Freida & Bebe
"We have two labradors age 6 years and 2y 9mths that joined our family as adults. They are quite different dogs in personality despite being the same breed. The older one is quieter and anxious. The younger one is energetic and high arousal.
Together, they are very difficult for one person to take out. We hoped that training could help the 6 year old to be more comfortable around new situations and people, enabling us to go places for her to enjoy. With the 2 year old, we hoped that we could stop her lunging at exciting things, reduce her arousal in situations and generally improve her listening skills. When excited, nothing else mattered, including food.
Sarah has helped us so much. With endless patience the 6 year old loves her instead of being scared, is very happy to wander through groups of people, other dogs etc without getting upset or fearful. Walking her is easy with a loose leash and she responds to a range of words. This was achieved without any force, just gentle encouragement. And time.
With our younger dog, Sarah has taught me ways of picking up on her arousal levels before they have become a problem. When we have problems or fail to make progress, Sarah listens non judgementally and offers solutions. Often Sarah will contact me later after she has thought about it and sends links to videos/ info to help us learn. I have learnt what helps our younger dog calm herself down. I can now take her for walks without being pulled over and we can enjoy going places. We are still on a learning journey, but we have made so much progress. Sarah’s feedback is encouraging, positive and helpful.
There are many things I love about working with Sarah. She relates so well to our dogs, they love her. I can be honest about what is happening knowing that Sarah will help find solutions rather than being frustrated with us. Sarah is always thinking how best to achieve our goals.
We already loved our dogs, but they are even more loveable now when we can all work together. I would recommend without reservation Canine.NZ to other dog owners. The difference the training has made to our family is amazing."
-Christine
