Behavior and Training Service

Hi Jeanie!

Hope you are enjoying spring. We're really starting to, as Bering is well into his rehab and doing quite well. He's been racing around the yard at full sled-dog speed and loving every minute of it. Next will be launching in the air more to strengthen his haunches, but that waits until after next week's final x-ray.
Since you know his challenges, I just had to share a major success:
This a.m., while walking down my street, a neighbor across the way was having some work done on her porch. Just as we passed by, a jackhammer started. It was really really loud and surprised me. Bering did a little jump, but immediately LOOKED AT ME and sat down, ears twitching all over the place!!! Luckily, the yummy stinky treats were in my hand so I started rewarding his "good quiet". He actually turned his body to sit and FACE THE SOUND. I let him, and quietly rewarded him whenever it made noise and when he looked at me. After about 2 minutes he got up, went around behind me and SAT DOWN AT MY SIDE as if to say, "ok, I'm done with that, let's move on". I was floored, but thrilled. Especially after my continued work to get him to tolerate trains going by.
It all came together. The rewards, the timing, and all the practice all made it work and I'm so happy.
Thank you. Your training has allowed me to enjoy and appreciate time outside with my Bering even under less than ideal conditions!
We can't wait to see you for the Special Invite Adventure class. I'm really looking forward to challenging him and this will be a great way to do it.

With deepest appreciation,

Tammy Gibson

"Jean Tomaselli's business card is the first one I reach for when recommending a trainer for new puppies or dogs with behavioral issues. I believe that the Gentle Leader is the most humane and useful training device for dogs and Jean is the only local trainer I know of who routinely uses it. By advocating positive reinforcement rather than punishment, she teaches her clients how to train their pets effectively and with compassion. I recommend her not only because I agree with her training philosophy, but also because I have received enthusiastic feedback from my clients and coworkers alike."