How
We Differ...
Signature
K-9 Behavior &Training
We
Personalize...
Because it is difficult for trainers to deal with behavior
management and individual issues in a group, we begin our work on an
individual basis. This permits us to help with behavior development,
and problem solving for each client’s specific environment. These
sessions are scheduled by appointment. We offer hours seven days per
week, with morning, afternoon, and evening appointment times.
We get to
know each dog and handler (this may include family) as a team. We learn
the nature of the dog's problems and the priorities of the owner.
We explain how the dog's genetic makeup may impact training. We then
help set up a training structure to use in the home and for every aspect
of your dog’s development. This protocol includes establishment of
basic obedience cues and good manners.
Our
Methods:
Like a
good psychologist or counselor who works with people, we
understand all major training methods. Our approach is matched to each
dog’s personality, tailored to the owner’s goals, and approved by
our clients.
About
Group Classes:
We offer
small group classes of various types. The problem is, while groups are
appropriate under the right circumstances, they do not provide the best
option for all dogs, especially young dogs who are in their “scatter
brained” stage, adolescent dogs who are unruly, and dogs who are
having behavior or aggression problems. In fact, it is unfair to
the dog and owner to deal with these kinds of situations in a group
class. That is why we start all dogs individually. Then, based on their
progress, move them into a group class that fits their level of
development. This increases success and satisfaction for both dog and
handler.
Your
Veterinarian:
When a dog
exhibits a problem, it is sometimes necessary to have a veterinarian
determine if there is a physical condition that may be involved. There
might also be times when use of medication may be appropriate in
combination with a training or behavior modification plan. In such
cases, our trainers works with you and your veterinarian.
Professional
Associations:
In
order to maintain a high level of professionalism Trainers and
behaviorists need to maintain membership in professional associations
which continually work to keep current on behavior and training
innovations. And, who establish professional and ethical standards. The
organizations we are affiliated with include:
Association
of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT): Founded by Ian Dunbar, a pioneer in the
study of animal behavior. The focus of this organization is use of
positive methods, verified by research, when training or doing behavior
modification with dogs.
International
Association of Canine Professionals (IACP): Established to
meet the needs of a broad range of canine professionals: includes
trainers, breeders, groomers, kennel operators, and medical personnel.
The organization holds a yearly convention which features nationally
known presenters.
Animal
Behavior Society (ABS): An organization which studies the behavior
of a variety of animals. The organization is interested in research on
behavior, emotions, and relationships among animals.
National
K-9 Trainers Association (NK-9TA): Includes trainers from all states
in the United States and 30 other countries. Dr. Akenhead served as both
trustee and Director of the organization. He also edited and contributed
to the National K-9 Trainers Journal and the National K-9
Trainers Brief.
Rainbow
Therapy Dogs (RTD): Jim and Charlene Akenhead were among the four
individuals that organized the founding of Rainbow Therapy Dogs, a
non-profit organization which provides animal visitation to hospitals,
nursing homes, schools and other organizations where the presence of
support animal would be beneficial. The organization has a business
meeting once per month and provides various services and programs
regarding therapy dog work, responsible ownership, safety, training, and
dog care.
IAABC
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants:
An organization which exists to improve the professional
level of those who serve as behavior consultants for animals and their
owners. IAABC has ongoing education and communication programs on all
facets of behavior counseling including ethical standards. The
organization has several divisions Signature k-9's affiliation is with
the Canine Division.
Location
& Contact:
Signature
K-9 Behavior & Training: Located in NE Ohio, 2 miles south of
Ohio SR 224 on Ohio SR 44 in Marlboro Twp,, Stark County, Ohio
Mailing
Address is: 14143 Ravenna Avenue NE, Alliance, Ohio 44601
Telephone:
330-935-0186, E-mail:
bigdogs@neo.rr.com
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