06/01/2024
I locked the door for the last time yesterday. I cannot begin to list all the volunteers who offered assistance and support over the last month helping me pack and move. Of course, I probably slowed things down sharing stories, smiles and tears with almost every treasured object- many given to me as gifts from our JWNT family and my dear friend, Fran- now an angel watching over us. Raina's artwork, a precious gift from another angel, Linda of Team Moto, was one of the last things removed- sweet Raina watched over us until the end. Many of you have asked about how you can continue to help our friends at CINDY'S PETS check out their FB page- they need our help to feed the animals in the Pasco County Meals on Wheels program. Now for my last post: A few months ago, I called a fellow dog trainer who has been following our page. I invited her to JWNT to observe our programs and meet students and alumni. Over her many visits she has become part of our extended family and now is a close friend. I felt an instant connection as we share the same passion for positive training. We understand the importance of continued education. In anticipation of closing JWNT, I felt a responsibility to make sure our community had a qualified positive dog trainer to help them. Many of our students have begun working with Kathy at DogSpeak Dog Training and have shared with me how encouraged they are with their dog's progress. Kathy does not have a facility, she comes to your home and much like JWNT develops an action plan tailored to your dog's needs and your lifestyle. Oh, did I mention she also is a certified Pet Sitter trained in animal CPR and First Aid with years of experience and great references, and a dog walker too! Again, her services are used by many satisfied JWNT alumni. Here's her card: please keep it handy share it on pages, get it out into your neighborhoods and veterinarians & groomers make sure you tell her JWNT sent you! Advocate for dogs- there are so many trainers who lack proper credentials, safe and no harm training skills, and breed knowledge/ experience. Sadly, there is no governing body for dog trainers, basically anyone can start a business- the dogs pay the price. It's my opinion a dog does not benefit from a shock collar aka E collar 'which only tingles' another phrase used....leash pulls and jerks, prong collars, physical discipline, or verbal intimidation/ scolding. These not the methods I would use on a dog. Our area is loaded with trainers- use caution and choose wisely- your dog is counting on you to learn without pain or intimidation. You also should not have to pay literally thousands of dollars for safe and effective dog training. There are a lot of egos and hype involved in our industry. If you, like me, believe training goals can be accomplished without physical or emotional pain or punishment, and that both ends of the leash deserve to be treated with respect, contact Kathy for assistance. Check out her FB page too. * Note the recent post on her FB regarding her website. It's been an honor to be of help to you and your tail waggers. Your kind words provide such comfort. I did not make the decision to close the school lightly. Most people look forward to retirement, I looked forward to every day spent helping a dog! It never has felt like work to me. Thank you JWNT family and friends for being such an important part of my dream to help dogs, the people who love them, and paying it forward in our community, Mission Accomplished:) I leave you with one of my favorite quotes make that your last homework assignment:)... Be the person your dog thinks you are!
