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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DOES THE BOARD AND TRAIN WORK?

Our Board and Train program is tailored to accommodate the unique needs of each dog and their owner's lifestyle. Your dog will be dropped off on a Monday and picked up every Friday, accompanied by a 1.5-hour lesson for the owner. Throughout the weekend, you will receive specific training instructions to practice at home or in various environments. This progressive program builds upon itself each week, aiming to guarantee sustained success throughout your dog's lifetime.

CAN I COME MEET YOU BEFORE I BRING MY DOG FOR A BOARD AND TRAIN?

Yes! Contact us for an appointment.

WHAT EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?

In 2015, I earned the prestigious title of Certified Master Trainer. In 2024, my dedication was recognized when I was honored with the Best Dog Trainer award by the Canadian Choice Awards. As the Head Trainer at a renowned facility in Kelowna, I designed and led the board and train programs with expertise and passion. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with hundreds of dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes. My skills extend to rehabilitating dogs facing a spectrum of behavioral challenges, from common issues to intricate and unique problems. Often serving as a beacon of hope for both dogs and their owners, I take immense pride in my ability to effect positive transformations in their lives.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

WHAT VACCINATIONS ARE REQUIRED?

Parvo, distemper, rabies and kennel cough. Proof of vaccines required before arrival date.

WILL MY DOG LISTEN TO ME AFTER YOU HAVE TRAINED THEM?

Certainly! Yes, you'll also be actively involved in training your dog! Every Friday, there will be a lesson for both you and your dog. We'll work together to ensure your continued success even after the board and train program ends. You'll apply what you've learned during each lesson by practicing specific homework assignments at home over the weekends.

DO YOU PROVIDE SUPPORT AFTER A BOARD AND TRAIN?

Absolutely, I will provide continued support for 3 months following a board and train. Support will be given over the phone or by email for anything that is easy to answer. If practical help is required we will make an appointment for in person training.

IS MY DOG TOO OLD TO BE TRAINED?

If your dog is physically capable to train, they aren't to old. The old adage "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" isn't about dogs at all. Training and rehabilitation is for dogs of all ages.

WHERE WILL MY DOG SLEEP?

Each dog has an assigned kennel with blankets to sleep in for the duration of their stay. Staying at my residence.

CAN I COME SEE MY DOG THROUGH OUT THEIR TRAINING WEEK?

There is always an exception to the rule i,e medical reasons etc, but typically the answer is no. Your dog is learning a new way of being while at Instinct to Heel, to keep this process as least confusing as possible, it's best to hold off until your lesson on Friday. There are typically video updates daily, and of course you are most welcome to call or email for any specific updates.

I LIVE IN THE LOWER MAINLAND. HOW CAN I TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR SERVICES?

A customized board and train program can be arranged. Contact us and we can options.

WILL MY DOG MISS ME?

Each Friday you will be greeted like you have been gone for months. Through out the week though your dog is either working or sleeping. We should have a separation anxiety class for owners :)

I WORK ON FRIDAY, CAN I COME TO MY LESSON ON SATURDAY?

No. All appointments are in business hours.

DO YOU RECOMMEND USING E-COLLAR TRAINING?

Absolutely. When utilized correctly, e-collar training proves to be both effective and efficient. It grants dogs a sense of freedom while offering owners peace of mind. As staunch advocates of e-collars, we firmly support them, having successfully trained over 500 dogs. Initially, some were young, but they quickly grasped the communication facilitated by the collar. This allowed them to partake in various activities such as family outings, camping, and hiking with ease. As advocates for the well-being of dogs, we stress the importance of using e-collars solely for foundational communication during training. With gentle pressure on the neck, dogs learn to respond through repetition, understanding how to relieve the pressure and who is directing the training. This method is always coupled with positive reinforcement. Witnessing the joy and excitement in dogs as they return for training sessions each Monday is a testament to their enjoyment of the process.

WHAT E-COLLAR DO YOU USE?

I prefer to use the Mini Educator made by e-collar technologies. I have found these to be the most reliable on the dog and the easiest to use for humans, The collar itself is water proof and has a range of 1/2 mile. E-collar technologies has a 2 year warranty for their e-collar products.

DO YOU PROVIDE E-COLLARS FOR THE BOARD AND TRAIN?

Yes, I purchase e-collars directly from e-collar technologies and have them on hand for my board and train clients.

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