No, I am not accredited with Assistance Dogs International or directly affiliated with any other companies at this time. I have worked for multiple service dog organizations in the past, following LIMA protocols, and utilize clicker or marker based training with every dog I train, regardless of the job they will be assigned, so to speak. I believe in utilizing techniques and principles of dog training backed by science and enjoy building dogs for clients in wheelchairs, those with mobility support concerns, and veterans with post traumatic stress disorder. While I prefer to place a “turn-key” service dog with its future handler, sometimes it is necessary to train a puppy or pet you’ve already taken ownership of. These cases are evaluated on a month to month basis. Call me to discuss your unique situation.

In the past, I have done behavioral modification, addressing anxiety and aggression. However, I no longer work with aggressive breeds, nor do I take on clients whose dogs have a bite history. I’ll be happy to refer you to a different trainer if possible.

Every dog is different and progresses “through the yard” at different rates of speed based on genetics, environment, upbringing, and innate desire. To build a reliable hunting partner in the field, I need at least a three to four month commitment on your part. Longer time spent in training will develop more reliable habits in your dog, although I know it can be difficult to be away from your family pet for more than a four month period. Call me to discuss your specific needs, as I have prepped gun dogs, master hunters, and proven field trial competitors. While I can teach your dog some skills required for upland hunting, I do not specialize in this area. I primarily use mallards and pheasants in an everyday training environment, but also use pigeons for young puppies. Quail and Chukkar I hope to have access to in the future to make sure your dog is introduced to a wide variety of birds they understand how to locate and become familiar with picking up.

I train and house a maximum of SIX full time client dogs per month in my home. Retriever Prospects is not a commercial style boarding kennel, although we are licensed and insured. Our weekend benefactor guests cap at THREE additional dogs, thus I never have more than NINE dogs in my care at any given time, which allows me to dedicate my time to advancing my prospects at a faster rate than most kennels who do not disclose the number of dogs they work with at a time. All dogs under my care sleep in appropriately sized RuffLand Kennels and travel in an insulated and ventilated truck topper built by TKO designs. A typical day will vary based on weather conditions, however, all dogs are exercised on either a slat mill, or through ATV roading, fed meals twice daily, are administered medications and supplements, and receive 2-3 training sessions per day. Each session length depends on the dog’s interest level and benchmarks I set up for their success. Training a small number of dogs also allows me to document their progress and provide adequate updates to each client in the form of videos, photos, and regular text updates. I compete against myself to provide the best level of care possible with integrity and purpose.

Yes! However, I only accept pure bred Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or a well thought out cross between the two breeds. Contact me to discuss a prospect you’d consider donating to become a service dog. I do not train Golden-doodles, Labra-doodles or any other “designer” cross breeds at this time.