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Thursday, 06 October 2011 06:03

The Trainer Diaries

Written by  Amy L. Rapp
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In the U.S, I worked with families that were considering giving up their dogs due to undesirable behaviors or new adopters looking to integrate a new dog into their family or make a transition for a rescue dog less stressful.
I spoke to or saw people for several sessions and then they signed up for a basic obedience course near their homes. (Our rescue covered about 5 states).

Here in Kenya, I have discovered what a privilege it is to work with dogs and their people during all the important transitions in their life. I am oftentimes the first person outside the immediate family to hear the news of a baby on the way, a new job on the other side of the world, or a house move. On several occasions I have helped couples that have decided to live together or get married. Most animal lovers come with pets, so oftentimes there is a pack to integrate (and you thought step kids could be difficult!)  Occasionally, I have helped to find a housegirl or gardener for someone that needed a dog- experienced staffer in their home. Occasionally I have had to help with transitioning dog/s and their routine when a marriage or partnership is breaking up. I have mediated dog-related conflicts in compound housing where the dogs were being dogs and the people were being jerks! I always knew my dog skills were great, but never knew people skills would be so important in my life working with dogs!

I have also had the privilege of being at the home of a family when they arrived home for the first time with their first child. Dog and new baby introductions went just fine and now the toddler and dog are great pals! I have been to client's housewarmings, children's birthday parties and sadly, farewell  parties for my clients when they go home or to their next posting. I have welcomed new arrivals that have taken over a previous client's house, car and even their dogs. It’s a strange, small dog world here in Nairobi, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.  


Amy L. Rapp
Companion Dog Trainer
Canine Education, Welfare and Rehoming
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
+ 254 733 255 406

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Read 191 times Last modified on Thursday, 06 October 2011 12:35

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