"Thank you SO much. The training has helped with Boon's boredom, he is more attentive to us and he walks VERY well now.  And what we've learned has helped us with all of our dogs."

~ Melisa Mullins with Boon

"We had some behavioral issues that we brought into class. Sue was very helpful in offering advice and training me to think and see things as the dog does. Josie is getting more confident and has become a very workable partner in the training exercises. She very much enjoys her training time and learning how to please...which just breeds her confidence."

~Chris Skotzke with Josie
 

"The trainers made everything seem so easy and common sense.  For someone who has never had a dog, this training experience was eye opening.  We made many mistakes along the way, but the trainer was always there for us with recommendations for improvement, never making me feel bad for not getting it quickly."

~Karen Gard with Rex

"What I liked most about this class is that you are learning the tools needed to train other behaviors in the future. It wasn't a "here your dog is better" kind of class, it is learning how to teach behavior, which is what makes the class effective."

~Matt Grabow and Bubba

"It’s always good to take classes from the different instructors. This was the first class I took with Sue and I found it very helpful and appreciated the attention to the finite nuances in training. I often find with a new instructor they might emphasize something I kind of  glossed over in an earlier class. It will suddenly click with me!"

~Susan Dodd with Breeze

 "We already did the Intermediate  class with both of our dogs Molly and Misty. Wasn't such a good idea to take them both to the same class. Molly was doing great but our Misty had a lot of problems. We got all the help from Sue and her team and at the end of the class she was doing a little bit better. But we needed more help with Misty and so we decided that we take the Intermediate  class again only with Misty. She was doing so much better than the first time and Sue could help us with other problems we had. We still have a lot of work ahead but know we  have a better understanding what to do and can work on it.

Heidi Fuenfer with Misty

 "This is the third class I've taken thru Trainers Academy and I have nothing but praise. I've taken class with Lisa and Devene and they are both wonderful and it's obvious they love what they do. Thanks for teaching me how to train this smart little puppy of mine!"

Jennie Lynn & Ellie

"We had a rough start with Zorro...he chewed a hole in our brand new furniture! But since we completed our class, the change in Zorro, and in me is remarkable. I learned what I was doing wrong, and how to get the behavior from my dog that we wanted. If I hadn't gone through this class I'm pretty sure we would have had more and more trouble, and may not still have him. We have a great bond with Zorro now. He wants to please and he is so smart, but I just didn't know how to connect with him. Thank you so much for helping us!"

~Sheri Daniels with Zorro

"Sasha is much calmer around other dogs, knows her cues and is improving on following them with distractions. Today she went to the groomer. she loves the people there and greets them enthusiastically but the difference this time was all four paws were on the floor, it was noticeable. I liked having the opportunity to practice while the trainer or coaches were observing and giving feedback."

~ Krista Bajoka with Sasha

Alice

"Hi!

We left yesterday, with Alice, for an adventure to Puerto Rico.

Since we left yesterday to now, there have been so many firsts for our puppy...2 commercial airline flights (staying calmly in her 'den' under the seat in front of me), a flight on an 8 person jet (this she did not enjoy...but was a real trooper) and lunch at an open aired restaurant, where she laid next to my chair until released....even the stray dog on the street didn't distract her.

Alice has been a star....and much of it due to the motivation we learned by taking your class!  We've all seen those well behaved dogs walking nicely on city streets, laying next to their people at open aired restaurants, greeting strangers calmly, etc.  I never dreamed it would be our Alice!

We have so much work to do....but, the work we've done so far and the training that you've taught us has made this trip possible.

Warm Regards, 

Vito

"This was the best experience I have had with a dog training center. I have already recommended it to several friends. I received the recommendation from my veterinarian and know that the staff has also attended the classes."

~ Michele Dinello with Vito

Bella

"Trainers Academy intermediate class helped the me with the transition period shortly after Bella was adopted. I am confident it helped make this period of time a positive experience for all."

~ Kristie Betts with Bella

Breeze

"I love the theory behind it, and really enjoy that dogs become willing and excited to do certain ‘signals’ and excited to learn and focus on you. I also always appreciate Lisa’s attitude as people are learning and making mistakes. I’ve found many trainers over the years can be very condescending with the imperfections of people and their dogs and Lisa always meets them where they are at, offers sound solutions and encourages them. If you do that, people want to come back and learn. I spent some time in the 90’s involved in training and it was before the positive reinforcement concept was more popular, so it was some correction based training back then. Having experienced that, I know nothing compares to Positive Reinforcement/Clicker training in how dogs learn, nothing teaches more about understanding dog behavior and what motivates them, and I’m so glad Breeze and I have been having fun with this over his lifetime."

