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Serving Mid-Coast
Maine & surounding
areas
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207-354-6488
Marie
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~ Puppy manners ~ Basic Obedience ~
~ Problem solving ~
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***I have given up group classes to teach privately. I believe this gives you the BEST opportunity to learn in a more relaxing environment for both you and your dog.***
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MY STORY:
In 1992, after serving for 6 years in the United States Marine Corps, I decided to settle down in my hometown in Mid-Coast Maine. I got my first dog, (as a bona-fide adult) an akita, and joined the local kennel club. I also joined akita rescue and learned alot about the breed. In turn I began helping educate others. This taught me how important training is for ALL dogs. Thus began my (unofficial) foray into the world of dog training.
I worked for a few years at a local veterinarians office and then began working at our local humane society. While there I saw many dogs being given up for simple training issues. About that time the kennel club began looking for a new trainer to teach group obedience classes. I decided I might be able to handle that challenge once I had more official training of my own.
MY TRAINING:
I found an excellent trainer to mentor with and in October of 2001 after a year of hands on training and study, I completed my apprenticeship under Lloyd Williams of Bear Brook Kennels. During that apprenticeship, besides learning all the basics, I got to assist in the training of police dogs (in narcotics and tracking) and cadaver dogs with the medical examiners office. As well as learning how to train dogs, more important, I learned how to teach their owners how to handle them more appropriatly. I consider that training just a beginning in my education about dogs and their behavior. I continue to attend seminars and keep current through reading about recent advancements in dog training methods.
MY METHODS:
I use positive reinforcement methods whenever possible during training sessions. Positive reinforcement helps make the training experience more enjoyable for the dog and owner, producing a better learning environment. I also utilize hand signals in my training which is very useful with deaf dogs as well as hearing ones. Clickers are not used in my program.
MY GOALS:
My goal in training is to help pet owners develop a better relationship with their dogs. I also like to help dogs stay out of the shelters and in their homes whenever possible. Training for those unruly dogs can help make that a reality for some families.
MY FAMILY:
I am happily married and the mother of two. Aside from the dogs we also have one former shelter cat and one rescued mini-rex rabbit.
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MY CONTINUING EDUCATION:
6/06 "Understanding Canine Body Language"
with Trish King. Director of Behavior and Training at The Marin Humane Society.
4/06 "Aggression in Dogs" Protocols and Practical Management
Two day seminar by Brenda Aloff
10/05 Seminar given by Pia Silvani CPDT, CABC
Director of training and behavior at St. Huberts Animal Welfare Center
"Play with me!" The Good, the Bad, the Ugly? and
"Feisty Fidos" Why can't we all get along?
2005 Seminars given by Emily Weiss PHD
"Canine Communication" and
"Meet Your Match" with an introduction to "SAFER" Training
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This is our akita Jack at 18 months old.
For fun we are do tracking and he is progressing nicely.
He is our 3rd akita and he is a longcoat.
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FINDING A DOG TRAINER: You can start by checking this website:
Association of Pet Dog Trainers They list dog trainers for many areas that use positive reinforcement methods OR find out if the trainer has had any education beyond training their own dogs. While hands on training is helpful, it does not always mean they will be a good teacher for you and your dog. A good trainer should be able to answer your questions promptly and be able to explain the nuances of dog behavior. I am member #67555
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"Genki" and his dad Blaine practicing. Genki was one of my deaf students who did very well with my method of teaching that utilizes hand signals.
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MY TRAINING TREATS:
I use Solid Gold brand jerky type treats during training sessions. They break up nicely into smaller pieces which is very useful. Solid Gold is excellent quality and very appealing to most dogs. My supplier for treats and training tools is Critter Outfitter.
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Missy, our 6 year old french bulldog.
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Webpage last edited 3/06
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