How It Works
Every household and every animal is different, which is why I take a structured, evidence-based approach to every session. My process is designed to give you a clear understanding of what to expect, from the first message you send to the follow-up support that helps your progress last. By keeping each step transparent and collaborative, I aim to make professional behavior and training support both effective and approachable.
From First Contact to Follow-Up
Here’s a closer look at what to expect during your training and behavior support journey, from the first message you send to the continued guidance that follows.
1
Reach Out
To start, simply fill out the quick interest form to share your goals, preferred times, and a little about your pet’s background. Once received, I’ll review your submission and reach out within 24 hours to schedule your first consultation. During this stage, we’ll also discuss pricing, so you pay the rate that best fits your household. My goal is to make sure that professional, science-based support is available to every family, no matter their circumstances.
2
Prepare Together
Once your appointment is confirmed, you’ll receive a brief behavior questionnaire that needs to be sent in at least 48 hours before your session. This form helps me learn more about your pet’s history, environment, and daily routines, details that are essential to building a plan tailored to your specific goals. The process is collaborative from the start — your insights give me a clearer understanding of what your pet needs to succeed and how we can create change in a way that supports your comfort, capacity, and lifestyle.
3
Meet Virtually
Your consultation takes place over Zoom, allowing you and your pet to learn from the comfort of your own home. This format often helps pets feel more relaxed and allows me to observe behavior in its natural setting. Each 60-minute session follows a structured format: 5 minutes for introductions and context-setting, 45 minutes of individualized coaching and collaborative planning, and 10 minutes to summarize takeaways and outline next steps. The structure keeps the session focused yet flexible, ensuring that your questions are answered and your goals are addressed. You’ll finish each session with clear strategies to begin applying right away.
4
Get Your Plan
After your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed written summary that captures everything we covered. It includes key strategies, actionable next steps, and recommended reading or enrichment resources tailored to your pet’s needs. Think of it as your personalized roadmap, something to revisit and refine as you continue practicing at home. Many clients find this written plan especially helpful for tracking progress, staying consistent between sessions, and sharing updates with other members of the household. It transforms what we discuss into a clear, structured path forward.
5
Continue & Grow
Behavior change is a journey, not a single moment, and I’m here to guide you through it. Follow-up sessions are available to help reinforce new habits, address emerging challenges, and strengthen the connection between you and your pet over time. These sessions are flexible and can be scheduled as needed, whether you’re celebrating progress or working through a new phase of training. Between sessions, you’ll also have access to a growing library of educational resources designed to support continued learning and confidence. The goal is lasting growth — small, steady steps that lead to understanding, harmony, and trust.
Understanding My Rates
Pricing is structured to be both fair and accessible, so every pet parent can receive professional support regardless of financial circumstances.
My fees follow a sliding scale based on self-reported household income, allowing families to choose the rate that best reflects their situation. This model helps make trauma-informed, science-based behavior care available to more homes, so financial barriers never stand in the way of a pet’s well-being.
Median Household Income
Consultation
Follow-Up Sessions
Under $35,000
$30.00
$25.00
$35,001 - $60,000
$50.00
$40.00
$60,001 - $90,000
$70.00
$60.00
Over $90,000
$90.00
$80.00
All rates include a 60-minute virtual session, individualized behavior or training guidance, and a written summary with tailored resources and next steps.
Policies and Expectations
These policies ensure that every client receives consistent, professional, and transparent service. I ask that all clients review them before scheduling to help sessions run smoothly and respectfully for everyone involved.
Payment
All sessions must be paid in advance. I issue invoices through Square, and payment is required to confirm your appointment. Once payment is received, your consultation is officially scheduled and reserved.
Cancellations and Rescheduling
You may cancel or reschedule your session without penalty if notice is provided at least 12 hours in advance. Cancellations made more than 12 hours before the scheduled session are eligible for a full refund.
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Cancellations made within 12 hours of the appointment time will incur a cancellation fee. Rescheduling within that same 12-hour window is permitted at no additional cost, provided notice is given before the session begins.
Client Eligibility
I provide training and behavior consulting for dogs and cats. Cases involving untreated medical conditions, safety concerns that require in-person assessment, or issues outside the scope of a behavior consultant (e.g. those requiring a veterinary behaviorist) may be referred to an appropriate professional resource.
Communication
Clients may reach me at any time via email or WhatsApp. I respond to all messages within 12 hours. General or brief questions are included as part of ongoing support, while inquiries requiring detailed analysis, planning, or extended discussion will be addressed through a scheduled follow-up consultation.
Confidentiality and Recordkeeping
All client information, including questionnaires, consultation notes, and communication records, is kept strictly confidential and stored securely. I do not share client information with third parties without explicit consent, except when required by law.
FAQs
Is virtual training really effective?
Yes! Virtual sessions allow you and your pet to learn in your natural home environment without the distractions or stress of unfamiliar settings. This setup often leads to faster progress, better focus, and more consistent results. You’ll receive clear guidance in real time, just as you would in person, with the added benefit of seeing behavior where it actually happens.
What does “trauma-informed” mean in the context of animal training?
In animal training, being trauma-informed means recognizing and respecting the experiences that have shaped an animal’s behavior, especially when those experiences include fear, neglect, or harm. Instead of using one-size-fits-all methods, I adjust each plan to meet the individual where they are emotionally and behaviorally.
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For example, understanding even a little about a dog’s past can reveal how certain situations trigger anxiety or defensive behavior. By acknowledging those triggers, I can design training that avoids unnecessary stress and focuses on building safety, trust, and confidence. This approach creates an environment where learning feels secure, communication stays clear, and real progress can take root.
How many sessions will my pet need?
​That depends on your pet’s goals and progress. Many clients notice meaningful improvements after just one consultation, while others benefit from several follow-up sessions to reinforce new habits and maintain consistency. We’ll review progress at the end of each session to determine what’s best for you and your pet.
What technology do I need for a virtual appointment?
You’ll need a stable Internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone (such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone), and access to Zoom. Most clients also find it helpful to have a quiet space, a few treats, and their pet’s usual equipment (like a leash or favorite toy) on hand during the session.
How should I prepare my space for the virtual session?
Choose a quiet, well-lit area with minimal distractions where your pet can relax and move comfortably. Clear enough space for demonstration or gentle activity if needed.
Can multiple pets be included in the same session?
Yes, in some cases. If your pets interact regularly or share the same environment, it can be beneficial to address their behaviors together. However, if each pet has unique challenges or requires more focused attention, I may recommend separate sessions to ensure individualized care.
Do you offer payment plans or packages?
Yes! Multi-session packages are available at a discounted rate, and my sliding scale pricing model ensures access across all income levels. We can discuss payment options during scheduling to find the arrangement that works best for your household.