~ Susan Dodd with Breeze

"My 9 month old beagle really took to the class.  I learned correct and incorrect ways of training which made it so much easier when I learned the methods taught in class.  The clicker method I like and by far it is very effective with my pup.  My dog gets so excited to come to class its so cute to see her so anxious to get out of the car and begin class.  Class was a wonderful experience for both of us and I have a foundation to build on for her continued training.  Thank You!"

~ Lorraine Yoskovich with Brinkley

Rocket

"I can't say enough good things about Trainer's Academy. Greg and I have been impressed since day one of the Puppy Primer Package. We had an amazing and rewarding experience in intermediate class and we learned so many new techniques to better handle some of Rocket's difficult behaviors. It was so fun to see Rocket learn and progress as the weeks went on. Rocket absolutely LOVES coming to Trainer's Academy and we are so happy to be a part of this wonderful program. Thank you for loving our pup and thanks for all of your help and knowledge!!"

~ Gina & Greg Kent with Rocket

Kiley

"As first time dog/puppy owners my husband and I learned quickly the lack of knowledge we had about raising a happy, healthy and well-trained dog. This class made us feel confident and in control of being dog-owners. The instructor as well as the volunteers thoroughly answered all and any of our question, be they in class or calling on the phone. Their enthusiasm and knowledge surrounding the dog world was incredible. We can't wait for intermediate class!"

~ Justin & Laura Lyons with Kiley

Winnie

"Loved the puppy class.  It helped Winnie and I build a bond that otherwise would not have happened. Love the positivity of the class. Even when I started feeling frustrated, the positive reinforcement helped me!! Keep up the good work, we are looking forward to the Intermediate Class."

~ Ellen Marshall with Winnie

Muggsy & Tucker 

"I just want to thank everyone at Trainers Academy, from the instructors, volunteer instructors, and daycare crew. What a dedicated, caring group of people.  Thanks so much for the miraculous change in our boys, Muggsy & Tucker.  It was a little bit of a drive from Macomb Township and it was a commitment on my part to bring the boys in separately for Training and Daycare.  But I thank you for telling me that it would be better for my boys to train separately, so they could become more independent. I have tried other Training facilities, but none compare to Trainers Academy. Thanks again!"

~ Ann Mahoney with Muggsy & Tucker

Lando

"I received great instruction and saw results.  I really felt like Lisa cared about how I was doing with my dog and really wanted us to succeed.  She was available for answering questions and giving additional help.  I look forward to more classes in the future and we can hopefully get our Good Citizen certification."

~ Patsy Hogan with Lando

"The support from the volunteers and Coach early on in the course developed the confidence I needed to ensure continued improvement with my highly reactive dog.  I look forward to continuing our education with Trainer’s Academy to make our dogs the best and happiest they can be."

~ Doris Van Milligan with Dale

Kilty

"Before we attended Trainer's, we were thinking about giving Kilty up. She was "aggressive" toward family dogs. She was unpredictable around people. She's now 7 months old and we are so happy with her progress. Her behaviour is dramatically improved. She loves daycare and loved attending obedience class. We appreciate the guidance, advice and tools to help Kilty become a "good" dog. Thank you."

~ Angela Stringfield with Kilty

Cooper

"The intermediate class was very good. I have been through other training programs and find Trainers Academy to be much better in many ways. It was much more positive and encouraging. I would have liked to take Cooper through their puppy class, but we didn't adopt him as a pup. Cooper's only complaint is that he never got to sniff any of the other dogs. He'll get to do some sniffing in day care which we are going to try out. Thanks for a good experience."

~ Joyce Karner with Cooper

Luna

"I drove a long way to take the class at Woofology. I could've taken a number of classes that were offered 5 minutes from my home. I knew after the first class that I had made the right decision. The instructor and training staff had many years of experience and they were very well versed in dog behavior. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the classes to anyone who is willing to make the effort to get to the best training for their dog."

~ Patti Tapper and Luna

Ayla

"I thoroughly enjoyed my Puppy and Intermediate classes at Trainer's academy and do recommend them to everyone I know with a new dog. The thoughtfulness of the curriculum is fabulous in addressing problems people encounter with their new pups, as well as helping you to fix existing problems with your adult dog. I know the relationship I have with my dog is better because of class and hopefully my dog is a GREAT ambassidor of a well trained dog when we go out and about."

~ Angie Hartley and Ayla

Pork Chop

"Thank you so much for a great experience with Pork Chop. We had been very apprehensive about how he would do but he really came out of his shell and surprised us on wanting to learn. Starting with a frightened, timid rescue dog to having a playful and willing to learn boy has been an amazing transformation. He has come a long way and we thank you for the tools to help us continue to work with him to have him be even happier. He is now eagerly sitting for treats at home!!

