Second Chance Kennels LLC

Specialties

Second Chance Kennels specializes in creating a confident, canine companion using only scientifically proven training techniques. All of our sessions are held privately in-​home to accommodate your busy schedule. We handle issues as simple as leash pulling, housebreaking your puppy, all the way to aggression, separation anxiety, and more! Unlike a lot of trainers, we went to school to further our career. We are also always learning at seminars, as well as, training with other trainers. No matter the problem, we can help you train for a well-​mannered family fur-​member.

History

Established in 2012.

When I first started my training career, I began by giving basic obedience lessons to low-​income families. Many dogs are returned to shelters because of jumping, leash pulling, housebreaking issues, and not all families can afford training services. I wanted to help my community and give back in my own way. As time went on, I started to take on more and more difficult cases: dog-​dog aggression, people aggression, resource guarding, marking behaviors, separation anxiety and obsessive behaviors. Later on, I enrolled with CATCH Canine Trainers Academy in preparation for my CPDT-​KA certification through the Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers. With SCK, I have documented over 1000 client based hours working with aggression, resource guarding and basic obedience problems. After a few years of hard work, SCK now serves VA, WV and MD. I also continue to give back to my community by volunteering my time with the local shelter to do Behavioral Modification at no cost.

Meet the Business Owner

Patricia H.

Business Owner

Patricia has a true passion and skill for training dogs. Patricia has extensive knowledge in dog behavior and is always learning more everyday. When she doesn’t know something, she will get back to you after researching for herself. Patricia is currently self-​studying for her CPDT-​KA (certified pet dog trainer).

In her spare time, Patricia is either volunteering or competing with her three dogs, Leila, Simon and Dalton.

Patricia uses positive reinforcement methods only and has found that this always provides the best results. She says, «using scare tactics such as throwing loud things on the ground and using harsh corrections will always set the dog up for failure. The dog doesn’t know when they have done good and have done the acceptable behavior. Training the dog by these outdated methods only escalates the problem. By using positive reinforcement to mark and reward the desired behavior, the dog is more apt to work with you; therefore, creating a more reliable behavior.»