Michelle O. and Buddy

There are two questions I have always asked about dogs.  The first is, “How do you let your dogs know you love them?”   Research shows that gazing into their eyes, letting them be part of family activities, and just being yourself are but a few ways to show  your love for your dogs.  I can definitively state that among the aforementioned ways, training should be at the top of the list.

We have taken three dogs to Sit Means Sit for the 20-day board and train program.  Each was more successful than the first.   We were blown away by the improvement in each dog.  I took Trixie, a german short-haired pointer, in for training when she was only a pup.  She was a quick learner, and is now a therapy dog with Caring Angels.  It is a very humbling experience to watch Trixie at work when visiting at nursing homes, court procedures, and libraries.  Her entire being is focused on the individuals she is there to visit.

Our third dog, Buddy, a heeler/pit mix, is the most successful story of all.  We found him in an animal shelter.  The staff at the shelter had almost given up hope for Buddy.  He was very antisocial and dog aggressive.  However, our son seen something special in Buddy’s eyes.  He was brought home and introduced to the other family members.  With what we were told about his history, it was a no-brainer that we get him to Sit Means Sit.  After 20 days, Buddy is a very loving, loyal member of our family.  His dog aggression has ceased.  With understanding of Buddy and training of ourselves, we are now able to take Buddy with us to dog social events.

That leads me to the second question, “How do you know your dogs love you?”  Our dogs show excitement to have the transformation which took place during their training.  They are welcome in our home just as another member of the family.  We include Trixie and Buddy in all family activities without the worry of uncontrolled behavior.  Without the training they received at the board and train program, as well as continued group class sessions, this would not have been possible for Buddy.  Both Buddy and Trixie, in their own unique ways, show us every day that the investment made in their training was well worth it.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about the trainers.  They are all extremely knowledgeable, dedicated, kind-hearted, and always available to help our with any issue may arise with our dogs.  I always tell people that I believe the training is more handler training than dog training.  I believe these dogs are a lot smarter than we give them credit for.

So, on behalf of Trixie, Buddy, and ourselves, we thank you, Sit Means Sit, for the wonderful experiences, challenges, and continued assistance in becoming even better owners for these two wonderful members of our family.