Thank you,

Stacy, Joe and Pork Chop"

Arlo

"We loved the class, Devene, and the volunteers. Everyone received so much inidividual attention and there was always an answer for every question or concern. We also loved the time that was devoted to exercises like pass the puppy - it was great for Arlo to have the opportunity to be handled positively by someone other than us. We can really see how much more comfortable he became as the classes progressed. Also we appreciated the extra thought and effort Lisa put in when we requested help with Arlo's odd behavior during handling, thanks to her recommendations, he has made a complete turnaround."

~ Chad & Ashley Blake with Arlo

Jeni

"Jeni is becoming much more comfortable around other dogs... the exposure to other dogs in a controlled environment has been very helpful for her. She still has a long way to go but the class was the perfect environment for her to work on her relaxation skills. She is quickly becoming much more social with people and in fact I would hardly consider her shy anymore, we had visitors over the other day, a male and a female and she approached BOTH of them on her own with no prompting and allowed them to pet her. Interacting with the staff at Trainers was helpful with this. If we had not had enough individual attention and care to Jeni's special needs in the class she would not have been able to be successful. Participating in a class with Jeni would not have been possible with any other program... Lisa was absolutely wonderful in helping Jeni and me both feel comfortable in class and not pushing either of us beyond what we were ready for. She also was great about letting me dictate the direction of each class for Jeni when I knew she was overwhelmed, but giving lots of valuable advice along the way for helping her relax. I appreciated her taking a phone call outside of class to discuss some of Jeni's anxious behaviors and how to help. All of the instruction was very quality advice for every dog owner and every dog!"

~ Gabi Vannini with Jeni

Deuce

"This being my first dog, I needed the training - the information is great and I know I just need to spend more time working with him. I agree with the training technique and appreciate the instructor and volunteers patience and understanding with me and my dog. The clicker and positive reenforcement was what I was looking for, he responds well to that and I feel good about his training. Much thanks to Sue and the volunteers!"

~ Kelley Ferland with Deuce

Stanley

"Dear Trainers Academy,

My name is Stanley, and I am a graduate from your Intermediate class for 6 weeks. Every week I couldn't wait for Saturday to get here, so I could go to school and learn how to be obedient. Through this 6 week class I was able to bond with my owners, which is important to me, because I was once a stray dog in the wild. I especially enjoyed eating copious amounts of delicious treats as I learned new things. I liked being around other dogs in a safe environment, and I don't get as scared around other dogs now. Thank you Trainers Academy for making my first experience with school such a positive one! Hopefully I can convince my owners to let me come back sometime.

Best regards,

Stanley J. Ramsey"

Monster

"Hello Devene and trainers!

I just wanted to take a minute to thank you and update you on how Monster has been since you last knew. Training with Monster hasn't stopped, we continue to work around distractions and in an ideal environment he will respond to over twenty words! In long chains too. Thank you all so much for all you have done for us, and I look forward to doing a class in the future."

~ Cameron Luchtel with Monster

Indy

"Overall I really enjoyed this class and found it more effective than a similar class I previously took my dog to at a different establishment. I appreciated the instructor's knowledge and enthusiasm. I also liked that the teaching methods were adapted to each individual dog's personality so that no dog was overlooked. My dog really enjoyed coming to class every week and responded well to the clicker."

~ Carrie Fienberg and Indy

Franklin

"We thought the class was great. Sue knew Franklin got nervous with other dogs and people in a large, new group, so she immediately taught us how to get him comfortable with the situation. That alone was worth it to us, and he learned a ton more. We really appreciated that personal touch, and the positive clicker method...Franklin is learning new tricks already, using the same tactics we learned in class."

~ Matthew Neff and Kaitlyn Kean Franklin

Roxie

"I really liked this class as it was different then any I had used before. I liked the the postive reinforcement type training. My vet, Madison Vet Hosp., suggested you and I am glad they did."

~Cindy Lawler with Roxie

"I am pleased with the professionalism and friendliness of the Academy staff, and knowledge of the trainers. I like seeing my pet achieve goals, seeing his playful behavior, and learning new skills to teach my pet."

~ Rachelle Neumann with Rory

Dr. Watson

"Trainers Academy has been a great resource for me and my dog. Clicker training has been fun and an effective training tool. The Day Care has been great in helping Dr. Watson to be less afraid of other dogs and now he loves to play. Now when we are out and meet another dog, he is much more friendly."

