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Certified dog trainer
Colleen Fisher
Colleen Fisher

Colleen Fisher

Colleen Fisher obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1990 from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. She developed a special interest in working dog behavior through her engagement with a number of police canine units, detector dog agencies, and assistance animal organizations and the Canadian Task Force 4 (Manitoba) Urban Search and Rescue Team. She received her MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh in 2019. Her research focused on the ability of psychiatric (PTSD) service dog handlers and search and rescue dog handlers to recognize stress in their canine partners and the potential for improved service dog training.

Training Philosophy

Colleen Fisher believes that stopping "bad behaviour" with punishment will not help in the long-term. She emphasizes the importance of developing a plan that encourages dogs and cats to offer appropriate behaviours in exchange for positive rewards. She also stresses the importance of the human-animal bond and teaches owners how to read canine and feline body language and communicate with their pets.

Services

Colleen Fisher offers a range of behavior services for dogs and cats, including:

  • Socialization: Helping dogs and cats learn to interact appropriately with other animals and people.
  • Service Dog Training: Providing specialized training for dogs working in animal-assisted therapy or as full-time service dogs.
  • Behavior Modification: Addressing a variety of behavior problems, such as aggression, anxiety, and destructive behavior.

Certifications

Colleen Fisher is Fear Free Elite Certified, a member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

Specializations

Colleen Fisher specializes in working dog behavior, particularly service dog training and the recognition of canine emotion by handlers.

Training Methods

Colleen Fisher uses positive reinforcement methods, focusing on rewarding desired behaviors and building a strong bond between the owner and their pet.

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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