What sets Ruff to Ready apart from other dog behavior consultants?

  • Founder Amanda has extensive education and experience in canine behavior.
  • Multiple credentials highlight commitment to high-quality service.
  • Unique approach includes:
  • Personalized in-home evaluations
  • Comprehensive behavior assessments
  • Compassionate towards every dog owner
  • All methods are evidence-based and modern.

How long does an in-home evaluation session last?

  • Our first meeting can take up to 2 hours and will go into more detail than future sessions.

Why does the consultation take up to 2 hours?

Amanda Lunsford looks into what’s causing your dog’s behavior by considering both good and bad stress factors. She then creates easy-to-follow plans that work for both you and your dog. Here’s a quick overview of what happens during the appointment and how she makes the process simple and effective for everyone.

  • When Amanda arrives she will call you and let you know what to do next.
  • Next, we start by talking about things that might be affecting how your dog acts. This could take about 30-45 minutes.
  • After some discussion, Amanda will meet your dog and check for things like what makes them stressed or excited.
  • Then we try out different ways to help improve your dog’s behavior and see what works best for you both.
  • Finally, we will collaborate and discuss some tips and a plan for how to keep making progress.

Do you offer any guarantees?

  • Changing your dog’s behavior is a team effort and takes time. If you’re stuck, you can send Amanda videos to show what’s going on. She’ll review them and may suggest a new approach.
  • Staying in touch between appointments is key to making progress.
  • Please note that because everyone’s situation is different and dedication from all parties effects the dogs behaviors. Therefore, Amanda can’t promise or guarantee specific behavior changes.

How frequently are the weekly check-ins, and what do they involve?

  • Weekly check-ins are available for free and happen once a week.
  • Each check-in lasts about 10 minutes.
  • We’ll discuss how things are going, give you feedback, and change your plan.

What are your policies on cancelations or rescheduling?

  • If you need to cancel, please let us know at least 24 hours in advance.
  • There’s a $20 charge for canceling an appointment.
  • If you ask for a refund, there will also be a $20 fee.

Do you offer services for professional pet facilities?

Yes, we offer comprehensive assessments, staff training, and recommendations for facility enhancements.

How often should I engage with Ruff to Ready for optimal results?

  • How often you’ll need our help depends on your situation and your dog’s needs.
  • We aim to help you and your dog get along well and make lasting improvements.

I’m facing a specific challenge not mentioned on your site. Can you help?

  • Yes, we can create a special plan just for you and your dog. Contact us to talk about what you need.

How do I get started?

  • To get started, go to the ‘Contact Us’ section on our website and fill in some basic information. We’ll call or email you to talk about what comes next.

The appointment listed on the website is too far out. Can I schedule sooner?

  • If the next available appointment on our website is too far away, just go to our ‘Contact Us’ page and give us some information. We’ll get in touch to see if we can fit you in sooner.

 What methods do you use for behavior assessment?

  • We use a mix of different tests to understand your dog’s behavior. These include the SAFER test, the Good Citizen test, and parts of the American Temperament Test.

Who influences your approach to canine behavior?

I am influenced by a range of experts, including but not limited to:

  • Dr. Jim Crosby
  • Dr. Chris Pachel
  • Suzanne Clothier
  • Simone Mueller (MA, ATN. AG)
  • Jessica Wheatcraft (CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA)
  • Dr. Rise VanFleet
  • Jennifer Shryock (B. A, CDBC)
  • Helen St. Pierre (CDBC, CPDT-KSA, OSCT)
  • Dr. Patricia McConnell
  • Dr. Karen Overall
  • Dr. Temple Grandin
  • Dr. Simon Gadboi
  • Dr. Amy Cook
  • Michael Shikashio
  • Anthoney DeMarinas
  • Leslie McDevitt (MLA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, TAG teach Level 2)
  • Dr. Alexandra Horowitz
  • Dr. Debbie Torraca
  • Emily Strong and Allie Bender
  • Grisha Stewart (MA, CPDT-KA)
  • Pat Miller
  • Trish McMillan (M.A., CPDT-KA)

Equipment

Ruff to Ready Dog Training has the right to refuse to work with certain equipment. We believe in the ASVAB position statement, and utilize LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) training and behavior work.

Due to the severity and safety of the public, it would be extremely rare for us to use positive punishment methods such as shock, prong, or choke collars. We have not needed to use these within our training thus far, and do not believe the animal should be punished while showing signs of fear or high states of stress. We will be realistic with expectations within the resources we have available, and we will not use punishment to increase our expectation of time for the animal to learn faster.

Client’s Rights

The client has the right to refuse any part of the functional assessment, training class, and/or behavior change program including any training exercises they feel are inappropriate. It is recommended that the client openly communicates any questions or concerns with Ruff to Ready Dog Training about the behavior change or training program. The client has the right to ask further questions and be clear on all relevant details before consenting to the consulting relationship.

Service Acknowledgement

There are no guarantees with behavior. True behavior change takes time, consistency, and a proactive approach. We use food almost exclusively in behavior modification with animals because it is documented as the most effective and humane method. Safety is our priority for all animals and humans. Ruff to Ready Dog Training believes in order for true behavior change to occur, the welfare of all animals and humans must come before training skills (unless these are emergency skills implemented). We may refer you to see:

  • Your veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist depending on the severity of the case. 
  • Virtual trainer for safety and comfort level of all parties involved. 
  • Another local trainer who may be a better fit for your case, depending on their specialty and fit for your case. See our philosophy on training methods and working with other trainers.

Photos and Videos

Ruff to Ready Dog Training often takes photos and video and may choose to post on social media. You must notify us at the time of registration if you do not want photos and video shared.