~ Shelly Kinney with Dr. Watson

Bear

"I liked that the trainers were understanding of the issues we have with puppies, they gave real examples of things, they gave us time to practice things, they answered all questions, and it was fun for the puppies. This {puppy class} was very helpful to me and my family. We have had other dogs in our lives and Bear was doing things and having more energy then we knew what to do with, this class helped us to understand how to teach him what we expected of him without punishment. Thank You!!"

~ Sharon Kroll with Bear

"I thought the training class was great. Everyone I have talked to at trainer's academy including the day care staff have been wonderful. You can really tell that everyone that works there loves dogs."

~ Melanie Leppert with Hades

Gibby

"Thank you for this class! Gibby's improving every day and we're thankful to have such a great training resource... He's much more attentive and focused on me when we are "on", and seems calmer at home too... I liked that reasoning was explained along with instruction, not just 'do this, do that'"

~ Amy DeLong with Gibby

Chopper

"I loved the experience I had at Trainers Academy's Intermediate class. Devene was an amazing teacher. She made the class fun for me and my dog Chopper. I can't believe how far Chopper has come since the first day of class. He is a two year old boxer who was dog aggressive and didnt listen to me very well. Now after the six week class, I can have him in a room with other dogs and he is relaxed and not being aggressive at all. Plus at home he is a great boy and listens so much better. I recommend Trainers Academy to anyone at any level with their pets."

~ Jennifer Ross with Chopper

Lacey

"So happy we found this place! This was our second class, and we will be back for a third. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and able to customize group options and activities for individual dogs. I love that we can watch others and also have time to practice as a group/individual. The instructor and volunteers truly care about our pups!!! I also think the graduation ceremony and contests are fun to wrap up the class!"

Dexter

"Enjoyed the class and I learned some great techniques. Everyone was so well-prepared. Your love for dogs was quite evident...

Misty

Molly

"We learned so much in 6 weeks and we really needed the help, especially with our puppy Misty. Misty is doing so much better at home and when we go for walks. Molly and Misty getting excited when I get the treats out and we start practice at home. It is funny to watch them, because Misty is always watching what Molly is doing she even learned to give her paw because Molly loves to do it. We still have a long way to go, but it is not so frustrating anymore. Thanks to Trainers Academy.

The staff was great and we would recommend Trainers Academy to everyone who considers dog training lessons."

~ Heidi & Dieter Feunfer with Misty & Molly

"I had fun and learned a lot in the class. Both Sawyer's behavior, and our overall relationship greatly improved from Week 1 to Week 6, and we both learned things that will benefit both of us throughout our lives together."

"This was my first time taking a class at Trainers Academy and we really enjoyed it. I thought everyone was great and patient with not just myself but everyone else in the class."

"Kebo & I had already been to puppy and intermediate classes at another facility.  The differences in the two places are like night and day.  The instructor spent quite a bit of time on "stories" about how she trained her dogs.  I may just be a different type of learner, but that didn't do anything for me.  At Trainer's Academy,I learned SO much about the way dogs think about things & about how I was "accidently" training my dog to do the wrong things!  All of a sudden it all made sense!  Plus, the written instructions & articles that we received every week after class by way of e-mail was so helpful to me.  I printed everything out and have it in a file to refer back to.  I also enjoyed the "games" we played with the dogs.  Thank you so much!"

"I can't say enough about Trainers Academy.  I have had the experience of both daycare & now the Intermediate class & can not say enough good things.  Max is a shy dog by nature who is scared of new dogs & my vet recommended daycare for him.  I called & they got him started right away & made me comfortable about leaving him.  They started him off very slowly w/dogs who would help build Max's confidence.  After a few weeks he was able to start to play in larger play groups. One day we were at the vet getting ready to leave & there was another dog at the counter, so I was waiting down the hall so Max would not start to bark at that dog.  All of a sudden he started to whine & and tried to drag me towards the counter. I couldn't figure out what he was up to until I saw the dog at the counter, it was a dog that he would play with at daycare.  Max knew him & was trying to get over for a visit.  I know that they will never put him in a situation where he is uncomfortable. 

CJ Calice, Puppy and Intermediate Class Graduate

I have to tell you how much Trainers Academy has enriched our lives and improved our relationship with our dogs. About 13 years ago I first took a Beginner class at Trainers Academy because I was looking for something more positive than what I had experienced in a Puppy class near my home. Now, so many years later I see that you are the new and improved Trainers Academy. This time it is ALL positive, and I feel built up and encouraged. It has also improved my relationship with my daughter, as we come to class together with our dog. Because of your programs I feel we will be able to fulfill out mutual dream of our CJ becoming a therapy dog. You have unknowingly brought a lot of healing and joy to our family as we recover from the loss of a dear pet - one year ago - and from some personal trauma and struggles over the past year. Thank you to your entire staff for being so sensitive and for encouraging my daughter when she struggled in class, and for helping her gain confidence in handling her pet. I LOVE hearing her tell her dog after class, how proud she is of him, and I love hearing her say it to others. What a wonderful experience. I am very happy and look forward to continuing working with you!

