We all have the one pet client that likes to pull your arm out of its socket like it’s a game.  You gently talk with the client and you both agree that a trainer should be called. Or the pet has terrible separation anxiety and it hurts to watch the pet go through it. Again, a trainer gets involved.

What should you do then?  What is your role? I reached out to some of my training friends, and their responses were very similar. Come to a training session, get training on tools used in training, and don’t confuse the dog.

We all know that carving time out of your schedule is next to impossible but there are times you need to do it. Try to get to one of the training sessions with the pet parent and the trainer so you can all be on the same page. The trainer may be using a different method you are not familiar with due to the behavior the dog has exhibited. The trainer may have learned a new method at a conference or workshop and thought this is best for this dog’s temperament. By going to a training session you will learn something new which you may be able to use later.

Sometimes a trainer may suggest a new harness or some other “tool” for the dog. Trainers study new “tools” and the best way to use them. They can teach you, and again, you can have another “tool” in your toolbox. Most importantly you will be using the “tool” properly so no one gets hurt.

We all have a method that we think is best but if the dog is being trained by a professional, work with them. It can be very confusing for the dog to have to keep switching methods with each person. It will not benefit the dog at all to use different tools or methods and it may make the dog frustrated. 

Everyone wants the dog to succeed and stay in their home forever. We as dog walkers want to be a part of that by working together (trainer and pet parent). Every time we all work together it is a win for the dog. Ask questions, a trainer wants everyone to learn what’s best for the dog. On a side note, you can also build your network of pet professionals, it is always a good idea to have a good trainer to call.  

Joni Sullivan

Joan of Ark Pet Sitting

Dedicated NAPPS Director and NAPPS Volunteer