Gayle holds an advanced Veterinary Technician Specialist certification in behavior and has earned multiple credentials in animal training. Visit our about us page to learn more.

Pet training is a non-regulated business, meaning there are no requirements, education or certification necessary. Please do your due diligence to be an advocate for your pet when choosing a trainer.

AVSAB position statement How to choose a trainer

Simply, the pet is rewarded for performing the behavior we want. A reward (something the pet loves) when timed properly will reinforce the behavior just performed. Reinforced behavior gets repeated. Commonly we utilize clicker training for effective and efficient training.

Using reward based training to teach new behaviors or modify undesirable ones creates the most successful learning environment for your pet and eliminates the need to use fear, force, pain or intimidation.

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior Position Statement on Humane Dog Training

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior Position Statement on the Use of Dominance Theory in Behavior Modification of Animals

Pet Professional Guild Position Statement on the Use of Shock in Animal Training

The principle of clicker training is straightforward: you use a small device called a clicker that makes a distinct ‘click’ sound. You press it at the exact moment your pet performs the desired behavior, then immediately follow with something your pet enjoys, such as a treat or a toy. Your pet quickly learns that “click = treat” and begins to associate the behavior they were doing at the time of the click with the reward. This reinforcement makes the behavior more likely to be repeated.

Clicker Training Benefits:

• Effective and efficient
• Based on the science of how animals learn
• Strengthens bond with pet
• Long term retention of behavior
• Promotes thinking and creativity in your pet
• Creates pets that love to learn
• Mistakes are okay
• It is FUN!

Visit www.clickertraining.com for additional information.

Time expected to practice new behaviors with your pet is 5-10 minute sessions one to two times a day. However your pet is always learning so we will help you identify opportunities to incorporate training during your daily life. 

Training is a process and changing behavior takes time. The pace of progress is truly dictated by your pet’s responses and comfort level, as well as other factors such as their health, stress level, past learning experiences, the environment, and the consistency you bring to your pet’s learning journey.
Learning new skills and coping strategies is a dynamic process, so staying in frequent communication with us throughout your coaching program allows for timely adjustments to keep you and your pet on track toward your goals.

There are many factors contributing to behavior including but not limited to genetics, socialization, learning experiences, and environmental factors. For these reasons, it would be unethical for me or anyone to guarantee the outcome of your pet’s behavior.

Yes, we offer interactive presentations for small groups including pet professionals and shelter/rescue/fosters. Learning is for humans only but special appearances by your pets are encouraged when meetings are virtual!

Topics can be customized for your specific pet behavior or training needs.