...I can see that I am gaining a better understanding of how have a great, positive relationship with our dogs. Coolest thing ever is that our 12 year old Golden is learning new tricks as well.

~ Lisa and Olena Calice

Dozer Audritsh, Intermediate Class Graduate

Carter Miller, Intermediate Class Graduate

We would recommend you to any dog owner, it was a great program that promotes good behavior!

Charlie and Sarah Miller

Abbey Sanders, Puppy Class Graduate

We thank you for the love, training and concern that you have shown not only us the pet owners, but our puppies also. You always put our dogs well being in the forefront of your training. It was very impressive to us that each dog owner who had a concern was given time to explain the situation, you took whatever time needed to help and you made sure the entire class learned from this discussion. It is obvious that you care about dogs and helping us old timers' retrain our thinking from past mistakes was worth every penny of the cost to attend your classes. We highly recommend your training classes and will tell our friends and family that Trainers Academy is their best choice for training a happy healthy dog.

Terry and Diane Sanders

Diesel Withrow, Puppy & Intermediate Class Graduate

We are extremely pleased with our experience at Trainer’s Academy.

Molly Kowalski, Intermediate Class Graduate

Molly continues to do well.  Thanks to all of you for making this such a pleasant experience.   We are highly recommending your school to others!

Cindy and Ski Kowalski

Marco Polo, Intermediate Class Graduate

Although this was a class (albeit with a limited number of dogs) it was amazing to watch how individualized you were with the instruction and the approach to each dog, how you knew which dogs to pair with which, and how to approach each, and I loved the feedback to whatever questions we had at the end of each class, even if they were unrelated to the training, but just were overall dog behavior questions. Plus, you remembered week after week what our concerns were with our dogs, and I  know you have other classes and day care to run, so that impressed me. Your love of dogs, and your attention to training their trainers as well, shone through. I would recommend you to anyone who has a dog, of whatever age. My little guy, who was so timid and afraid at the start of the 6 weeks, became a new dog during the process. Thank you. 

Marilyn Peters

Everyone is so helpful and kind.  Nyah loves to attend class as well as day care.  She actually knows where we are when we pull into the parking lot and becomes excited which lets me know that when I am not with her she really is being taken care of.  I appreciate everyone's help and patiences with answering my questions with Nyah as well as their reassurance that Nyah is on the right path.  I highly recommend Trainers Academy and can't wait to take the advanced class and canine good citizen testing with Nyah there!

I would love to see an agility course or a course geared towards therapy dog training since Devene and Angie are wonderful to work with.

Jennifer Kunst

His mouthing is so much better.  His temperament and ability to yield to our commands is astonishing for his young age.  He has come a long way since starting this course....This class was fantastic!  Our puppy has come a very long way from Class #1 to Class #6, and my wife and I are so please to have enrolled Teddy Bear into this course, as we found it to be worth every penny.  We both learned so many useful tips to allow for the training to become a normal daily practice for us to use with our Teddy Bear at home.  He loved the class as much as we did and it was always something we looked forward to attending each week.  Teddy will definitely continue his education with the Trainers Academy.  

Thank you!
Frank Ellero
 

Trainer’s Academy is very well organized and structured so that one skill builds upon another.  The trainers were great listeners and were very helpful with each problem. Our dog presented some unique issues and we were very concerned. They helped us work through things and taught us ways to work through the issues.  They showed compassion for each dog and wanted the training to be successful.

Nancy Gorga
 

Molly and Brewster are two puppy mill rescues who were socially challenged. After going through the intermediate class we saw a huge difference. They both started the first class by hidding under a chairl. By the end of the six weeks, Molly approached another handler on her own and Brewster was greeting other dogs. We drove an hour and a half to attend classes and it was well worth it! I would recommend Trainers Academy to anyone no matter what their dog's challenges are because the trainers are able to give tips to get through any issue. Molly  and Brewster are much happy, more active, and affectionate thanks to the confidence they gained at TA!

Christine Becker
 

Overall, the training classes were great! I trained all my dogs with old fashioned 70s training, but the experience you get from only positive training is much better. The level of trust and friendship between my dogs and I just rose to another higher level. I have read numerous books about positive training. Patricia McConnell and Temple Gradin are my heroes, and everything that they say makes sense, but it is a whole other story to put this info into the real world.  This class finally connected the dots for me, and now I am able to put the book knowledge into the real world because thanks to Lisa, I know how to. Lisa's knowledge about the dog world is really great, and I am happy that I took her class.

