Monica Allaire-McMahon

KPA-CTP, DDP-Dynamic Dog Practitioner , International Nordic Dog Trainer

Dynamic Dog Assessments-detailed assessment of gait, conformation, functional movement highlighting areas of abnormality, complied into detailed report to clients veterinarian to liaise between client and veterinarian and seek diagnostics to aid in determining the influence pain/discomfort contributes to problematic behavior. Teaching Canine communication , ( calming signals)and teaching clients how to use their own body language to support the relationship with their dog. Hosting multi sensory environment sessions( Sensory Explorers) to allow both client and dog to experience movement toward the parasympathetic nervous system ( rest digest) through quiet exploration and sensory integration. Teaching about appropriate exercise, slow sniffing walks( the dangers of ball throwing). Advising environmental( appropriate housing- changes in the home -avoiding slippery flooring , stairs, scents etc. advising on properly fitted harnesses( H or Y shape)and use of longlines -to support free movement of the dog-all with an eye toward the dogs natural ethogram. Teaching loose leash( smiling leash skills) , social skills between dogs utilizing parallel walking, recall, and sniffer games. Teaching clients how to design and utilize enriched environments in and around their home and more. I'll try to sum up-building safe and secure relationships between dog and human carer, while lowering stress with a keen eye on physical safety, mental and emotional wellbeing, and finding solutions to behavioral concerns by discovering and addressing the WHYS.

Fear, aggression, anxiety, chronic stress, which most often have a correlation to physical pain or discomfort, unmet needs-physical, emotional, social, mental(insecure attachment), sensory, misunderstanding of canine communication, inappropriate home environment, fast living etc.

An initial consultation takes place in a secure enriched environment away from the clients home , with complete history taking and very detailed observations of the dog and human client-2-3 hrs in length. The last 1/4 of consultation includes 1 or 2 practical exercises which are explained, demonstrated , and then practiced by the client( the client has a need to feel they have success at a simple exercise ( treats maybe used, communicating through body language, absolutely no method or equipment that would harm the dog physically, mentally or emotionally ) to begin to shift their mindset and see that their dog can also be successful at something. The consultation ends with a simple puzzle homework handout with recommendations which may include making a simple change in the home, or equipment, seeking advice of a vet, change in exercise etc. A follow up apt is scheduled at the end of consultation. As an addition, As an associate member of the PDTE-I have undergone a rigorous application process and am held to the highest standards of ethics. We value dogs as sentient beings entrusted to our care and pledge to follow the dogs natural ethogram and honor their unique individually, never causing emotional, physical , social or mental pain or distress

To improve the welfare and wellbeing of dogs and the humans they share their lives with

Being able to share in the joy( maybe a bit of surprise) and pride caretakers express as their relationships with their dogs flourish and challenges reduce

Learn to observe, observe to learn