Assessment
All training programs start with an Assessment. This appointment allows me to get to know you and your dog, and put together an individualized training plan. You'll receive plenty of information, including a prognosis for how much training your dog will need, and get started with the first steps toward your goals.
How It Works
The Assessment lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, and costs $190.
For clients in my service area, we will meet in your home. For clients outside my service area, you will come to my home in Vacaville. We can also meet via video to facilitate social distancing, or for dogs who are very fearful or aggressive.
We’ll start by going over your dog’s full history, what you’re struggling with, and what your goals are. I will then put together a training plan and go over it with you. Time allowing, we’ll start on the first steps of training your dog.
Some behavioral issues only require this one appointment. For example, a potty-training plan can be drawn up quickly, and then it's up to the family members to implement it. For most issues, however, continued training guidance is necessary via Private Lessons.
After our appointment, you will receive an email with links to articles and videos to help you understand and implement the training plan.
I do all of my scheduling and client paperwork online. You can use the links above and below to schedule an appointment and sign up for the client portal.
Preparing for the Assessment
After you schedule your assessment, you will need to create an account in my client portal. I use this for contact info, contracts, and billing. After you sign up, go to the Dogs tab and then create a profile for your dog, as well. If you have more than one dog, please create a profile for each one (use the small red "Add Dog" link toward the right).
You will receive an invoice for the assessment within 24 hours. (I have to push it manually, so it won’t be immediate.) I require payment (PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or check by mail) up front to confirm your appointment.
If it is safe to do so, please record a video with an example of your dog’s unwanted behavior. DO NOT intentionally provoke your dog to attack or bite. We will review any videos together during our appointment.
If you fear that your dog might bite a stranger at the door, or has ever bitten a person in the past, your dog must be secured away from the front door before I arrive. We will discuss how to facilitate a safe introduction during the appointment.