Thanks,

Silvie Van Etten
 

Best puppy training I've ever been to, because I learned the most and brought the dog to a higher level of obedience than either of the other two dogs I took to puppy classes from other sponsors.

The Kirkland Family
 

Bo, Intermediate Class Graduate

Angie was a wonderful instructor and made us feel comfortable and confident during the classes. She understood our issues and was extremely helpful with giving us pointers on how to handle certain situations. She had a very positive attitude and seemed genuinely excited about the dogs and their success in the class! It is extremely comforting to know that we always have Trainer's Academy as a resource in the future. The peace of mind is priceless! Thank you!

Amanda & Brad Muckenthaler
 

Hey Lisa,
 
I do not know if you remember Bruno and I, but I have yet another success update for you.  Unfortunately, Bruno was returned after a year and one month of being adopted.  Turned out that his owners divorced, the wife took the female with her...his dear playmate and left the husband with Bruno. 

Bruno went though quite a depression period of not eating, moping around and loosing weight.  Our shelter was sponsoring a "Pet Reunion" in June for formerly adopted pets.  Bruno's dad contacted us that he had to give him up due to "not enough time" and dumped him on us at the reunion.  

Well our shelter was full to the max on kennel space and fosters.  So I took him home with me and after a year of missing this boy, it was like he never left...for the most part.  He had yet another couple of weeks of adjustments and misbehavior.  I quickly put into practice all that I learned from you and in no time he was a good boy. 

Then to top it off, I was in the works of moving to Arizona, so there was even more stress in his life of jumping on a plane, flying 2000 miles and into a new and smaller place with no furniture or anything familiar to him.  This boy has been through more than any dog should have to endure with finding a loving family and stability.  Well the move just set him back again.  So I reverted back to day one of his training and let me tell you, he is an amazing boy!  He always knew his basic commands and some tricks, but my diligence in keeping him on track with what I learned through you has paid off. 

The positive reinforcement does wonders.  They pick it up so quickly and remember it!  Bruno had to learn to trust me and he does.  Once again I thank you.....Bruno will be a part of my family from now on.  He chose me...amidst all the good works I did to try and find him a home.  I guess his home was mine and he knew it all along.  All my dogs love him and he is one of the gang!

Once again...I thank you for teaching me.
Deb
 

Doodle

After adopting our 6 month old Labradoodle, I couldn't wait to begin a training program for him.  He and I both needed it.  Him being a high energy dog,  I knew it would be essential that I learn quickly how to help shape him positively, before too many negative behaviors came about.  From the first meeting I found the information so relevant to what I needed to know.  Charlie was an extremely eager participant and caught on to the positive clicker training immediately.  It's amazing to see that within a few tries of greeting a stranger he could calmly sit and wait out a treat without jumping on someone.  For me to no longer be pulled down the street on walks is like a dream.....so I am grateful for all the positive training.  Of course we are still working the methods out in the world and I have seen many strides.  I am finding that with hard work and persistence even our high energy dog is getting it! 

Kim Steves
 

Tess has definitely gained confidence (and personality).  While you didn't see it in class, when we'd get home she'd strut around, like she really thought she was something else - tossing toys in the air, teasing Cody and initiating play.  She now approaches neighbors that she knows - wagging her tail and asking to be petted!  That's huge and beyond my expectations of what she'd get from the class.  Thanks!!! 

Jill Calvin
 

In the past, I have been to other training which was less expensive, but I have learned that you get what you pay for! The instruction at Trainers Academy is the very best and definitely very worth the extra cost.    I really like the positive training techniques that are taught.  And how the dog's interpretations of our actions are explained!

Edie McLeod
 

I run a Shih Tzu rescue and we frequently have owners surrender their dogs because of behavior issues.  I have found that even a little bit of obedience training goes a long way towards keeping the dogs in their current homes or re-homing them.  Not only do the dogs learn basic commands, they also develop a sense of importance, a connection with their owner/trainer, and are very proud to be "smart doggies."  With this newly-found self confidence, many of the problem behaviors disappear on their own.  

I found that to be especially true with Jonas, who was sometimes cowering and shy, and other times wild and out of control.  I noticed a difference in him after the very first week of training at Trainers Academy.  That week he learned to look up at me, focus and listen, and--best of all--the following week at home had the confidence to go outside to take care of "business" rather than seek out a corner.  His personality blossomed, and he is a happier dog (and we are a happier family)!

Cathi White & Jonas
 

We absolutely treasure the classes at Trainer's Academy.  We travel almost 2  hours to class and have put one of our puppies through puppy, intermediate and  advanced, and our second puppy through puppy class.  It is well worth the travel  time!  The knowledge provided is invaluable to not only our pups, but also to us  as pet owners.  We look forward to continuing with Trainer's academy in the future.

