I'm Cait! I've been working with dogs for 20 years now! I have big goals of helping people understand scientific based methods and the benefits of doing so. I have not always been a solely R+ trainer, and I believe my honest was and ability to have open conversations about this has opened a lot of doors to help bridge the misunderstanding of what R+ is and the types of dogs it will work for. I love tackling the misconception that R+ won't work for specific behaviors or breeds. As owner and head trainer at Good Dog Enrichment and Training I love getting to work with a variety of clients and strive to help them meet all their dogs needs and strengthening the bond they have with their dog.
Certifications:
CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified, CGC, Currently studying for PhD in veterinary medicine and behavioral health, working on obtaining CBCC-KA
Dog training services include
Aggressive dog training
Protection/guard dog training
Deaf dog training
Reactive dog training
Service dog training
Agility training
Herding training
In home training
Off leash training
Puppy training
More info about Cait Patton's dog training:
I specialize in utilizing R+ training methods specifically in behavior modification as well as traditional obedience training. I am known for my work with reactive, aggressive, and fearful pups utilizing only R+ techniques. I work with dogs to help learn how to properly play and interact with other dogs. I also teach a variety of dog sport and advanced training skills using only R+. My business (Good Dog Enrichment and Training) is uniquely known for our wide array of services in day training, private lessons, in homes, and classes. In addition, I volunteer 15 hours a week in a partnership with CARE STL working with their long timers to help them get adopted.
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity and aggression to both people and dogs is my primary focus. I work on helping educate people in understanding core behaviors, not just what they consider problematic. I then strategically work with their vets to create a comprehensive behavioral plan. I teach reactive dog classes as well to further help people understand their reactive/aggressive dog. I only utilize R+ techniques to do so!
Dog training methods:
We always start with a consultation to ensure the dog lands in the right program (day training, private lessons, in homes, or classes). Depending on the severity of the issue, we partner with the dog's vet to create a collaborative approach. During our first meeting, we identify short term and long terms goals of the owner and help outline a structured behavioral plan which is both realistic for the owner and beneficial for the dog.
Why I became a dog trainer:
I grew up at a dog boarding and training facility! I got my first real job working with dogs by obtaining a workers permit at age 15 and I've worked with dogs full time ever since! I ventured into dog training specifically after my stepdad was diagnosed with cancer and was in need of a service dog. I trained my GSD to aid him in mobility and medicalalert. After that I became interested in behavior modification and after a few years working in the balanced realm, began to phase out adversives completely before working intensely with a behaviorist to better understand scientific based techniques and their role in rehabilitating behavioral cases. Immediately after that work, I made the switch to R+ and haven't looked back!
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
Seeing the dog and their human thrive together. So many people want to have such a strong bond with their dog but struggle to understand how to accomplish that. I also love working with dogs at the shelter and tackling behaviors that might keep them from finding a forever home. With the partnership with our local animal shelter CARE STL, We started a program called Rescue Me. It targets specific dogs who have been at the shelter for longer stays. We've been able to successfully train, and home some of the shelters longest stay residents!
My #1 dog training tip:
Look at things from the dogs point of view! When we slow down to think what they might be thinking or what is causing them to behave a certain way, it greatly impacts our understanding of the specific dog and how we can adjust our training to benefit them!
David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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