More of a pet psychologist than dog trainer, Theresa Reiter recently relocated with her husband Tim, their two Italian Greyhounds, Jordan and Honor, and her business, ‘Dogmandu’ ‘Family Dog Training’ from Pennsylvania to South Pasadena. After more than eight years in dog training, she thought she had seen it all. “Florida has some unusual challenges for pets. I was busy this summer teaching dogs how to swim in the family pool. Several clients were high energy Labradoodles who needed a way to exercise during the summer heat,” says Theresa. “I never had to help dogs get over their fear of swimming pools in Pennsylvania.”
Theresa gives group seminars on topics like dog park safety, low stress handling for vets and groomers, and private lessons for behavior problems like excessive barking, pulling on the leash, come when called and teaching dogs how to handle going out to pet friendly dining spots and events. She adds, “I love living in a neighborhood where dogs are welcome at so many restaurants and businesses.” She is also an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator.
Committed to life-long-learning, Theresa keeps current on the latest training and techniques by attending seminars, workshops and networking with other positive trainers. ‘Dogmandu’ is a full member of the Pet Professional Guild, whose members and affiliates focus on pet’s physical, mental, environmental and nutritional well being, a holistic approach to the care and training of family pets. Theresa is committed to using science-based, force free methods. NO choke, prong or shock collars, preferring to use well-researched, least intrusive methods to change problem behaviors. “Dogs don’t speak English, it’s not that they can’t follow your household rules, they don’t understand what the rules are. My goal is to teach you and your dog to work together to form a trusting successful relationship” says Theresa.
Theresa has a file full of positive references from happy clients, such as this one from St. Pete Beach resident Anna Yardley, “Theresa is an excellent force-free trainer. She has helped train my dogs and also taught me to understand their language so I can continue the process. It is extremely rewarding to watch behavior improve when you learn how your dog ‘thinks’. If you’re ready to be a better friend to your best friend, give her a call!”
If your neighbor’s dog has a problem, suggest they read page 20 in the February Paradise NEWS, or tear it out and hand them this article and ask if you can call to set up a consult with the new dog psychologist in town.
If you have challenges with mutual understanding or you want your dog to overcome a phobia or to stop barking incessantly when you are away, call Theresa for a FREE, no-obligation consultation at 610-248-0467 email info@dogmandu.net or visit www.dogmandu.net.
Story by Peter A. Roos.