Frequently Asked Questions
Scroll down for added 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.
- 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. I believe everyone should have access to high quality dog training without financial barriers getting in the way.
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. I believe everyone should have access to high quality dog training without financial barriers getting in the way.
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.
Why are you no longer offering customized training plans for each session?
Great question! I am currently enrolled in a fully online 2-year graduate program and am working toward my degree in clinical mental health counseling. As of December 26, 2024, I am preparing to start my in-the-field experience and am not sure how this will impact my schedule for writing training plans.
To help accommodate this, I am now offering clients the option to record the activities assigned for homework in-session! There is no extra charge to do this if you use your own recording device. Since each session is tailored to each dog, their needs, and their situation, I highly advise against sharing these videos with other dog guardians.
To help accommodate this, I am now offering clients the option to record the activities assigned for homework in-session! There is no extra charge to do this if you use your own recording device. Since each session is tailored to each dog, their needs, and their situation, I highly advise against sharing these videos with other dog guardians.
You said you're a full-time student. Do you still have time for dog training?
Yes! I am very diligent in updating my website whenever there is a change. Unless you see an announcement on this website (it will be on multiple pages and obvious), I am still accepting clients and providing dog training services!
I follow you on Instagram and Facebook but you don't post very often. How come?
Social media has never been a priority for me, which is shocking considering I am part of the generation that practically lives on the internet. My priority has always been to my clients, and I have found I get the most clients through in-person networking rather than online. When I graduate in September 2025, I hope to post more on the platforms! Thank you for your understanding.