A. We use positive, motivational methods that focus on relationship-based training, clear communication, and developing and strengthening the human-animal bond, based on trust. We focus on developing a solid foundation of understanding, so that our favorite obedience, "naked obedience," is established as quickly as possible. Over the years we have learned many ways of building obedience habits and continue to expand out knowledge every day.
Q. Is Julie "certified"?
A. No, Julie is not. She is proud to have had the opportunity to gain her experience through hands-on training, continuing experience, and working with not only training clients through Awesome Paws and Cudahy Kennel Club, but with clients from all of her wonderful veterinary hospital referrals, various shelter referrals, continuing education training seminars, and even from simply walking through pet stores and being asked, "How did you get your dog trained so well?" She has been handling dogs (and some cats) since 2001 and has had a vested interest in animal behavior ever since. She continues her education as often as possible to keep current with new techniques and tips, but has also developed a style all her own. For those simply wanting a "certified" dog trainer because of the title, Awesome Paws is not for you. Please feel free to research just what is entailed in becoming a certified dog trainer in most programs. Some of the requirements and the multiple-choice test questions are not as in-depth as we feel they should be, nor have practical applications, and this unfortunately means that there are a lot of people out there that can call themselves certified dog trainers that don't truly have any real experience in behavior modification, learning theory, or reinforcement. We would be more than happy to discuss our credentials, background, and even offer more than our site referrals and testimonials if you wish, however, we do not require any of our staff to be certified at this time. We would require they prove through practical application not only with their own pets (titles, classes, any certification programs like CGC, Therapy, etc), but with client's (under direct supervision of our owner) as well, that they know what it takes to be in this field.
Q: What methods of payment do you accept?
A. We accept Cash, local Checks with ID, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. For credit card transactions, however, a 4% transaction fee applies.
Q. What referrals do you have?
A. Please review the following:
We stand proudly with our Veterinary Referrals:
o Dr. Brian Ray: "I hired Julie on as a technician in 2007 and have not only been pleased with her performance in my hospital but with the fact that I can now offer sound behavioral advice to my clients. I like her relationship-based approach to training and the way she uses positive behavior modification techniques to help my patients overcome their training obstacles."
o
Dr. Genesia Livingston: "When I get concerns from my clients regarding training questions or behavioral concerns with their pets, I refer them immediately to Julie. Whether via a phone consultation or an in-home session, I can trust my clients’ needs will be met."o Dr. Todd Whitney: "I have been working with Julie since 2007 and have happily referred any behavioral questions her way, knowing she takes any time necessary to accomplish their individual goals. I have received a lot of positive feedback about her programs and feel confident in my referrals."
We
are always overjoyed with our client testimonials:
o "Thank you so much for all of your information. It was very helpful. My family took a real liking to you. You will be happy to know he is going outside on his own, and he took his very first walk today! I love seeing his personality develop more and more every day." H. Treffert
o "Thank you so much for all your help. The girls were pretty tired after you left. We worked a little this morning, and we will do more tonight. J was so tired and so lovey last night at bedtime. She jumped on my bed and laid her head right on my pillow. I fell asleep listening to her breathe. I believe you have made a huge difference already. God bless you, the world needs more like you." K. Stokes
o "Julie Westphal is a very knowledgeable professional, who communicates well with people and animals. We learned a lot from her, and were very impressed with her knowledge and abilities." - Mr. & Mrs. T. Bolton
We are thrilled with our Personal References:
o "
Julie has this special talent for being able to interact with and understand animal behavior and animal/human relationships that just can't be taught in any school. It's a surprise to many (myself included) to see just how much you can learn and accomplish when you take the right approach. Many people can claim they teach your dog to obey you, and sometimes they actually can. But at what cost to you and the relationship that you have with your pet? To see the full potential you can have with your dog, where you know you both are happy - and the ability to wow your friends and family - talk with Julie. Don't settle for anyone else." - B. Grahamo
"Julie has a profound knowledge of animal behavior. I've seen her turn anxiety-ridden, hyperactive, and aggressive dogs into dogs that are now confident, completely manageable, and happy to be a part of their owner's lives. You only get out of your pet what you put into him or her, but Awesome Paws Academy is your best first step to being the pet owner you want to be!" - S. Thompkinson
If you would like to post a Testimonial, we would LOVE to add yours to our site.
Please e-mail us at:
awesomepaws@wi.rr.com and we can put it up!Thank you so much for your patronage over the years...and for our new friends: We look forward to training with you soon!
Please let us know if you have any other questions!
SMILE! Training should be FuN!
Have a testimonial you would like us to add?
E-mail us at: awesomepaws@wi.rr.com
Happy Training!