Whether you have a new puppy, an older dog, or in between, personal training may be the answer to these questions: Is he too reactive? A little scared? Does she not listen to your commands? Is this your first dog, or maybe your first dog with this breed?

A Certified Professional Dog Trainer—Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) can help you with these problem behaviors using science-based methods based on humane techniques. Every dog has his or her own personality and needs. Group training classes are sufficient for getting some of the basics down and for socialization. However, may owners can further benefit from individualized, one-on-one training that meets your and your dog’s personal needs. Contact me today to schedule a visit. Your dogs will thank you!

My name is Maureen Henderson; I’m CPDT-KA and a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). APDT is a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. I am also a member of The Pet Professional Guild and a certified trick dog trainer.  I received my initial training at a local shelter and have been training for 8 years.  I am also a Registered Nurse. Training is always done in a reward based positive reinforcement manner.  No aversives such as E-collar (shock collars), prong collars or choke chains are used. In my spare time, I volunteer my services with the organizations below:

• Florida Boxer Rescue
• Xoloitzcuintle Primitive Breed Rescue
• Therapy Pets Unlimited

I reside in Pinellas County along with my Lab/Chow mix, Boxer, Long Haired Chihuahua and three Xoloitzcuintles (Mexican Hairless).

With Sit, Down, Stay training is tailored to meet your dogs unique needs and requirements.  I come to your house, go to the park… whatever is required for success. I offer the below services in the greater Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. Special arrangements are required for other areas.

Sit, Down, Stay partners with other local trainers to provide extended services such as Tellington-Touch therapy, pet walking, and in-home pet sitting.

• Basic Obedience
• Advanced Obedience
• Housebreaking Issues
• Behavior Modification
• All Breeds Accepted
• AKC Approved CGC and S.T.A.R. Puppy Evaluator

Experience and Education

With no licensing or mandatory educational requirements for dog trainers, it can be difficult to determine which trainer has the experience and knowledge to best help owners with training and behavior concerns.

To become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer—Knowledge Assessed® trainers are required to provide recommendations from a veterinarian, a client, and colleagues.  In addition, they must pass a written science-based exam to demonstrate a specific body of knowledge.

The CPDT-KA® exam is reviewed and updated annually and CPDT-KAs must re-certify every two years by accumulating continuing education units.

CPDT-KAs are committed to:

• Providing accurate, truthful advertising and representations concerning qualifications, experience, performance of services, the preparation of costs of services and expected results.
• Acting honestly and ethically.
• Providing for the safety of clients and dogs during services.
• Complying with applicable laws, regulations and ethical standards governing professional practice when providing services.
• Maintaining and respecting confidentiality of information obtained from clients.
• Professional development to maintain the CPDT-KA credential.

Excellence

• Dog training certifications are not all the same.
• The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainer’s® certification is an international certification process for dog training professionals.

Certified Professional Dog Trainers—Knowledge Assessed are experienced trainers who are committed to continuing education and professional excellence.