Remote versus in person sessions.

 

For years I did in person visits and yes they are great.  With covid we were forced online. I really didn’t think it could be effective, and in some situations I can see how it isn’t. However I’ve adapted my approach so now doing it remotely is actually better.

 

I do still do face to face visits, but often they aren’t needed which in the long run saves you money which you can then spend on days out with your daxies, stuffed beds for them to destuff, and natural chews for them to decimate!  

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When doing face to face visits, in most cases several virtual sessions are required first to set out the foundations. This ensures a face to face visit has maximum impact.  Face to face sessions are held in Norfolk UK.

 

I find remote working allows us more time to make bigger changes. Sometimes I will suggest a face to face, but usually this is a “book a holiday and we’ll go to the beach” to tweak things type of thing rather than a formal session.  I do this a lot, and I love it! As do my clients!  (The cost…..well, if you’ve put the work in, the cost is the amount you pay for your break away and maybe a cuppa and a cake for me 😊).  I always love to meet my virtual hard working clients whether they have taken part in one of the reactivity courses or in behavioural consultations. At this point the face to face is incredibly effective as the foundations are in place and now, it is just about mastering the next steps.

Sometimes I will do Dynamic Dog Assessments in person if needed.

 

All services listed are for remote sessions.  If you want a face to face session, please reach out using the contact form.

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Why remote?

 

1.  Most of the dogs I work with struggle with a stranger being present. They wouldn’t show their true colour's because they are focused on my presence. Quite often they would be beautifully behaved and clients would say “wow, you really are the dachshund whisper” (true story).  Or, they would be really on edge about someone else being present.  By working with people remotely we work on the issues as YOU see them, and not as I see them.  This is so important. You’re perspective and your relationship of your dog is what matters and by listening to what you want and need we work hard together to address that.

2. A lot of the dogs I work with are not ready for intensive training programs. They need a lot of groundwork put in place first. Working remotely saves you money and time. 

3. I do not need to see what they are doing. Your description of it already tells me what is happening. I do understand, and you do not need to prove it to me. I believe you!

4. By not being in the room, psychologically you know YOU will need to make the changes and put in the time. Often I think people think a trainer or behaviourist will come in and ‘do it’ for them. And we can. But the issue you are struggling with is between you and your dog. I haven’t had time to create that dynamic with them, so by working remotely with support you learn how to make the right changes, what questions to ask and ultimately you are empowered. And that is the key.  You need to learn the skills, and need to learn to understand what’s going on so YOU can be the change!

5. Confidence.  You are doing it. You are responsible. You are making the difference. I am simply the guide, the translator and your moral support.  This is your success. And again, that is incredibly important. You CAN do this!

 

How does it work?

1. I ask a lot of questions.  Things you may not feel are relevant will be discussed. (Often outside of the consultation not just within a time slot!)

2. I ask for videos (where safe to do so) and carefully analyse what I am seeing.

3. I do not “cap” communications between sessions.  I am very flexible with the time I give.  But I do ask for communication.  Without the regular interactions we will fall flat. I need to get to know you.

4. We form a relationship. Perhaps I am not as “formal” or as “professional” as some.  I will absolutely tell you to put on your big girl pants.  I will absolutely tell you off. But similarly I will guide and nurture you. I will laugh with you. I will cry with you. And I will almost certainly swear too.  There is no way I can do what I do, in the way that I do it without feeling like I am part of your family.  If you want formality, and someone who is aloof, I am probably not the right person for you. I care about every one of my clients and by getting to know you I like to hope that you feel safe and motivated to work on the issues with your dogs.

5. I am honest. I do not follow a script, I pay attention to the details and rely on my experience alongside my academic knowledge.  I am not perfect, but I will always be honest with you.  Trust is important. Trust that I will never do anything (deliberately) to cause harm to you or your dogs. 

6. I will not recommend or push “book another” service.  I am useless at business admittedly, but my conscience is clear. I want the best for you and your dogs.

7. You feel safe, and therefore you trust me to guide you. You can ask questions without apology.  You can ask for clarification. And your opinion matters! (In fact, your opinion is essential!)