Featured Student
Our students are the future of dog training and the heart of our school.
That’s why we regularly take a moment to recognize one of our top aspiring trainers here.
Our Featured Student this month is Darlene Woodward of Georgetown, Massachusetts. At the time of this posting, Darlene is working on Phase 7 and is doing a phenomenal job!
A Word from Darlene
Darlene & Kota practice hand targeting.
My Favorite Recent Study Topics:
My favorite topic of study so far in the CATCH program was Understanding Dog Behavior and Body Language. I find myself continuously analyzing dog behavior and even admit to becoming much better at “reading” dogs. I thought On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals was a great addition to the study material and find myself looking back at the photos and info in this book. I am just over a week into Phase 7, Behavior Problem Solving, and I can already tell it will be another favorite! Another great book, How Dogs Learn, supplements the material. Awesome!
My Favorite Recent Hands-On Activity:
My favorite hands-on activity is teaching and working with my own/student dog, Kota. We both have loved everything from Basic Obedience Commands to Advanced Behaviors and Tricks. We even enjoy adding the clicker here and there. She has become a superstar at hand targeting (“touch”), mat training (“go to place”), and rolling on her back (“bellies”). I recently started the hands-on activity for Jumping with an 8-month-old body slamming Pointer Mix I walk several days a week. Excited to say I am already seeing improvements when I arrive at the house! Four on the floor -woohoo!
How My Studies Have Changed the Way I See Dogs:
Looking forward to continued success!
My learning experiences in the CATCH program have been invaluable in my day to day life. Learning about dog behavior and being able to pick up on “reading” signals has benefited me tremendously in my dog walking business. I’ve become much more confident with the dogs I walk and feel bonding with them has become easier. The hands-on activities have been a great addition to my dog walking, too. As for my own rescue pooch, I feel I have a much better understanding of her.
What a great team!
What I’m Most Excited About:
CATCH has been an amazing learning experience! I knew from the beginning I made the
right decision. My advisor, Marcela, has been very supportive and she knows her stuff. The program is definitely challenging with an intense curriculum. Marcela has been here for me, even when I needed to schedule a “pep talk” to get me through things like the book EXCEL-ERATED Learning which I have a love-hate relationship with! The entire student support team is knowledgeable, genuine and very positive.
Way to go, Darlene, keep up the great work!
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