K-9 Solutions Dog Training, Inc.: Continuing education

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Continuing education

One of the things I get excited about is attending seminars to keep learning about training and behavior. I feel like there is always something more to learn in this field. I don't care if you have been in the business for 5 years or 50, you can always learn more. Check out Ed Frawley, a training veteran of 50 plus years admitting even he learned something new recently in regards to Marker Training http://leerburg.com/markers.htm Something he admits to making fun of in the past. I look forward to seeing more of his stuff veer in the positive direction after his many years in the force method training camp.
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Side note: Yup force training works, I just prefer to go the non-confrontational and sometimes pain inducing route with my dogs whenever possible. I am not actually against all force training. But many people use it unfairly for the dog in my opinion. I started in force methods years ago so am technically now what they call a cross-over trainer since I switched techniques. When you know better you do better is the way I look at it. (P.S. Positive does NOT equal permissive.) His marker training video is awesome by the way and I can highly recommend it.
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I have a hard time understanding why any trainer wouldn't pursue their continuing education. Learning more helps make you a better trainer. The more you know the easier your job becomes. Plus it is always good to get together with your peers to trade feedback on cases.
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There are some seminars I can't attend due to timing, cost, travel issues or for personal reasons but I try to make any that come anywhere near me whenever possible. I can't always make it happen however. I am going to miss a spectacular one in Boston coming up with Dr. Ian Dunbar and Dr. Nicholas Dodman due to a combination of timing with my husbands winter job and a sick dog. http://www.jamesandkenneth.com/store/show/EBT-001 I placate myself by trying not to think about it. (But pass the info on!!)
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Fortunately I found this gem in an ad seen in the local dog newspaper: Downeast Dog News. I am very excited that not only is it a fun seminar that will apply to clients dogs too, I can participate hands on with one of my dogs AND it is local to me. No long distance travel time necessary this time. Score one for me!

Yes I have her book already in my library. FMI on Dee Ganley: http://www.deesdogs.com/
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I'll most likely take Jenny as she is my high maintenance dog that could really use the work. She is also the one I need to mentally challenge more. I'll be sure to try to nab some photos to share during the workshop.
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P.S. Hey check out my new "search this blog" gadget on the top right of the page. I am WAY excited about this. Now finding past posts on other topics has become so much easier. Enjoy!!

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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, in addition to learning all the basics, I got to assist in the training of police dogs in narcotics, tracking and cadaver dogs with the medical examiners office.

Not only did I learn how to be a dog trainer, more importantly, I learned how to teach owners how they could communicate more effectively with their dogs. I consider that training just the beginning in my canine education. I continue to attend seminars and keep current through reading about recent advancements in dog training methods. I am a former member of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

My training was sponsored by The Humane Society of Knox County and The Mid-Coast Kennel Club of Maine.

MY METHODS:

I use positive reinforcement methods whenever possible during training sessions. Positive reinforcement helps make the training experience more enjoyable for both 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. My methods include lure/reward and marker training. (with or without a clicker depending on owner preference)

MY GOALS:

My goal in training is to help pet owners develop a better relationship with their dogs. Many times that includes teaching about canine communication and behavior. I also like to help dogs stay out of the shelters and in their homes whenever possible. Training for those unruly dogs can make that a reality for some families.

MY OTHER JOBS:

I am currently the trainer for the HSKC's K-9 Corrections program. I also work as a receptionist at a local veterinary hospital.

MY FAMILY:

I am happily married and the mother of two fabulous children.

Dog Training and Behavior Seminars Attended

11-09 Self Control and Focus Games with Dee Ganley CPDT/CABC/CDBC
6-09 Dog to Dog Aggression with Patricia McConnell PhD
7-08 Debunking the Dominance Myth in Training with Jean Donaldson
6-08 PitBull Education Seminar with Drayton Michaels
3-08 Aggression and Canine Compulsion Disorders with Dr. Nicholas Dodman
4-07 How to Talk Dog with Sarah Kalnajs
6-06 Understanding Canine Body Language with Trish King
4-06 Aggression in Dogs 2 Day Seminar with Brenda Aloff
10-05 Play with Me and Feisty Fidos with Pia Silvani CPDT,CABC
2005 Canine Communication, Meet your Match and and Intro to "Safer" Training with Emily Weiss PhD