ANNA READ
BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATIONS

 

Anna Read

01483 53 86 53

07763 373 322

Anna.read@sky.com

www.in-the-dog-house.org.uk

  
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Behaviour Problems Include:
Aggression towards people or dogs
Fighting/rough play in the house
Anti Social Behaviour
Fears and Phobias
Repetitive behaviour (shadow or tail chasing, obsessive feet licking)
Guarding Territory
Possessive over food or toys
Nervousness
Agoraphobia
Stealing
Chasing inc traffic, joggers, bicycles, etc
 

 

A “behaviour problem” is any behaviour your dog carries out that cannot be tolerated (either by yourself or the general public). This could be anything from a minor nuisance, like pulling on the lead, to the more serious biting people or other dogs.

A typical first behavioural consultation normally lasts around 2 to 3 hours and includes a good walk with your dog. I prefer to conduct the initial session at my place for several reasons. Most importantly, I can offer you and your dog increased safety in a location familiar to me. I also have several dogs available to me to help in dealing with dog aggression cases. Another benefit is that I can rule out territoriality if your dog still shows the behaviour in my territory. I can always arrange a home visit at a later date if necessary.

During this session I will be attempting to find out about:

  • The problems you are experiencing with your dog

  • What may have caused this problem

  • If your dog has seen a vet about the problem

  • Any medical problems your dog may have or has had

  • Your dog’s background

  • Your routines at home

  • How you and your family interact with your dog

  • How you interact with your dog on a walk.

We will discuss how and why the problems have developed and techniques to change this behaviour and maintain acceptable behaviour. A behaviour modification plan (or program) will then be suggested and agreed upon during the consultation.

As every dog and owner has an individual relationship and lives in a unique environment I find it helpful to tailor a behaviour program to specifically suit you and your dog. This also ensures that you will not be doing anything which you are uncomfortable or unable to do.

What happens after the consultation? A follow-up visit can be booked at the time of the consultation. It is impossible to say how long it takes to solve a problem as this depends on many factors: the length of time the pet has had the problem, severity of the problem, type of problem, amount of time available to dedicate to changing behaviour, etc. However no problem can be solved without a lot of time, patience and effort being put in by the owner/family… unfortunately I don't have a magic wand!

We understand how distressing it can be when your pet doesn't behave the same way that other dogs do. Therefore, I like owners to keep me updated regularly and call me when they feel they need help or want to ask a question.

We also run walking groups specifically for our clients with difficult dogs and dogs that need extra attention (naughty dogs don't teach other naughty dogs anything they don't already know!!). This is a great opportunity for us to monitor you and your dog's progress, as well as, a chance for you to get back your confidence when handling your dog. Here we can also show you the best techniques to use when walking your dog in the exact place you need help! Nobody has to feel embarrassed as everyone is in the same boat.

Walks cost £10 and are currently run on Saturdays at 13.30pm at Blackheath (near Wonersh, Guildford). Please call or text Glenn on 07735 584 684 to book a place on one of these walks as spaces are limited. Two instructors attend these walks. (Although every attempt is made to keep this website up to date, times are subject to change so please call to double check).

Clients that have attended a consultation and assessment are welcome to join us on our day time walks, by appointment. Again, this is a great opportunity for us to monitor progress and continue to help for as long as clients feel they need it. (£10 per walk to cover our time and insurance costs).

How much does a behaviour consultation cost?

A one off payment of £150 which gives you support for the dog’s lifetime and/or for as long as you own the dog (non-transferable).

Aggression cases cost £300 as these often require more time. Two instructors are on hand to ensure maximum safety of everyone involved, including any dogs used, as well as your dog.

We will provide you with as many sessions as required to solve or help you manage the problem you are having. This includes call-outs, email, text and/or telephone support whenever you feel you need it.

Sometimes it would benefit your dog (or your circumstances) to attend a specific class alongside your behaviour program (such as obedience classes, walking groups, re-call group, one-to-one training, etc). These are charged at the normal course rate.


If you feel you need a behaviour consultation or advice about your dog’s behaviour, please ring Anna on 07763 373 322