We took our Bluetick for help with leash pulling and reactivity. Unfortunately, this experience raised serious concerns about training quality, communication, and our dog's overall well-being.
At the initial consultation, we were instructed to bring our dog into a room where two large dogs were tethered on place and another was confined in a kennel. Immediately upon entering, our dog became so frightened that she defecated on the floor. We expressed concern that the presence of the dogs was overwhelming her. Only then were the dogs removed, and Jason commented that he could tell she was scared based on her body language. This made it clear how much confidence-building she truly needed.
The consultation itself felt more like an interrogation than a collaborative discussion. The questioning style felt accusatory rather than supportive.
We were initially interested in a board-and-train program, but Jason convinced us to do day training so we could "learn alongside her," despite us explaining that we had a 16-day international trip planned. He proposed a hybrid program: day training twice per week leading up to our trip, followed by board-and-train while we were out of the country.
Day training consisted of morning drop-offs and evening pick-ups. At pick-up, Jason spent no more than about 10 minutes reviewing what was worked on. For example, leash corrections were demonstrated once, we return-demonstrated, and that was the extent of the instruction. Some days, the only progress update was that she ran on a treadmill, which does not address leash manners, reactivity, or confidence-building. After many sessions, our dog would immediately drink an entire 32 oz cup of water in the car, which felt unusual.
There were also scheduling issues. One training day was canceled due to a prior commitment, and a proposed alternative plan was never followed up on.
During the second week of training, our dog developed severe diarrhea that progressed to bloody stool, requiring a vet visit. There was no change in her diet; the only difference was the treats being used during training. The vet diagnosed colon inflammation and prescribed probiotics. Despite repeated claims that her confidence was improving, her behavior suggested otherwise. She resisted drop-offs, had to be dragged out of the car, and began shaking uncontrollably during car rides--completely out of character for a dog who previously loved car rides and warmed up quickly to people.
We were never offered a tour of the full facility.
During the board-and-train portion, we clearly requested regular updates with texts, photos, or videos. We received no communication until we reached out after four days, at which point we received a two-sentence text. We then heard nothing for another six days. A promised video was never sent.
Pickup coordination was disorganized and concerning. Jason was out of state when we returned and unavailable to release our dog. Communication was delayed, and when we arrived for pickup, our dog was being bathed, raising concerns about her overnight conditions. He also mentioned running her through his neighborhood, which again did not address her behavioral needs.
Once home, our dog drank an unusually large amount of water and appeared underweight. Shortly after, she developed thick yellow vaginal discharge and required another vet visit. Testing was negative for infection, but the vet diagnosed vaginosis and prescribed probiotics. Based on vet records, she lost a considerable amount of weight during training and appeared visibly emaciated.
Because the training was not completed and we were forfeiting the "lifetime guarantee," we requested a 25% refund. This request and our concerns were never acknowledged. We are still making payments through Affirm. After discussing everything with our veterinarian, we were advised not to return. This experience was heartbreaking and deeply disappointing. We strongly urge others to ask detailed questions, request a full facility tour, and carefully consider before trusting The Spot 4 Dogs with their dog. read more