Kathy VanGorp
 

Olive was rescued from Detroit Animal Control as a pup. She had several issues when we started working together - including sensitivity to strangers, especially men, coming into, and being the house. She had already nipped at a man and was very difficult to control anytime someone knocked on the door, or rang the door bell. 

Most concerning to the client though, was that Olive had also exhibited worrisome behavior around their young daughter, Alexa. So the owner set up a private consult with Lisa.

Progress follow up 2 weeks post-visit:

Things are going great!  Olive is adjusting to the (training) very well.

We have been working with her every night when Chris comes home from work with him knocking on the door and Olive going to her pillow and staying there until he/me releases her.

Olive is getting a hand of "moving on" when Alexa approaches her. I have noticed that sometimes I don't even have to say anything to Olive she just gets us and moves on. The sit, lay, stay on her pillow is also working well, we went outside the other day and worked on it also.

All in all I think Olive is making good progress. I work with her on average about an 1 hour to 1.5 hours a day and always when Alexa is around.
 
Lisa, thank you so much for the tools to teach Olive to be a great dog. I will keep in touch.

Carrie

Progress follow up, approximately 4 weeks post-visit:

Over the weekend we had a cable guy come over and one of our (male) friends came over also. Olive did great... When the cable guy came over Olive was in the kitchen with me and I told her to sit, lay, stay where she was, and I could not believe my eyes - the cable person was in our house for about 30 minutes and Olive never once got up to go meet him. I kept telling her to stay and rewarding the good behavior. Once the cable guy was gone I released her. She was great!

Later on that night our friend came over. I told Olive to go to her pillow and did the same sit, lay, stay until she was calm. Once she was calm I released her. Our friend was so impressed (Olive nipped at him before). The whole time he was here he was able to walk around our house with out the fear of Olive nipping at him. He kept saying how impressed he was with Olive.

Progress is being made :) to be continued..

Thanks again for everything
Carrie

Progress follow up, 1 year and 3 months post-visit:

I can not believe that it has been a year since you were at our home.  I can't tell you enough how thankful we were to you have you in our home.  Olive and Alexa are doing great together.  We have not had any problems what so ever.  Alexa is now 2-1/2 and just loves Olive.  

We have set boundaries for both of them when they are around each other.  I can tell you that I feel comfortable leaving Alexa in the same room as Olive.  Within the last few months Alexa wants to pet Olive but we have made it clear to Alexa that she can only pet Olive when Mommy and Daddy are there.  A cute story I want to share with you.  Alexa has two blankets that she sleeps with.  The other day we were upstairs and Olive was laying down just watching what was going on.  Alexa went into her bedroom to get one of her blankets.  When she came back into our bedroom with her blanket she put it on Olive and told her night night. Chris and I realized after your visit that we thought we were doing the correct things with Olive and in fact we were doing the opposite.

Olive has continued to be great with people that come into our home.  When someone is at the door I tell her to go to her pillow and she stays there until I release her. 

I have told everyone I know that has a dog to take them to see you for any training needs. 

Thanks for everything.

Carrie
 

Hardie meeting a new friend, Dollar, without fear. In fact he wanted to play with her... something that never would have happened a few months prior.

"Catch me if you can!"

Just remember that you are amazing and the work you did with Miss Misia caused me to fall in love with dogs.  

Lisa, I will be forever grateful to you.  When I first met Tom, I was like...oh you have a slobbery, hairy dog....lovely.  Now, I bought my own puppy, and I love them both as though they are human children.  
You work wonders!

Thank you,
Tiffanie Coe
 

Dear Lisa and Friends,

We really want to thank you for some excellent training!  Alfie expects us to perform our routine training sessions and let's us know if she's in the mood even when we're not!  We acquired some great guidelines and promise to do our best to proceed with the lessons you taught so very well.

We hope to stay in touch, but if for some reason we lose touch, please know that your guidance will forever make a difference in the life we share with Alfie.

Many, many thanks!

Bonnie and Tony Panetta
 

Connor

Hi Lisa,

I had you this past summer for puppy class, actually Conner had you. You may remember a certain German Shepard plush coat, that took the class from behind the counter in Farmington Hills. 

Conner is doing fine, he is one year old now and still a puppy.  His manners are much improved since you saw him last, and he continues to amaze me as to how smart he is.  I know, I am a little prejudiced, but he picks things up so fast. Only dog I have ever had, where you can tell him to go get his red ball, or the green one and he will.  If he has not finished his dinner and wants a biscuit, I tell him not till he is done with his dog food.  And darn'd if he doesn't  go finish it and come back for a biscuit. 

