Training Consultations

Welcome to the Training Advice section of Riverness Animal Consulting! Our goal is to provide comprehensive support to pet owners at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re welcoming a new pet into your home or looking to refine your existing pet’s skills, we’re here to help.

New Pet

Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Our consultations offer vital guidance on how to create a welcoming environment that meets your new companion’s needs, including setting up a safe space, selecting appropriate supplies, and establishing routines that foster security. We also provide essential training tips tailored to your pet's age and temperament, helping you address common behaviours and set the foundation for a positive relationship. By equipping you with knowledge on socialisation, basic commands, and house training, we ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry family member, laying the groundwork for a happy and harmonious life together.

Jumping/Pawing

Jumping and pawing can be common issues for many pets, especially when they’re excited, often leading to unintentional mishaps during greetings or playtime. Our training sessions focus on understanding the underlying causes of these behaviours and implementing effective management strategies. We teach your pet alternative, more appropriate behaviours, such as sitting or offering a paw when greeting people, reinforcing these with positive rewards. By redirecting their energy and excitement, we help your pet learn to express their enthusiasm in a way that is both respectful and enjoyable for everyone involved, making interactions more pleasant and reducing the chances of accidents or unwanted attention.

Introductory to Advanced Obedience

Our obedience training programs are designed to cater to pets of all skill levels, from those just beginning their training journey to seasoned companions ready to learn advanced skills. We prioritise positive reinforcement techniques, creating a supportive environment that encourages your pet to learn and thrive. Through engaging and enjoyable sessions, your pet will master essential commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” which are foundational for good behaviour and safety. As they progress, we introduce more complex behaviours and tricks, ensuring a well-rounded education that not only enhances obedience but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. This holistic approach fosters confidence and makes training a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend.

Loose Lead Walking

Enjoying walks with your pet should be a pleasurable experience rather than a constant battle of tugging and pulling. Our loose lead walking training is designed to instil good leash manners, teaching your pet to walk calmly and confidently by your side. We utilise positive reinforcement techniques to encourage your pet to stay focused and relaxed during walks, rewarding them for maintaining a loose lead. Through consistent practice and guidance, we help eliminate unwanted behaviours like pulling, lunging, or weaving, making outings more enjoyable for both you and your pet. This training not only enhances your walking experience but also strengthens your bond, allowing for peaceful exploration of your surroundings together.

Harness Training

Harness training is an excellent option for dogs and other pets, providing comfort and safety while on walks. Our consultations guide you in selecting the right harness for your pet's size, breed, and specific needs, ensuring a proper fit that enhances their walking experience. Once the harness is chosen, we focus on acclimating your pet to wearing it, using positive reinforcement to create a positive association. Throughout the training process, we emphasise leash manners, teaching your pet to walk calmly and confidently without pulling. This approach not only promotes safe and enjoyable walks but also helps prevent potential injuries, making outings more relaxed and fun for both you and your furry friend.

Trick Training

Trick training is a delightful and engaging way to bond with your pet while teaching them a range of new skills. Our sessions are designed to accommodate all levels, introducing a variety of tricks that can range from simple commands like “shake” or “roll over” to more advanced skills like “play dead” or even agility tasks. This interactive training not only enhances your pet’s mental stimulation but also strengthens your relationship through shared activities and accomplishments. By using positive reinforcement techniques, we ensure that your pet enjoys the learning process, making it a fun and rewarding experience. Trick training also provides a great outlet for energy and can be a wonderful way to impress friends and family with your pet’s newfound abilities!

Recall

A reliable recall is essential for your pet's safety, especially in open environments where distractions abound. Our training methods emphasise building a strong foundation for recall, teaching your pet to return to you promptly and consistently when called. We utilise positive reinforcement techniques, making the process enjoyable and rewarding for your pet, so they learn to associate coming back with positive experiences, such as treats and praise. Through gradual desensitisation to distractions and practice in various environments, we help your pet develop a reliable recall that you can trust, giving you confidence when allowing them off-leash. This skill not only enhances your pet’s freedom but also ensures their safety in any situation, fostering a stronger bond of trust between you and your furry companion.

Crate Training

Crate training is a valuable tool that provides a safe space for your pet while also aiding in house training and managing behaviour. Our approach includes step-by-step guidance to help your pet acclimate to their crate, ensuring they feel comfortable and secure. We focus on creating a positive association with the crate by incorporating treats, toys, and praise, making it a welcoming haven rather than a place of confinement. Through gradual exposure and short periods of crate time, we help your pet learn to view their crate as a cosy retreat where they can relax and feel safe. This training not only assists with house training by encouraging your pet to hold it until they are let outside, but it also provides peace of mind for you, knowing your pet has a designated space that promotes their well-being and reduces anxiety.

Travel Training

Travelling with pets can present challenges, but with the right training, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Our travel training program is designed to acclimate your pet to various travel scenarios, whether it’s car rides, bus journeys, or trips on public transport. We focus on gradually introducing your pet to the sights, sounds, and sensations associated with travel, using positive reinforcement to encourage calm and relaxed behaviour. Through practice sessions that simulate different travel environments, we help your pet build confidence and adaptability, ensuring they remain well-behaved and comfortable during your adventures. This training not only enhances your pet's travel experience but also allows you to explore new destinations together with peace of mind, knowing your furry companion is ready for the journey.

Cooperative Health Care

Cooperative health care training is essential for your pet's overall well-being, as it fosters a positive attitude toward handling, grooming, and veterinary visits. Our training sessions focus on teaching your pet to accept various forms of handling—such as brushing, nail trimming, and examinations—through gradual desensitisation and positive reinforcement. By using treats and praise, we help your pet associate these activities with rewarding experiences, reducing stress and anxiety during necessary health checks. This approach not only makes routine care more manageable but also enhances your pet’s comfort and cooperation during veterinary visits, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and a more relaxed experience for both you and your furry friend. By promoting a sense of trust and familiarity with these processes, we empower you to take an active role in your pet's health care routine.

At Riverness Animal Consulting, we are committed to helping you and your pet thrive together. For personalised training advice and support, contact us today or explore our services further by clicking Get Started below. Let’s embark on this training journey together!