Here you can find a random selection of questions which Aimee has been asked over the years about our animal training services.
What happens during the initial consultation?
The initial consultation lasts for 90 minutes. It involves a discussion of the problems you might be facing, how to address them and how to prevent other problems occurring. We will also cover basic body language such as how to recognise stress in your pet. As well as discussions, there is a fair amount of observations made by myself, of your interactions with you pet, the environment, and your pets general body language and behaviour whilst I am present.
Are there any additional costs associated with your training?
My pricing structure is very clear, but you may need to spend extra money on items such as toys, calming medication, vet checks, feeding puzzles etc. I can recommend which specific ones to get.
Do I work with rescue pet?
Yes, I do. I am very happy to help troubled souls if I can. I give a discount rate for rescues, those prices don’t apply to adopted furry friends.
What training methods and behaviour modification techniques do you use?
All methods applied are part of my positivity approach and focus on rewards. Rewarding the pet for getting it right, or changing his or her response to things (making him feel better about scary things). This involves the use of food, toys, praise, play or whatever the pet most enjoys.
Who should be involved in the training?
Anyone who has contact with the pet during its daily routine. Parents, children (depending on age), nannies, helpers, drivers, the next door neighbour who pops in on the pet over the holidays.
What is the difference between a trainer and a behaviourist?
Within the UAE, and indeed most of the world, not a lot. Anyone can call themselves a pet trainer or a behaviourist with no prior experience or knowledge. In other parts of the world, a trainer deals with training such as obedience work and a behaviourist deals with behaviour issues such as aggression, but the reality is many trainers and behaviourists cross over. The term behaviourist should indicate a higher level of education, and an in depth knowledge of pet behaviour and body language. Learn more about me, my qualifications, education and experience which are strong reasons you can trust me with your pet.
Will you take my pet and train it for me?
No. I will coach and guide you to work with and train your pet yourself. This is the most effective way to see long term behaviour changes.
What do you do if the pet gets it wrong?
Withhold the reward and then look at why the pet went wrong in the first place. Have we moved too fast with the training? Is the pet stressed, over tired, feeling unwell? How has the handler gone wrong causing the error?
Do I have to use a clicker?
Not if you are not comfortable with it. The use of a clicker depends on what we are helping the pet to learn, but it is often not essential.
I want to train my dog for protection work, can you do this?
In theory yes, in reality, no I will not. Protection dogs need a special set of characteristics to be able to work safely and happily as protection dogs. They require an excellent temperament, need to be well socialised to the world, friendly with people, and be keen to work.