Thank you for your help.

Don Harris
 

Regards,
Konomi Gamo Scott
 

Lou

Daisy when she graduated from our Greyhounds Only Class. This was the first class Connie and Daisy attended over a year ago. In August 2007 she earned a Canine Good Citizen certificate at Trainers Academy, LLC.

I dropped a treat on the floor as I was getting ready to take Daisy to day care. She just about had it in her mouth when I said, "Leave it!" She immediately looked up and came to me, leaving the treat where it was.

Quinn

Fergus
 

Muffin

I took my puppy, Muffin to Puppy class and Intermediate class and daycare at Trainers Academy, LLC. Muffin learned by the clicker training method and it has worked very well. Lisa (Laney) Patrona, the new owner is the top of the line and is well educated and gifted in training, counseling and caring for dogs. I would recommend Trainers Academy to anyone wishing the best training and education for their pet. The Daycare program is top of the line also.
 

Clue Carey

Madam Carey

Both are Greyhound-Only Class Graduates and part of Allison Carey's family!

Precious & Suzanne DiCicco - Intermediate Class Graduates

Suzanne sent this great news to her instructor, Lisa (Laney) Patrona, Dip. DTBC, CPDT-KA, CBC:

Hi Lisa,

I have to tell you how PROUD I am of my little girl. I was visiting with my grandparents and they live on 80+ acres of orchards and woods. Precious is allowed to run free provided she is within a 10-15ft distance at max from me at all times. Around 10pm I took her out before bed and made sure to make a lot of noise to ward off any wild animals. Well it just so happened that when I did it didn't scare the deer fast enough. She walked out with me caught a whiff of them and bolted. I freaked and thought I would never see her again!!! In mid-sprint 25ft+ away I called her to return and she DID!! She stopped the chase and sat next to me on the porch, giddy and pumped none the less. I couldn't believe it!! I will of course be much more cautious in the future but was so happy with her I had to tell you! :)

I'm especially thankful that I found you and your organization!!! I was really at the end of my rope until you taught me how to train her. THANK YOU

-Suzanne & Precious

Freckles great recall saved his life!

Connie & Freckles both held a "stay" so their mom could secure the gate at a dog park.

Freckles & Connie with Ruth & Chris Hiner - Greyhound-Only Class Graduates

This article was e-mailed to Michigan ReGAP (Retired Greyhounds as Pets) adopters and was written by ReGAP member and freelance writer, Ken Martin (ken_marten@yahoo.com). Since sighthounds (such as greyhounds) are bred and trained to hunt by sight, getting them to focus can be a challenge. But the Hiners were up to the challenge, and as you can see, it paid off:

REGAP member Ruth Hiner, owner of Freckles and Connie, has nothing but praise for "Greyhounds Only: A Class For Retired Racers," an obedience class offered by Devene Godau, CPDT-KA of Trainers Academy, LLC. A recent afternoon romp at the local dog park almost turned into a lost greyhound search, were it not for training learned in the class. Ruth and the hounds were inside the fenced-in park when another dog owner accidentally left the double gates ajar upon exiting.

"The next thing you know, I saw Freckles outside of the park, building up a head of steam to chase after the dog that just left," Ruth said. "I yelled for Freckles to come, and he ran back into the dog park. Then I told him and Connie to stay as I ran into the gate system to close both of the gates."

Ruth's quick thinking and stay-calm attitude, combined with the skills taught to both dog and handler at Trainers Academy, saved the day. "If it wasn't for the recall and stay exercises in the obedience class, I would have lost my boy," Ruth said with a shudder. "If this isn't a good enough reason to recommend Devene's class, I don't know what is."

Breeze and Susan Dodd - Puppy & Intermediate Class Graduates

Is there such a thing as too good of a recall? This cute story was sent by one of Lisa's recent graduates:

Dear Lisa,

I wanted to share a cute story with you, after all the emphasis in puppy class and intermediate class on the distance recall, and getting your dog to want to come to you.

This past weekend I took Breeze to Ohio to see his breeders. The visit was planned because Breeze has turned out to have wonderful conformation and they wanted to evaluate him. The breeder was playing with him a little on a show lead to see his movement, but whenever Breeze caught a glimpse of me, Mom, he made a bee-line for me. In the house they asked me to call him to see if they could catch his gait going from the kitchen to the living room. I called him and he galloped to me, just as I heard the breeder saying something like "see if you can get him to come, but more slowly". Forget trotting. Of course they did get an opportunity to see him move, I just had to hide behind the car. It was great to see how determined he was to get to me when separated. Pretty Cool!

-Susan Dodd

Jake

Coral

Ari