Because we are committed to training dogs using only progressive, science based training methods, we are only accepting clients whose viewpoint is in alignment with ours. We are aware that despite all of the scientific information available on how animals learn, there are still many different methods used on dogs today including methods that employ physical punishment, intimidation and other traditional methods and pieces of equipment. However, we do not recommend those methods nor do we use them with our own dogs and we will not work with clients who choose to use those methods with their dogs. If you choose to use those methods with your dog then we are not the best match for you and will not be able to meet your needs because these methods go against our core philosophy and belief system.

 

We can promise to provide our clients with humane care of their dogs, training methods that will strengthen the relationship and bond you have with your dog, patience and understanding towards both the client and their dog and honesty in what we see as the best possible plan for your dog. In exchange, we ask for the following:

 

•That our clients commit to using science based, positive reinforcement based training that does not include physical punishment or intimidation. This includes jerking, leash “correcting” and intimidation techniques.

 

•That our clients use equipment that is non aversive, humane and dog friendly.

 

•That our clients always put their dog’s well being before winning.

 

•That our clients spend the time training their dog and getting them ready for the ring before entering them in shows.

 

•That clients with fearful dogs take the time to teach the dog to be comfortable at dog shows before entering them in shows.

 

Our goal and focus is to make dog shows a good place for dogs. We want to see people win in the ring while still making sure that their dog’s needs are being met. We strongly believe that the focus should be on the dog and that less emphasis should be put on winning, particularly when the concern for the dog’s well being becomes secondary to a win. Winning and finishing our dogs is, of course, what we all hope to do, but we should be enjoying the journey and viewing it as a partnership with our dogs to get there. We understand that our view on dog shows may not be the norm, but we hope to change things so that dogs can enjoy dog shows as much as we do.

 

If you agree with these statements, we can look forward to working together.

 

Thank you.