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What To Bring / ExpectHere Is Some Information To Help Your Lesson Run Smoother. Before Your Lesson Please: -Send Vet Records: Rabies + DHPP Shots Text : 770-625-1521 or Email: WillowCreekDogTraining@gmail.com Please include your full name, and dog's name when sending records. -Be Transparent About Any Major Behavioral Issues Such As Aggression or Reactivity. ​ The Day Of Your Lesson: -Do Not Feed Your Dog(s) At Least 3 Hours Prior To Your Lesson. Please Have: -Your Dog(s) on a 4-6ft Leash: (No Flexis) -High Reward Treats: Example Boiled Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken/Beef/Salmon, Turkey Hot Dogs, or Cheese (Please do not just bring dry treats.) My Favorite High Value Training Treats are Boiled, Baked and/or Freeze Dried Chicken! -Training Treat Pouch: Optional but Highly Recommended. You can get them on amazon, any pet store, or use a nail apron. I recommend Paw Lifestyle or Mighty Paw Training Treat Pouch from Amazon. -Water + Bowl For Your Dog is recommended Please Arrive At Least 5 Mins Early: So we can begin on time. If you are late, it will run into your training time. Please Text Me When You Arrive, and If you are running late. **If you are more than 10 mins late, and I do not hear from you, your lesson will be canceled. Duration: Please plan on one hour. Number of Lessons/Training Plan will be recommended at the first lesson. Custom Lesson Packages Can Be Made. Baseline Pricing Can Be Found On: Private Lesson Page Cancellation Policy: Must Cancel or Reschedule at the minimum of 4 hours prior. Or you will be charged a $50 fee.
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What Payment Methods Do You Accept?Payment Methods: Zelle: WillowCreekDogTraining@gmail.com -Exact Cash -Card Payment will have a 2.99% Fee Training collars will be available for purchase at your lesson. We no longer accept Venmo
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In-Home Private Lessons:In Home Private Lessons: Custom Location Travel Fees: All In-Home or Custom Location Lessons 15 Miles Outside Winters Mountain Road, Dahlonega Will Have an Additional Travel Fee. ​ Location: Please Text Me Your Address At Least 24 Hours Prior To Your Lesson. Please let me know if there are any particular places your want me to park. Please have your dog(s) in a crate or on a leash when I arrive. ​
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Bark Camp Farm Location: Private LessonsBark Camp Farm Location: Address: 4294 Hunter Road, Gainesville GA 30504 Parking: Please park behind the white fence in the grass to the left, past the orange cone (if the cone is there). If you have 4-Wheel Drive you can park down the slope, next to my car. (All Group Classes are held here) Wear Appropriate Clothing: Sneakers and a hat is recommended. The training area is outdoors, and is not handicap accessible. Please let me know if this is an issue. During Spring and Winter Months boots and a coat is recommended. Weather Changes: Because the lesson is outdoors, if it is pouring, above 95 degrees or below 20 degrees, we will reschedule or push the lesson to later in the evening if I have an availability. I will text you the day of the lesson if we need to reschedule. Please text me when you arrive, and keep your dog in the car until further instructions. ​
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McEver Road -Office Location: Private LessonsMy Office Location: Address: 3485 McEver Road, Gainesville GA 30504 Parking: Please park in the upper parking lot. Please keep your dog in the car, and text me when you arrive. ​
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Who Should Attend The Dog Training Sessions?Everyone involved in your dog's life should come to the training sessions. This includes family members, kids, roommates, and anyone who frequently interacts with your dog. It's important that everyone who interacts with your dog understands how to continue this training outside of the sessions. Additionally, having everyone attend the sessions helps ensure consistency in your dog's training and reinforces the importance of following through with the training techniques at home.
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Are Children Allowed To Come To Lesson?Yes, kids that are willing to participate are more than welcome to come! Kids that have something to do, and will not be disruptive are also welcome. However, children under the age of 6 are not recommended, unless approved by the trainer. Children that are disruptive will be asked to leave to ensure the safety of the dogs and the effectiveness of the training session. It is important to note that children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times during the training session.
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How Many Private Lesson Do I Need?The number of lessons your dog will need depends on several factors, including your training goals, your dog's age, temperament, and any behavioral issues they may have. Some dogs may learn quickly and require only a few lessons, while others may need more time and practice to master certain skills. We will work with you to develop a customized training plan that is tailored to your dog's individual needs and goals. Our trainer will help you determine the optimal number of lessons to help you achieve success in your training journey.
