DOG TRAINING

FORCE-FREE TRAINING, HAPPIER FURLife

Beginner 1

You will gain an understanding of:
  • Fundamentals of Socialization
  • Being your dog’s advocate, building trust
  • Hand signals vs. verbal cues
  • Fundamental leash techniques
  • Basic canine body language
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Beginner 2

Advance and refine the skills you acquired in our Beginner 1.
  • Verbal cues with duration and distractions
  • Loose lead walking without pulling
  • Reliable recall from a distance
and so much more!
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Intermediate 1

Mastered Beginner 2? This group may be right for you! Your dog will need to demonstrate:
  • Minimal to no jumping when greeting
  • Control entering and exiting
  • Loose leash walking both at your side 
and with 6-foot leash
  • No reactivity to other dogs
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Start Here:

CREATE A PET PROFILE

Instructors

Janis Copes, ABCDT

I have had a love of dogs all my life and at a young age dreamt of training Seeing-Eye Dogs. My first exposure to obedience training was in 1986 with my Maltese, Tara. I have continued to train all of my dogs in obedience since. I have two rescue dogs: Sissy is an Australian Cattle Dog mix and Credentialed Therapy Dog, Clark is a Schnauzer mix.

I work with Animal Assisted Therapy Services (AaTs) in therapeutic settings with mentally and emotionally disabled children, teenagers, and adults. I have partnered with AaTs to board and train Emotional Support Animals, former AATs Board Member and Canine Committee Co-Chair.

I teach obedience classes for Country Companions Veterinary Services in Bethany, Animal Clinic of Milford, Lock Stock & Barrel in Bethany, Prospect Park and Recreation, and a former trainer for Trap Falls Kennel Club, in Shelton.

I am a honors graduate and Mentor Trainer for Animal Behavior College, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a Pet Professional Guild, a supporting member of the International Association of Behavioral Consultants, and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Instructor/Evaluator.

Escape The Crate, LLC uses force-free training to teach obedience cues, eliminate behavior issues, and build trusting bonds between owners and their pets. We also offer pet sitting in a home environment without the use of kennels which eliminates stress for the pet and the owner.

Alex Esandrio, CCDT

Ever since I was a child, I chose to surround myself with animals knowing I wanted them to be a part of my future. Growing up, I trained our family dog and dreamt we would take home first place on the talent show Pet Star. Years later, I was fortunate enough to attend an agricultural high school, where I began my formal education around animals. I learned about basic kennel operations, positive dog training methods, grooming and medication administration.
 
When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness in college, my recovery involved using a service dog, named Joy, to assist me in every day life. We completed two years of extensive training until she officially graduated to a medical response service animal; and she changed my life forever. Going through that journey with her inspired me to further my education by attending Catch Canine Trainers Academy. I completed the program and became a Catch Certified Dog Trainer (CCDT) and received a certification in pet CPR.

I am so excited to be working for Escape the Crate, and I look forward to helping you strengthen the bond between yourself and your pet!

DOG TRAINING CLASS CALENDAR

my dog is fearful is very shy needs specific help

DID YOU KNOW?
We also offer Private or Online Lessons and Consultations

Let’s Talk: (203) 217-6687

Locations

Lock, Stock & Barrel
9 Munson Road
Bethany, CT

Animal Clinic of Milford
100 Gulf St.
Milford CT

Watertown Human, Social & Leisure Services
61 Echo Lake Road
Watertown, CT