So, how to find a good trainer?

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copper5228

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So recently I had emailed a local trainer recently; she came highly recommended by my vet group. I just want someone to come to my home to work w/ hand signals w/ my Bandit, give me some other techniques to use to get Bandit more comfortable again w/ commands (he knows his commands, but in his abusive former life they were used as abuse and torment...)...She emailed and said she'd call me when she had a moment. Well, she called several days later, at nearly 10 PM! I am wiped out by then and was honestly half asleep when she called. I was tired! I have 3 dogs, had a foster dog at the time (now have 2 fosters...) and an 8 year old son, not to mention a husband, household and part-time job. She asked if she could call one morning the next week, I said yes, anytime after 9 AM works. And I told her I get my son on the school bus at 840 AM, so earlier than 9 won't work...

Never heard from her. It's been 3 weeks. I emailed her yesterday asking what happened and she emailed back saying I was rude to her on the phone, sounded snobby b/c I didn't want to talk (at 10 PM!!) and she therefore figured I wouldn't be easy to work with so she chose not to contact me again! She said it isn't her business to deal w/ people who won't talk to her whenever she happens to be available, and that 10 PM is usually the earliest she is avail;able. OMG! Can you imagine?! Why couldn't she have said that 10 PM is her earliest time in her email, so I had a warning or heads-up? I know it isn't terribly late, but I'd never call someone I didn't know or return a call at 10 PM! Well, I told her to never contact me again and will be letting my vet know how she has spoken to me...I cannot believe it. We don't have a ton of trainers around here, so I am not really sure where to find someone reputable....

Anyone have suggestions? THANKS a bunch!!!
 
Yeah, I'm a follower of the 10/9 rule concerning phone calls,not before 10 or after 9 unless instructed otherwise. I think this is a good indicator that you would not have been a good match so it's good you found this out before investing any $. She was rude to you, a perspective client !! I guess she isn't too concerned about her reputation. This just means that the perfect trainer for you is just waiting to be found. :yes:
 
Lots of dog trainers out there, you need to find a teacher who you feel a good vibe with. Keep looking! How rude to call you so late in the evening.
 
I agree with the advice thus far. Continue your search until you find one who has availability and you get a good vibe from. If this trainer could only talk with you at 10pm, when is she going to have time to train you?

Since there are so few good trainers in your area, you may want to take a few hours and attend a trial. Pick up a catalog, seek out those people competing at the Utility B level who live in your vicinity. Watch how they interact with their teammate, watch their warm up and then watch them complete in the ring. After they've competed and have placed their dog in it's crate, and perhaps have decompressed from being in the ring, then I would approach them about the possibility of teaching. Maybe all you need are a few privates?

Of course there are some really good trainers who aren't currently trialing at the Utility B level because of circumstances. If you happen to see and talk with a few competitors, maybe some will offer a referral.

Good luck in your search and if you happen to find someone, let us know!

I won't trial in Albany KC's obedience trials until next year but at their shows the best of the best in our area compete.

Dani
Staymat Magnificent Journey UD, OM1
Armitage Dazzling Spun Gold CDX, RAE
Double Dare Derrick CD, RAE
Blackmyst Poker Face
 
She called YOU at 10 pm and claimed your rude?? Ridiculous. Find another trainer. She's not the one for you or your Sheltie.

Wish I could make some recommendations, but we're in Maryland so that wouldn't help.

Good luck with your search!
 
fuzbuttsheltie said:
I won't trial in Albany KC's obedience trials until next year but at their shows the best of the best in our area compete.

That should have been....the best of the best in the surrounding area from from VT to MD compete.

Although I live in Maryland, I show at certain trials throughout the NE corridor. I've met some absolutely wonderful trainers, taken privates with a few, and thoroughly enjoyed their company.

Good luck in your search!

Dani
Staymat Magnificent Journey UD, OM1
Armitage Dazzling Spun Gold CDX, RAE
Double Dare Derrick CD, RAE
Blackmyst Poker Face
Click to expand...
 
Hahaha that is really funny, she calls at 10 pm and then calls you rude! Unbelievable. Your probably better off. :)
My cousin had a trainer, but I believe he was from west Milford, NJ and I think it would probably be too far.
So sorry you had to deal with that. All the good work you do, that's just rude.
 
Thanks. :)

I am not having luck finding a trainer...or where would I even attempt to find a local trial so I can scope people out??
 
You can also find dog shows and performance events in your area at AKC website. They have recently updated the site and it is much easier!
 
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