deeper understanding creates a terrific team

“Capitol Hill has its own dog whisperer! When I adopted my little dog Spencer a year ago, I had never owned a dog before.  At the same time, Spencer was fresh out of a pretty dreadful kennel. His frenetic energy and face-licking I interpreted as friendliness and happiness. Bonny King-Taylor helped me to see that Spencer was instead confused and anxious and desperate.  Her knowledge of dog psychology is so profound that she quickly and convincingly interpreted him to me, trained me in the basics of becoming the kind of leader a dog seeks, taught me how (with infinite patience) I could teach Spencer to walk with me companionably and without pulling or jerking at the leash, and gave me a copy of her wonderful doggy handbook.

One year later, Spencer remains friendly and active, but the anxiety has been replaced by the kind of peacefulness that makes him a perfect companion.  Those of us who live on Capitol Hill have much to be grateful for, and having Bonny King-Taylor here to work with us and our dogs is near the top of my own gratitude list.”

~Barbara A. Mowat

Barbara, I am humbled by your words. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Spencer and for allowing me to help the two of you to become the delightful team that you are. A first dog can be overwhelming, but you and that adorable little guy learned quickly and your dedication to his well-being is inspiring.

 

Puppy preparation makes all the difference

“Fred is a wonderful puppy that entered my life about 4 months ago.  Along with being a bit rusty, Fred’s personality was very different from my previous dog and what had worked then was not working now.  Bonny observed our personalities and how we interacted then tailored a training program for us.  Especially helpful was her leash training technique; walks are now a pleasure for all!

Bonny is very knowledgeable about dog behavior and her training sessions are highly valued because she helps you understand how dogs think and how they react  to different stimuli.  With the arsenals of training techniques that Bonny provided, Fred is well on his way to becoming a great dog.  I would highly recommend Bonny to anyone who is interested in training their dog.  Thank you Bonny!”

~Lynn

Lynn, you and Fred are delightful! Thank you so much for letting me help you learn how to work together. You are both so sweet and willing to learn, it was a treat to see your confidence grow.

Helping Buddy and His New Kitty Housemate

Buddy’s dad and Anastasia’s mom moved in together. They were nervous about the handsome dog and little kitty getting along in the new house. After an hour of working out house routines, and sharing specific tools for managing problems, everyone was able to relax and enjoy their new digs.

“As for Buddy (above) and Anastasia, (the kitty) you helped them both! And of course I’ll certainly recommend you to anyone who might need some pet assistance!”

~Josh

Thanks Josh! It was a treat working with you the family. I’m not a cat expert, but was very happy to help all the species in your house to get along.

 

Lloyd and Johnny sleep in their own beds

“Bonny, You will never believe what happened last night!  I decided that last night was the night to introduce Lloyd to sleeping in his own bed.

I moved one of the round dog beds (the kind that has sides) to a spot on the floor next to my side of my bed which happens to be away from where Johnny’s “house” is located.  We put Johnny in his house and then turned to Lloyd who was settling in on OUR bed.  I told Lloyd to go to his spot (which he knows to be that dog bed). I set it up with one of my tshirts and the blanket that he usually sleeps on when in our bed.  Of course I had a treat ready to reward him. Lloyd quickly jumped into HIS bed, was rewarded and then STAYED THERE….ALL NIGHT!

He even got up during the middle of the night to get a drink of water.  When he came back into the bedroom, he did jump on our bed but only to avoid having to walk past Johnny in his house and proceeded to get back in his own dog bed!!!  I can’t tell you how amazed and shocked Justin and I were that it was just THAT easy!”

-Tara

Tara, you know I am totally in love with Lloyd. And Johnny is a firecracker. You and Jason have proven that, with a little faith, great changes can be made. Keep up the great work!

 

No more whining or pulling for sweet Fiona

“Thanks, Bonny, Fiona and I have had a great day of sit, down (all the way), wait- and treats. She’s totally in to it, and staying out of the kitchen!

We had some great off-leash times in the park today. You’ve really set us on a good course. I was even able to stop the “meal whining” with a single phrase and the hand and it lasted!

Thanks much.  Amazing how a pocket full of treats keeps her focused on me and not the cigarette butts on the ground as we walk. ”
-Dottie

Dottie, you and Fiona are the kind of success story that makes me love what I do. You asked how long it would take to get Fiona to do what you asked. I said, “She’ll do it roughly 30 seconds after you decide that she is going to.” You took up the challenge and positive change happened in a snap! Thank you so much for helping your girl to understand her job.

Preparing Porterhouse for His Baby Sister

“It’s amazing, Porterhouse has been a doll since you were here. We have all commented on how calm and different he has been!!

He’s a very smart boy and I absolutely know that he picked up what you were trying to do and why you were here. I also think he may be turning up the charm a bit since things feel differently with all the baby stuff around.

We have been putting into practice some things that you said and be consistent about it. I bought a bag of skweekers from Chateau Animaux and he’s been very responsive to that.

We’ve also been very strict with the sofa and him entering the baby’s room as well.”
-Amber

Amber, Porterhouse is one of my very favorite doggy lama dogs. Your dedication to his discipline and well-being is an inspiration. He’ s lucky to have such a smart cookie on his side!