Frequently Asked Questions
How much does training cost?
Training packages are created based on each individuals goals and budget. We are unable to give you a price range until we get to know you a little better. If cost is a concern, contact us so you can find out what is best for you.
What locations do we service?
We offer in person training in your home or in the communities of Northern and Southern Hampton Roads.
What if I am not local to the Hampton Roads or the Peninsula?
We provide services across the US and internationally! Our head trainer (Beckett Bowden KPA-CTP) offers virtual and in person training (client covers travel expenses). Contact us to see if this is an option you're interested in!
Why does a consultation cost $25?
The consultation is the your first contact with your trainer who has set time aside just for you to review your application with you, answer your questions and get to know you better. Your application is then kept on file for one full year so that you can take your time finding a rescue, wait for a puppy to be born, save money or get your life in order so you can be ready for this exciting journey. Talking to our administrative assistant is free, however, they cannot answer specific questions about training or cost that a qualified trainer can. Please understand that our trainers are dedicated to our clients and that their time is valuable.
What is the process to get started with training?
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a trainer in your area and fill out the application that will appear during the scheduling process. Once you talk to your trainer and you decide to move forward you will be scheduled for an assessment. During the assessment your trainer will get to know you better and can begin to talk to you about the details of a training package that is best suited for you to reach your goals. Sometimes by the end of an assessment a package has been decided on but it’s most common for a trainer to offer 3 different packages for you to review and choose from. Once a package has been signed your trainer will give you the contract and Rights and Responsibilities to sign. After the paperwork has been completed your package will be entered into our scheduling program. You will purchase your package directly from the program and will be given a code to use when scheduling your sessions. Now your ready to start training!
If I don’t already have a dog, how do I get a service dog?
We can guide you in finding a service dog if you don’t already have one. We recommend puppies from the breeder Gochee Labradors www.gocheelabs.com and puppies/dogs from the rescue NOVA Pets Alive www.novapetsalive.org. We highly recommend that if you are searching on your own for a breeder that you look for breeders that health test and use Puppy Culture.
How old does my puppy have to be to start training?
We often work with breeders to ensure that proper training is started within the first few days of life. We can have our first session of training to go over training methodology and clicker mechanics before puppy comes home. Once you have your puppy we can start training right away. It’s never too soon to start training.
Is my dog too old to train?
We prefer service dogs to be under the age of 3. If you have an older dog we will ask you the breed, health, temperament, and goals to know if your dog is a good fit for our program.
For all other training goals we do not have an age limit.
How long will it take to train my service dog?
It depends on you and your dog. How old is your dog? Where was your dog obtained? What breed is your dog? How many times a day will you be training? How many times a week will you be training? How often will you train in public? How often will you be meeting with your trainer? How much support do you have from family or friends? How active is your lifestyle? What tasks are we training for?
How long will I train until I can fly with my service dog?
We are here to help you reach your goals in the timeframe that it takes for you to understand and become fluent in the training process. Please read How long will it take to train my service dog?