FAQ
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What kind of dogs and dog owners do you work with?
I work with:
New dog owners who want a strong start.
Experienced dog owners who are facing new challenges with their current dog.
Rescue and re-home dogs of all ages who need structure, calm routines, and clear communication. -
What problems can you help with?
Loose-leash walking (so you’re not being pulled down the street).
Recall foundations (coming when called).
Jumping and over-excited greetings.
Puppy biting / mouthiness.
Building calm (settle skills).
Confidence in new environments.
Handling distractions on walks.
Household manners (counter surfing, door manners, etc.). -
How do I know if you are the right trainer for me and my dog?
I offer:
A free at-home consultation with you and your dog so we can discuss your goals, review what’s happening with your dog, and ensure my approach feels right for you. There's no pressure to commit; it’s just about finding the right fit.
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What does the free one-hour consultation include?
The free consultation is a chance to:
Meet you (and anyone involved in training).
Meet your dog and see what’s happening in real life (at home and out in the world).
Clarify your goals and what success looks like.
Confirm that what you need falls within what I offer — before anyone commits to anything.
Map out a clear plan and next steps.It’s not a full training session, but you’ll leave with 1–2 starter steps you can begin right away.
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What exactly is included for $1900
6 private sessions (90 minutes each)
Session length: 90 minutes
Sessions: 6 private sessions
Training location: in-home + real-world practice
Take-home material: training notes + short session videos
Support: quick questions between sessions
Practice spaces: field rentals included when needed -
Why are the sessions 90 minutes long?
Ninety minutes allows us to:
Coach the humans (timing, leash handling, reinforcement).
Work through real distractions without rushing.
Practice the same skill in a few different settings.
Adjust in the moment based on your dog’s energy and focus that day.
Troubleshoot setbacks calmly and adapt the plan as needed.
Leave you with clear homework that’s easy to follow. -
How often do we meet?
Most clients meet weekly. If you need more time between sessions, we can discuss that individually and adjust the schedule to fit your dog and your life.
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Will you train my dog for me, or teach me how to train?
Both—but the goal is that you become confident and capable. I'll demonstrate, coach, and adjust, but the lasting results come from what happens between sessions.
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How much homework will I have to do with my dog?
Between sessions, you’ll spend about 10 minutes a day working with your dog. This includes simple games and one weekly skill to focus on at a time. You'll receive a PDF with what to practice that week, tips and tricks to help you, and short videos from your training sessions to review as needed.
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How long does the program take to complete?
The program is designed to be completed in about 10 weeks, giving your dog time to learn and you time to practice—plus a little flexibility if a lesson needs to be moved.
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What results should I expect from this investment?
Better engagement (your dog checks in with you more).
More reliable responses to everyday cues.
Improved behaviour in everyday situations (walks, greetings, at home).
Less frustration and second-guessing.
Clear next steps to keep progress going after the program.
More confidence in handling real-life situations with your dog.Some weeks you’ll feel a big win, and some weeks you’ll feel stuck — that’s normal. We'll keep the plan simple, adjust what isn’t working, and stay focused on the next skill.
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Do you work with reactivity, fear, or aggression?
Yes, but after the in-home consultation, if I feel your dog needs a different level of support (for example, a bite history or complex aggression), I’ll tell you honestly and point you toward a trainer who specializes in those cases.
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Do you guarantee results?
Every dog is different, so I can’t guarantee specific outcomes. What I can guarantee is:
A clear, step-by-step plan tailored to your dog and your goals.
Coaching that fits your real life.
Practical skills you can repeat and understand.
Adjustments along the way based on yourdog'ss progress.
Honest feedback and support so you’re not guessing. -
How does this program compare to buying hourly private lessons?
Private dog training is often priced by the hour. This program includes six 90-minute private sessions, totalling 9 hours of one-on-one training—more time than most standard lesson packages.
The longer sessions give us time to teach skills clearly, practice them in real situations, and adjust in the moment based on what’s actually happening with you and your dog.
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Do the sessions expire?
The program is designed to be finished in 10 weeks. If you anticipate needing a longer timeline, we can discuss it during the consultation to make a plan that still supports your progress.
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Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Payment plans are available and can be discussed during our consultation. Allowing you to split the total into scheduled payments while receiving the same level of support.
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What communities do you serve?
I offer in-home training in Nanaimo, Cedar, and Ladysmith. If you're just outside these areas, reach out, and I’ll let you know if I can accommodate you.
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How do I get started?
Start with the free one-hour in-home consultation. After that, if we’re a fit and you’d like to move forward, we’ll book your first sessions and choose your start date.
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How do I contact you?
Click: “Let’s get started button and book a time on the calendar.
Email: sherri@rascalsandrescues.ca
OR Click the Contact tab and send me a message.