If you are looking into having your dogs trained with Rachel, abosolutely do it! If I could give her more than 5 stars I would. I am beyond happy with Rachel's work with two of my dogs. Our consultation went extremely well as she really took the time to get to know both of my dogs through different exercises and with observing my handling of them. She was very professional, kind, and patient. She thoroughly explained what she observed, her training program via private lessons which lead to group classes once she deems them and I ready, and most importantly to me, she speaks with a very considerate and understanding demeanor during what can seem embarrassing and a hopeless situation. She also makes herself available to help with questions or concerns at all times so you know you will always have her support. I love my dogs and like to think of myself as a responsible dog owner, however if you'd seen my dogs on walks prior to training, you would think otherwise. My chiweenie mix was a rescue from Tijuana, Mexico, who is freakishly strong and used to pull on the leash during walks so hard that my arm would get so sore. He was also very reactive of other dogs and would growl, lunge and bark uncontrollably. I was so embarassed and disheartened that I gave up and stopped walking him. My other dog, another rescue through the local humane society that is a pomeranian/chihuahua mix, is a bundle of energy. She was perfect when we first adopted her, but after 3 months of her getting settled in, her real personality started to show. She was extremely aggressive and reactive toward other dogs. So much so that if she could not get to the other dogs, she would turn and bite me out of frustration. Again I had another dog I could barely control on walks.
Now, after finishing a few weeks of private training sessions, my dogs are such a pleasure to walk and are starting group sessions with OTHER DOGS. Yay! They are very responsive to commands and are so eager to please. Rachel used their strengths and worked on their flaws in a way that made it understandable and easy enough for me to continue the training on my own until each next session. I have a clear understanding of what I need to do as their owner which makes it easy for my dogs to understand what is expected of them. Now I can spend more time loving them instead of being frustrated with them. read more