FAQ

  • Empirical research on virtual coaching has found strong outcomes, including improved transfer of learning, clearer goal setting, and better follow-through (Wang & Wentling, 2001; Cornelius et al., 2009). Virtual coaching also differs from traditional face-to-face programs by offering added convenience, accessibility, rapid response to needs, affordability, access to resources, ongoing evaluation, and tailored support (Doolittle, 2022; Passmore et al., 2013).

    In practice, this offers a variety of benefits to you and your dog:

    • Virtual coaching can be just as effective as in-person programs — and sometimes even more so. With live video sessions and shared footage between meetings, I’m often able to see significantly more of your dog’s behavior than I would in a traditional in-person program. Technology also allows me to observe you and your dog in the real-life situations that matter most to you, like your home, your walks, your daily routines, etc., so our work is grounded in what’s actually happening day to day.

    • Many dogs learn more effectively at home, where they feel safe and comfortable. Without the added pressure of a new person in the space, dogs who are anxious, reactive, or easily overstimulated can focus better and make more meaningful progress. Virtual coaching also allows us to work without asking your dog to practice problem behaviors, keeping safety, wellbeing, and effectiveness at the center of the process.

    • This approach is designed to support your learning just as much as your dog’s, so you can better support your current dog and all your future dogs to come. Our work focuses on building your skills, understanding, and confidence so you can create lasting change. Ongoing guidance and support between live sessions helps you stay on track as you apply what you’re learning.

    • With the help of some simple tech equipment, virtual coaching is highly accessible and convenient. It removes barriers related to travel, location, and scheduling, and allows us to work together across time zones. All you need is a phone or computer with a camera and an internet connection. Some teams also find it helpful to have a tripod, wireless headphones, and a chest mount for your phone so you can bring me along on outings without tying up your hands. Effective separation anxiety training does require a camera that allows you to observe your dog remotely (like a Furbo or PetCube), but I’ll guide you through everything you need to make the setup simple and manageable.

  • I’m so glad you’re asking! Yes, dog training is an entirely unregulated field in North America, and titles like “dog trainer” and “behavior consultant” are not protected. That’s why it’s important to be cautious and informed when choosing a behavior professional.

    One helpful resource is the handout “How to Find a Qualified Trainer or Behavior Consultant” published by Fear Free®.

    Various industry organizations award titles through their certification, credentialing, and/or education programs. Here are the formal certifications/credentials I hold, with links to learn more. These reflect my knowledge, skill, and commitment to ethical, humane, and evidence-based behavior work.

  • I adhere to multiple professional codes of ethics and standards:

    My behavior change philosophy centers an animal's well-being when designing interventions. This includes evaluating an animal’s mental, physical, and emotional needs as described by Emily Strong and Allie Bender in their Pet Harmony Enrichment Framework (including but not limited to physical and mental health and veterinary care, hygiene, nutrition, physical exercise, sensory stimulation, safety, security, species-typical behaviors, foraging, social interaction, mental stimulation, calming, independence, and environment).

    Within this needs-based, well-being centered approach, antecedent arrangement and positive reinforcement are the primary procedures used in my operant conditioning plans - for more on procedure selection, see Dr. Susan Friedman’s Humane Hierarchy of Behavior-Change Procedures.

    I do not utilize intentionally aversive methods nor punishment based techniques, especially those involving pain, fear, or intimidation. I do not use shock nor prong collars in my training. I acknowledge that some prospective clients may already use shock devices, prong collars, and/or other aversive tools with their dogs. I approach these cases with compassion for both the human and the dog, with the goal of helping clients build new skills and transition away from these tools safely.

    For more information on reward-based training, please read this statement by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

  • For questions about your dog’s specific case, please book a consultation.

    For all other inquiries, including questions about my methods/ethics, service offerings, professional collaboration, and more, please contact me here.