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Are Proof Of Vaccinations Required?Yes, you must submit your dog's vet records before training starts. All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations for their age, this is to ensure the safety and health of all dogs. If you do not do this, your lesson may be rescheduled. Please text them to 770-625-1521 or email them to WillowCreekDogTraining@gmail.com (Please include your name, your dog's name. ) If your dog is not up to date, please consult with your veterinarian to get them current on their vaccinations. Please let me know if your puppy is not old enough for any of the following vaccinations yet: Required Vaccinations: -Rabies 1 or 3 year (Per your veterinarian) -DHPP - (Distemper / Parvo combination booster) - 1 or 3 year (Per your veterinarian)
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The Client's WavierThis is to certify that the Client voluntarily agrees to participate in the Dog Training lesson or course under the supervision of Willow Creek Dog Training. 2. The Client is fully aware of the general risks and dangers associated with the nature of Training. Thus, the client shall participate in the Training at his/her own risk and subject to the terms herein. 3. The Client Agrees to be responsible for his/her conduct, the conduct of his/her dog(s) and the conduct of others accompanying them (Including minor children) at all times. 4. The Client waives all rights against any and all legal claims that may arise due to his/her involvement in the Training. Since dogs are animals and can be unpredictable, the client understands and agrees that Willow Creek Dog Training, and Bark Camp Farm are not liable for any potential risk and hazards that the Client and his/her dog(s) may sustain. 5. The Client Agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Willow Creek Dog Training Services and Bark Camp Farm for any and all demands, costs, and expenses that the client may bring upon in the future. 6. The Client Agrees to be transparent about any major behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression and/or reactivity. If the client is aware of their's dog's bite history, the dog must wear a muzzle during the training. The client agrees if his/her dog(s) injures a Willow Creek Dog Training employee, volunteers, or anyone associated or participating with Willow Creek Dog Training, as well and any person on the property, the Client will be liable for a minimum of $500 compensation, as well as any medical bills related to any such injury that occurs to any participant, volunteer, employee or person on the property. ​ Willow Creek Dog Training, and its employees, agree to do their absolute best to prevent any injury, risk or accident to the Client, to other persons participating in the training or on the property where the training is taking place, or to any dog.
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What Is Your Cancellation Policy?We understand that things come up, you get sick and schedules change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your lesson, please do so at least 4 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. If you do not cancel or reschedule within 4 hours of your lesson, a $50 fee will be charged. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
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Can You Train My Dog To Be A Service Dog?While it is certainly possible for some dogs to become service dogs, it is important to understand that not every dog is cut out for this type of work. It takes a very rare and specific set of traits and abilities to be a successful service dog. Additionally, training your own service dog can take years of consistent effort and is not a guarantee. However, I am happy to assist with public access training.
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Do You Use Positive Reinforcement Or Corrections In Your Training Programs?We believe in using a balanced approach to dog training. We primarily use rewards and positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, but we also recognize the need for corrections when necessary. Our goal is to create a well-behaved, happy dog that responds to commands and enjoys interacting with their human family. We work with each dog and their owner to determine the best training approach to meet their specific needs and goals. Our training methods focus on building trust, establishing clear communication, and creating a strong bond between the dog and their owner. If you have any questions about our training programs or methods, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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Can You Help Me With The Process of Adopting a Dog vs Buying From a Breeder?Yes, I can definitely help with that! Choosing whether to adopt or buy from a breeder is a big decision and there are many factors to consider. I can guide you through the process of deciding what type of dog would be best for your lifestyle and personality, as well as help you find reputable breeders or adoption agencies. I also offer advice on preparing for a new puppy, including what supplies to purchase and how to puppy-proof your home. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to schedule an over-the-phone meeting with me.
