HOME VISITS
A home visit is a special time both for you, the owner, and your pet. But it’s also special for me too. When you ring me looking for a home visit, I will chat to you to get some idea of your difficulties. I’ll ask you questions and look for some background information. That gives me a ‘handle’ on what could be the problem. Before I even get to you, I will research the breed characteristics, while also bearing in mind that every dog’s character is unique and family dynamics also play a big part in a pet's behaviour. I will then have an idea of whether the problem behaviour is possibly a result of breed trait, completely out of character, or even an influence from something that happened in the dog’s past or something totally different. Then I’ll consider about how you delivered the details and information as it could give me an insight into what might be going on between your dog and you. Often it’s a case of miscommunication. Either an owner is asking for something but his/her body language is requesting something completely different. Or an owner’s expectations are too high and the dog does not understand what is required. In many instances I’ll decide to bring my essential oils to allow your dog to choose whichever one he might need. The oils give a pointer to what’s going on in the dog’s mind, whether emotionally, psychologically or behaviourally. For example, after getting background information, it may emerge that the dog has had a fright as a puppy and is fearful of other dogs or certain situations. When the dog picks out the oils, there is generally a theme running through his choices. In the above example, it will probably be oils for fear, insecurity, hysteria, losing the plot. So the dog knows exactly what he needs to heal. I enjoy the home visits because they are one-to-one and very focused. I love meeting the different dogs and solving their problems but I’m as interested in you, the owners, who are doing your best for your dogs but something has gone awry. Often the only thing needed is to help you change your approach. I only use positive reinforcement methods. My philosophy is based on establishing a relationship of mutual respect. I bring my vast experience to each of you and your dogs but I also understand that although I have ‘tools’ in my kit to apply to the problem, each problem with a dog is different and I view it in that specific light. When I’m with you, I will demonstrate what I want the dog to do, where applicable. I will make suggestions on diet, routine, etc., which may be helpful. After the visit, I email you a detailed report of my recommendations and advice plus any extra training tips. I stay for as long as necessary and my quoted fee doesn’t alter. You can call me at any time after the visit if you need more help or support. That’s inclusive in my fee for the service. I find that a home visit is almost always the best method to achieve a result. Yes, it's easy to download advice from the internet, but, in my opinion, there's absolutely nothing to beat the 'hands-on' approach and a follow-up service. P.S. If you're experiencing difficulties with your dog because your circumstances have changed, then give me a call before you decide you need to surrender your dog to a rescue centre. You may be going back to work and have no idea what to do with your canine companion in your absence. Or you may be having problems because during lockdown you gave your dog 'free run' in all sorts of ways. Those sorts of things may well be solved with some assistance. So don't lose heart! Call me instead to help you find a solution. 086-3991599 ZOOM CONFERENCES I'm going to keep going with Zoom conferences for those of you who are either too far away from me or would simply prefer them. Canine behavioural problems don't just go away, and, probably, are getting worse as we live literally cheek by jowl day in and out! So if a meeting on Zoom seems like the answer to you, get in touch with me to arrange something. 086-3991599 |