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A graduate of the Dog Training Internship Academy - a comprehensive program that provided me with a thorough understanding of animal behavior & learning and focused on the use of science-based training techniques to change both a dog's behavior and a dog's underlying emotional state that may be driving undesirable behavior. I'm also certified by The Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers. This requires that I have a minimum of 300 hours of experience; references from a veterinarian, client, and colleague(s); and have passed a comprehensive examination testing my knowledge of learning theory, canine ethology, animal husbandry, classroom management, and teaching techniques.

I started walktime in 2019 after working for someone else for a year because I knew that working with dogs is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Also I wanted to provide a trustworthy service that’s owner operated to people in a city full of question marks.

We cater to clients who want or need one-on-one support for their dogs because they are fearful, reactive, aggressive, or just need more attention in their care. Whether it's a walk or drop-in visit to provide company and enrichment, your pet is in good hands with a professional who has years of experience working with dogs who have behavior problems in shelter and clinical settings.

I was certified as a CPDT-KA and taught basic and intermediate skills in group classes for 17 years. Since the pandemic, I work with dog owners privately. I am a strong believer in the efficacy of positive reinforcement and continuously educate myself to strengthen my understanding of dog behavior. Teaching practicable solutions for impulse control related issues like jumping, excessive barking, leash pulling, etc are just the beginning of helping to create good communication and a strong bond between the dog and their families. Let the fun begin! Connect with me also at www.birgithafermanndogtraining.com

I'm a house-sitter for anyone that lives near public transportation in the bay area

I have been dog sitting & caring for pets for well over 30 years. We started our paid sitting in 2012 when our son wanted to pet sit to raise money for a school trip. I feel like our pets are more like children and are an expansion of our family. They deserve to showered with love, kindness & patience. I was raised in the country where we cared for a myriad of farm animals. I have worked with veterinarians assisting during surgery, medication administration and training. While I am not a paid professional trainer I have trained our last 3 dogs (2 Huskies and a Lab). I love the opportunity to meet new people and fur children and look forward to spending time with them throughout the day.

My business name was chosen because that is what we're working with in order to help every dog- the inner dog, their brain. I've been helping dogs and their human companions for 17 years. I have been privileged to work with many dogs who, presenting with a wide variety of challenges, have taught me so much, each leaving me with a legacy to pass on in helping other dogs. Creating trust allows us to teach skills, change behaviors, thus creating that special partnership between our canine friends and their human companions.

Joyful Dog works one-on-one and in group classes with people and their dogs, teaching fun ways to live together with force-free tools and techniques for creative communication. We provide training in basic manners, behavioral problem-solving, puppy socialization, and a variety of special interests. Our positive approach includes Connection, Cooperation, and Control™, a curriculum founded on Suzanne Clothier’s Relationship Centered Training techniques, and Tellington TTouch® methods of body work and movement, to help dogs achieve physical and behavioral balance. We serve an online clientele, as well as in-person in Leesburg, Loudoun and western Fairfax counties in Virginia.