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What Are Your Hours Of Operation?All Hours of Operation Vary Per Week Depending on Group Classes, Time of the Year and Holidays/Time Off *We are Closed on Friday Afternoons, Saturday Afternoons, All Sundays, and All Major Holidays / Weekends Phone Hours: Monday - Thursday 11am to 4pm ​
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What are your hours of operation for private training sessions?Each week's hours may vary, but typical private lessons are scheduled: Monday - Thursday from 10:30am to 8pm Friday - Saturday from 8am to 11am
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What Is The Best Way To Contact Willow Creek Dog Training?Texting 770-625-1521 at the beginning of the week (Monday - Wednesday) is the most reliable way to reach out and receive a timely response. (Messages Thursday - Sunday may not get a response until Monday) If you have any questions or concerns about dog training, feel free to reach out and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
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Are In-Home Lessons Better For My Dog Than Going To A Training Facility?In-home lessons can be a great option for many dogs and their owners. They offer a more personalized and individualized approach to training, as the trainer can work with you and your dog in your own environment. This can be especially beneficial for young puppies that may not be fully vaccinated, reactive or aggressive dogs, dogs that do not travel well, and those with multi-dog households. In-home lessons also allow the trainer to observe and address specific behaviors that may be unique to your home environment. But ultimately it depends on your individual dog's needs and temperament.
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Can Old Dogs Learn New Tricks?Yes, old dogs can actually learn new tricks. There is no age limit when it comes to training dogs. In fact, older dogs tend to be more patient and focused, making them great candidates for learning new skills. It is important to approach training older dogs with patience and understanding, taking into account any physical limitations they may have. With consistent training, older dogs can learn new tricks and behaviors just as effectively as younger dogs.
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At What Age Can I Start Training My Puppy?According to the law, a puppy must stay with their mother until they are 8 weeks old. This means that any training before that age is not typical. However, once your puppy is 8 weeks old or older, in-home lessons can begin. For those who are located near the my location, training sessions can start when the puppy is 14 weeks old. All puppies MUST be up-to-date on vaccinations for their age. It's important to note that starting training early can help establish good habits and prevent bad behavior from developing.
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How Long Will Training Take?The length of time it takes to train a dog varies depending on several factors. Firstly, it depends on your specific goals for training your dog. Some dogs may only need basic obedience training, while others may require more advanced training for specific tasks or behaviors. Secondly, your dog's age and temperament can also impact the length of time it takes to train them. Puppies may be easier to train since they are still learning and developing, while older dogs may have established habits that are harder to break. Lastly, your own skills and determination as a trainer can also play a role in how long it takes to train your dog. Consistency and patience are key when it comes to dog training, and the more time and effort you put into training your dog, the faster you will see results. In general, most dogs can be trained within a few weeks to a few months for basic obedience and manners. However, it's important to remember that every dog is unique and may require more or less time depending on their individual needs. At Willow Creek Dog Training, we work with you and your dog to create a personalized training plan that fits your specific goals and needs.
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How Often Should I Practice Training With My Dog?We recommend practicing training 1-4 times a day for 2-15 minutes each session. Always end on a good note! Consistency and repetition are key in teaching your dog new behaviors and reinforcing good habits. It's important to keep training sessions short and fun to prevent your dog from becoming bored or frustrated. Regular training sessions will help strengthen your bond between them, and improve their overall behavior.
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I've Been Training My Dog For A Few Weeks Now, but I'm Not Seeing The Results I Want. What Could Be The Issue?There may be a few variables that contribute to not seeing the training results you want. First, there may not be consistency in the household. If multiple people are interacting with your dog and giving him different commands or rules, it can confuse them and hinder their progress. Second, there may be accidental reinforcement of bad behaviors. For example, if your dog jumps on you and you give them attention even if it's negative attention, they may continue to jump because they are still getting attention from you. Third, you may not be putting in the work. Training takes time, patience, and consistency. If you're not dedicating enough time to training, your dog may not be learning as quickly as you'd like. Lastly, your dog may need more time. Every dog is different, and some may take longer to learn certain commands or behaviors. It's important to remember to be patient and consistent in your training efforts.
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What Is The Difference Between a Service Dog, an Emotional Support Dog, and a Therapy Dog?A service dog is a dog that is trained to help one person with a life altering disability. They are trained to perform specific tasks that mitigate the person's disability. Service dogs are allowed to go anywhere with their handler, including restaurants, stores, and on public transportation. An emotional support dog is a dog that supports a person emotionally just by being there. They provide comfort and companionship to their owner. Emotional support dogs do not require any specific training and are not allowed to go everywhere with their owner like a service dog can. A therapy dog is a dog that helps multiple people. They are often used in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools to provide comfort and emotional support to those in need. Therapy dogs must be trained and certified to work in these environments. They are not considered service dogs and do not have the same rights to access public places.
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