BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING
FAQs
for Board & Train Programs
Do you use positive reinforcement methods?
Absolutely! I'm dedicated to humane dog training methods that can go by many different labels, including positive reinforcement, reward-based, force-free, fear-free, and aversive-free. This means I don't use equipment or techniques that rely on pain, fear, physical force, or intimidation. My approach aligns with the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's position statement on humane dog training here.
Will I still need to train my puppy or dog after a board & train program?
Yes. During a board & train program, I take care of the time-consuming task of teaching new behaviors so you don't have to start from scratch. You'll still need to practice with your puppy or dog to maintain those behaviors and to build on them at home. Ongoing management and training efforts in your own environment remain essential after any board & train program.
How far in advance do I need to book?
My board & train and boarding services typically book up a few months in advance, sometimes longer during holidays, summer travel season, and other peak times. Current availability for board & train and boarding stays is shown here. Assessments can only be scheduled on days I don't have a boarding guest staying in my home.
My goals aren't mentioned on your website. Is board & train a good fit for them?
Probably not. Board & train programs are only for teaching foundations for basic manners. The examples shown on the website are the most common foundational skills that are well-suited to board & train.
Most other goals usually aren't well-suited to a board & train program because they can be very context-specific and/or mainly involve interventions other than teaching a concrete skill. Reducing barking is an example of a goal that isn't well-suited to board & train.
My dog displays anxious, reactive, or aggressive behaviors. Is board & train a good fit?
No. Board & train programs are not for dogs who display anxious, reactive, or aggressive behaviors in any context. A behavior consultation is the appropriate service for those dogs.
My dog is nervous or shy around strangers. Is board & train a good fit?
Maybe. If your dog is slightly hesitant when meeting an unfamiliar person, but warms up after a couple minutes, a board & train program might work out. We'll decide together if it's a good fit during the boarding assessment.
If your dog is more fearful than that, a board & train program isn't a good fit. A behavior consultation is the appropriate service for those dogs.
How many dogs do you take at one time?
I only host one dog at a time. This includes dogs from the same household.
Is there a minimum age for puppies?
Yes. Puppies must be at least 10 weeks old at the start of the board & train program.
Do you accept newly adopted rescue dogs for board & train?
Yes. A newly adopted rescue dog must reside in your home for at least one month before requesting a board & train program.
Are there set times I need to drop off or pick up my dog?
Yes. We'll agree on the specific drop-off and pick-up times as part of booking the board & train program. The earliest drop-off time is 8am. The latest pick-up time is 5pm to allow time for the transfer session. The total fee includes both the drop-off day and pick-up day.
How do I get started?
To get started:
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Click on the "Check Dates" button to see if the dates you're interested in are available.
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Click on the "Request Form" button to open the request form for board & train.
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Answer each question thoroughly and submit.
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I will review your request thoroughly and be in touch by email within 3 business days Monday through Friday. If we proceed, you'll receive a booking link for the board & train assessment where you can view all scheduling availability in real-time. Don't forget to check your spam folder.
What if I need to reschedule the board & train assessment?
You may reschedule the board & train assessment by notifying me via email at least 7 days before the scheduled appointment. If you notify me with less than 7 days advance notice, or are not present at the scheduled time, the appointment is forfeited. Due to the nature of my boarding services and limited availability for board & train assessments, a new appointment may not be available for several weeks. All purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a board & train program?
At the time of booking, a 50% deposit payment is required to secure the specific days you book, and the remainder is due 7 days prior to the start of the program. Once a booking is made, those days aren't available to others for board & train or boarding, and my availability for other services is affected as well. If you cancel the booking or wish to reschedule the days, these payments are forfeited. All purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.