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FAQ

What types of behaviors can SongDog help me control?

Aggression (for a list, see our Behavioral Therapy section), unruliness, separation anxiety, inappropriate elimination, barking, digging, running away, jumping, spinning and just about anything else your dog can think of!

If my dog goes away for training will they remember me?

This is probably our most commonly asked question. The answer is yes! It has been my experience that if you have known the dog for at least two weeks, the dog will remember you for life. Actually, if the dog didn't remember you, it would make my job easier. We could simply remove the dog from your environment, complete the training and send the dog home and that is how they would act from that point on. We know this wouldn't work. Your dog will remember you and remember how they acted with you before the therapy and transfer of training.

Will training or therapy break my dog's spirit or change their personality?

Many people are concerned about this. This is where science meets art. It is possible for the trainer to become so overbearing that the dog simply shuts down. We have all seen dogs that, while they responded to the handler, did so without drive and motivation.

SongDog takes great pride in giving the owner back a dog that not only responds well but, does so out of love, respect and enthusiasm. We teach the dog coping skills and active avoidance stratagies. We spend a tremendous amount of time implementing play reinforcement and relaxtion training to counter any emotionality the dog may be experiening due to the training.

Will you tell me if my dog cannot be helped?

Absolutely. First, we recommend a complete exam by your vet. We want to rule out the possibility of the behavior being a result of a physiological issue. If the exam is satisfactory, we will evaluate the dog. We will come up with a diagnosis and create a treatment protocol. Together we will determine if your animal is capable of being helped and if your home dynamic is beneficial to the dog. If we cannot help you, we will tell you and help you locate someone who can.

Trainer or Behaviorist?

Behavior problems are not training issues. If you are interested in teaching some simple operant commands or refining your dog's manners, you are probably looking for a trainer. However, if your dog is exhibiting a behavioral problem such as aggression or inappropriate elimination you need the services of an animal behaviorist.

Consider this analogy. If your child were routinely engaging in temper tantrum behavior, would you take them to the school nurse or a trained psychologist? Most likely you would choose the psychologist. While both professionals work with children, the psychologist is better equipped to deal with a complex behavior problem.

We have an extensive list of references available for you to contact regarding all of these questions. We really encourage this as it gives you an opportunity to talk to someone who has been through this before and has been on your side of the fence!

Does SongDog require updated vaccination and health records?

Yes.

Does SongDog recommend I see my vet prior to sending my dog away?

Yes. If your dog is admitted to SongDog for behavior therapy reasons, SongDog recommends your dog be seen by your vet to determine that the behavior (s) have no physiological etiology.

Is food or water withheld for training purposes?

No.

If my dog has medication can SongDog administer it?

Yes.

If my dog has a special diet, will there be an opportunity for my dog to get food not on the diet?

No. All dogs are fed separately and feeding time is supervised.

Will my dog stay on its own food and feeding schedule?

Yes. It is the client's responsibility to provide the food for the duration of the training. We will follow your feeding instructions.

Will I be able to speak with the therapist while my dog is away?

Yes. Typically, it is best to get weekly updates as this allows us to discuss which stage of training you dog is in. You will be given the therapist's cell phone, home phone, email and emergency contact number.

Will my dog interact with other dogs at the training center?

Whenever possible we try to allow dogs to spend time with each other, provided that they all get along and everyone is safe. SongDog feels it is important to allow play as it combats stress and gives the dog a break from training and therapy. Your dog will be supervised during play at all times.

Can you provide a list of references?

Absolutely. We will be happy to give you a list of people in which to contact.

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