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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?

Our fees vary depending on your location and the kind of support required. To enquire regarding fees, please contact us on the "Contact" page.

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However, we note that we strive to remain as affordable as possible. You will notice that we charge less than many other professional dog trainers - not because we are less qualified (we are usually much more qualified!), but because we want people experiencing aggression and reactivity to be able to receive the support they need.

WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS?

Thanks for asking! The dog training industry is unregulated, but you can be assured that we are highly qualified.

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Visit the "About" page to see a list of our current qualifications, experience, and continuing education.

WHAT METHODS DO YOU USE?

We use only the most up-to-date, force free training methods. Force free training, also known as positive reinforcement training, is a humane and science-based approach to dog training which focuses on encouraging desired behaviours without resort to force, fear, or punishment.

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Your dog's mental health and wellbeing are always front of mind.. This means that we will never:

  • leash pop, growl at, or physically manipulate your dog;

  • use harsh tools such as check chains, prong collars or e-collars; or

  • force your dog into a situation that makes them uncomfortable or from which they cannot escape.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVICE?

Thrive Canine is based in Kilsyth, Victoria - at the foot of the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs.

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We service within 30 minutes of Kilsyth. If you live further away, please contact us and we can recommend one of our trusted local colleagues to assist you.

HOW SOON CAN I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

Our services are in demand, and from time to time we are required to close our books to prioritise our current clients.

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When our books are open, wait times can range from 4 to 8 weeks in length. However, if you are experiencing an emergency (i.e. intrahousehold aggression, owner-directed aggression, or aggression towards a child) please contact us and we will do our best to fit you in urgently.

WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I BRING TO TRAINING?

The following equipment is permitted:

  • Y-shaped harness (preferred)

  • Flat collar

  • Material or biothane lead (including long leads)

  • Treat pouch filled with treats that are high value to your dog

  • Tug toy (please no balls or squeaky toys)

  • Clicker or happy voice

  • Muzzle

Please note that force free training, when properly executed, does not rely on any equipment at all.  Equipment such as leads and muzzles are a seat belt, not a steering wheel (i.e. they're used for safety, not as a means to cause behaviour to occur or not occur).

WHAT EQUIPMENT AND TECHNIQUES ARE NOT PERMITTED?

The following are prohibited:

  • Slip leads

  • Check chains, half-checks and obedience collars

  • Prong collars

  • E-collars, including vibration collars, electric collars, and invisible fence collars

  • Citronella collars

  • Head halters / "haltis"

  • Chain leads

  • Yelling at, growling at, or otherwise using verbal corrections on your dog

  • Yanking at or hitting your dog

  • Any tool which causes your dog discomfort, pain, or fear. This may include equipment listed in the "permitted" section above, if your dog has had a negative experience with that equipment in the past.

WHAT ONGOING SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE?

During our sessions, you will have our full attention.

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In between our sessions, all clients receive free ongoing support by email, text message and social media. Not sure about something? Send us a message or, better yet, film what you're doing or seeing and send it through.

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If your query requires material consideration or practical assistance, we will encourage you to book in another in-person session.

I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION!

Please contact us as we would be happy to assist you.

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