Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect as your client?
After our Meet the Trainer phone or email consultation, we will schedule our training session for a day and time that works for both of us. Our 1 hour session will be spent discussing ideas on how to make your pup the best they can be, trying out those ideas, and deciding what works best for you. Upon completion of the session, payment can be made via CashApp, Venmo, card, cash, or check. If included in your chosen training path, you will receive your customized Training Plan via email within 72 hours of your session. It will outline what we covered during our session including step-by-step guides to modify your pet's behavior.
- What training methods do you use?
I prefer to use positive reinforcement - using rewards to increase the likelihood of a behavior. I will always choose to follow the Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) method first.
With that being said, if we have exhausted every possible positive reinforcement method under the sun and your dog still isn't understanding what you want from them, we will explore other methods of training. I only use training tools in a humane way that works for your dog and doesn't traumatize them.
With that being said, if we have exhausted every possible positive reinforcement method under the sun and your dog still isn't understanding what you want from them, we will explore other methods of training. I only use training tools in a humane way that works for your dog and doesn't traumatize them.
How often should I schedule training sessions?
That's completely up to you! I want you to have plenty of time to practice with your canine companion, without feeling like you have to practice every minute of every day (even I don't do that). I recommend scheduling them at least 1 week apart, with one session every 2 weeks as a popular choice.
What is your cancellation policy?
Any cancellation of any service made within 36 hours of the service will result in a 50% charge of expected earnings. This charge must be paid prior to any future services.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I currently accept payment through Venmo, CashApp, cash, and check. Payment through Venmo must be sent as friends and family, as I am charged a fee if it is sent as a business transaction. I am also able to take credit and debit cards, however, there is an additional charge to cover the processing fee.
Payment is due immediately after the service unless specified with the service or other arrangements have been made.
Payment is due immediately after the service unless specified with the service or other arrangements have been made.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes I do! Training session packs are now available! See "Services" for more information!
For low budget owners, I offer discounted training support over the phone, via email, and over video chat. I'm happy to work with you after your Meet the Trainer consultation (which is free) to brainstorm ideas that work for you, your companion, and your budget.
For low budget owners, I offer discounted training support over the phone, via email, and over video chat. I'm happy to work with you after your Meet the Trainer consultation (which is free) to brainstorm ideas that work for you, your companion, and your budget.
Are kids allowed to participate in training?
Absolutely! The more people involved in training, the better. I love bringing games into training and your family will too!
Are there any behavior problems you don't assist with?
Nope! My services are unlimited. Honesty is really important to me! I need to know if your dog has a history of biting or nipping so I can be sure to practice all safety measures during training. I won't judge you for anything, as long as you're honest with me.
Why do your business cards say "Sydney VanMeter" but your website says "Sydney Peck"?
I got married! I am still in the process of taking on my husband's last name--it's quite a lengthy ordeal. I jumped on ordering new business cards as I didn't realize how long this would take.
