Mary Spencer Harkell
5 years ago
Sam Ivy came through from the initial interview. After my husband died, my family gifted me a dog. Coco is a male hound Staffordshire mix who grew from a 24 pound four month old puppy to a 70 pound uncontrolled moose of a one year old. ... See More
Sam Ivy came through from the initial interview. After my husband died, my family gifted me a dog. Coco is a male hound Staffordshire mix who grew from a 24 pound four month old puppy to a 70 pound uncontrolled moose of a one year old. I knew I needed help.
We tried some positive reinforcement techniques, without success. I've had dogs most of my adult life, but Coco and I just couldn't connect.
He was so eager to greet that he jumped on everyone. Most of my neighbors are older. I was concerned he'd knock someone down. And of course, he chewed up every toy I brought home to him.
I was preparing to give him back to my family when I heard someone at the dog park mention their satisfaction with the Sam Ivy trainers. I didn't like some of their techniques but I called for a consult. Sadly I don't remember the man's name, but he patiently and gently answered all my questions. He gave me logical reasons behind those things that made me hesitate. After over an hour, I was convinced.
When Haley Snyder arrived at my door, I questioned my sanity. She was this tiny young woman smaller than I was, how could she handle my moose. Again my judgementalness got me in trouble. With his first collar and first command I saw a positive response.
More over, the response was in me. Haley gave me confidence I didn't realize was missing in my work with Coco. She was patient teaching me slowly on the problems I exhibited. We completed most of the intermediate level before we had to stop for cover.
Haley gave me things to work on during the shut down, which we did. When during the shut down I acquired a second puppy. I called Haley to learn any techniques I needed to know. She came though with wisdom far beyond her years, giving me confidence.
Due to that confidence, while were still working on both dogs, I can trust my dogs to be the great citizens I want. And I thank Sam Ivy and Haley for them.