Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Godfrey.
Hi Kate, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always loved dogs and during college had a dog walking and pet sitting business. This lead to meeting dog trainers and deciding I wanted to learn more about dog training, which has been quite the journey. Animal Behavior College was where I got my start which led to an externship with Stacy Strickland, a very popular positive trainer in Jacksonville. From there I met various other trainers, attended seminars, learned about nose work, IPO (Shutzhund) and ultimately found myself with a goal of competing in PSA (Protection Sports). What I can say about dog training is that there is no one size fits all and every dog is unique. Training should enhance our bond with our dogs, and it should be fair. Dogs are truly a gift from God.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road. I thought I knew a good deal about training and that there was only one way to train until my Rottweiler, Heidi, came into my life and led me to balanced training. What a rocky road that was but I would do it all over again. That experience definitely made me a better trainer. Dogs are not created the same and what works with one training wise may not work with another. We’ve got to keep an open mind about dog training.
The challenges you face in dog training have the ability to make you better than you’d ever imagine. At the heart of all good training is the relationship between the dog and the handler. I feel blessed to have the privilege to work with dogs and people, and it is a bonus that sometimes my own dogs get to help other dogs by being a decoy dog for behavior modification or an anchor dog to show other dogs the world is not a scary place.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I provide obedience training, behavior modification and scent work for dogs. Training is opening up a line of communication between handler and dog.
Behavior modification is probably my favorite thing when it comes to working with dogs and their people. I really enjoy behavior modification cases because the look of relief on the face of the handler and dog when they can go for a walk without outbursts is incredibly rewarding. I’ve had that experience myself with my own dog and all she needed was clarity. I am most proud of the relationship I have with my own dogs, we are a team.
I’d say what sets me apart from others is that I have a background in “all positive” training and switched to a balanced approach when my own dog humbled me. There are so many options when it comes to training, and seeing a dog have that light bulb moment and everything change for the better is so rewarding. Dogs are not born trained and they have no moral code, it is up to us to teach them how to love in our human world.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Find people that challenge you to be better, people that will tell you how you’re progressing and where you are failing. Get around people that are better than you! If you’re the best one in your group. find another group!
Pricing:
- Single Lesson $179
- 4 Private Lessons $599
- 8 Private Lessons $1099
- M-F Board and Train $750
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.comprehensivecaninetraining.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comprehensivecaninetraining/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comprehensivecaninetraining
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/comprehensive-canine-training-atlantic-beach
