Dog Clients

Oreo
“Alana truly saved my dog’s life…”

Alana truly saved my dog’s life. After I purchased her, I discovered that she had been very abused. At first when anyone new came around her, she rolled up into a little ball in the corner and shook and peed. A dog-loving friend of mine came over and picked her up. Oreo bit her. If any man came into the house, she was so frightened that she growled and cowered in the corner. I took her to one trainer and she insisted that Oreo needed to know who was boss. I was to accomplish this by putting her into a down position and putting my foot on the leash a few inches from her head. This was to be done several times a day. I stopped it immediately because the dog just fell to pieces.

I took her to a second trainer and after the consultation she said that I should consider putting Oreo down because there were many good dogs out there. Fortunately a friend had heard of Alana and as my last resort I called her. From the very first minute, Alana understood the dog. The change in the animal was immediate. I think that Alana could have taught her anything in the world — unfortunately, I was not as quick a study, but together with Alana, Oreo and I worked it out.

People who knew Oreo before Alana simply cannot believe the change — this is a happy dog who greets everyone. It is impossible to feel sad around this little dog. She wants to play but she is happy just to be with you. The children on the block love her, the neighbor with dementia is her good friend, and for me…she is a wonderful companion.
~ Judith Bresler & Oreo, New York

Tyco
“Alana is an amazing trainer.”

“Alana is an amazing trainer. My dog Tyco is an ex-show dog, and came to us without any basic manner skills as he had only lived in a kennel situation and also had some dog aggression issues. After using her kind and compassionate methods during our private lessons, Tyco has flourished and is now a well-adjusted and behaved member of both human and canine society. We have both benefited from her expertise and knowledge! Tyco adores her!

Alana is articulate and able to convey her instructions and ideas to her clients with ease. I find her book to be invaluable. The book is concise and elucidates the dog’s thinking process so that the owner understands why positive dog training is instrumental in enhancing the human-pet bond. Alana also has expertise in feline behavior modification, which has been instrumental in preventing several clients from having to re-home or euthanize their cats.” ~ Dr. Ilene Segal, DVM & Tyco

Obi
“I can’t believe it! I can’t thank you enough for all your help!…”

“Thanks for checking in! Obi has been doing really well. We have been able to completely stop the barking habit, and the pinning has largely stopped as well. It really didn’t take too long, maybe a week or so. Recently, he has even started to play again with some of the dogs that he was pinning.

We ran into one of them the other day, and Obi went right up to him doing the boxer wiggle and play bowing. The other dog was pretty confused given what happened in the past.

The only real issues that persist are an aversion to golden retrievers in general, and some of the leash aggression stuff towards dogs that bark at him when he is on leash. We are working on it!

We have been carrying treats to assist with training, and Obi has been fine even when other dogs beg. I can’t believe it! I can’t thank you enough for all your help! Thanks again and Happy New Year!”
~ Hanna Griffiths & Obi, Massachusetts

Dakota & Haley
“I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everything you taught me.” 

Dakota isn’t pawing at all anymore and doesn’t even try to push Haley away when Haley is getting attention. Dakota just comes over and sits next to her.

It’s so nice! They’re great about waiting to go out and come inside. Food is still a touchy subject, but getting much better. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everything you taught me.
~ Perry Rooney, Dakota & Haley, Massachusetts

Daisy
“Daisy so enjoyed training…”

Alana,
I want to thank you for the effect your group class and private lessons have had on my puppy, Daisy. I did not have a good experience with previous training classes. The instructors were very heavy-handed and did not communicate well with the dogs. The method was more brute force than actual training. Your class not only started Daisy on the right path to training, but also provided an excellent socialization environment. Your private lessons really built on the concepts you taught in class. You also taught me how Daisy thinks. It was a very helpful perspective to have when working with a new puppy. Daisy so enjoyed training and got excited every time we left the house for class. I really believe that early training and exposure has helped Daisy. She is so calm and happy to meet new people. Thank you for giving Daisy and me an excellent start!
~ Sincerely, Nancy VanWinkle & Daisy, New York

Annie
“I’m so proud of the progress we have made.”

I wanted to give you a quick update on Annie’s progress.

While we are out on walks, she has learned to turn and look at me every time somebody walks by us. Her barking fits are much fewer and far between. The separation anxiety has greatly improved. I’m so proud of the progress we have made. I’m seeing huge improvements in her temperament while on walks around other dogs.

I’m so proud of her! Thank you so much for your help!
~ Jenna Dodd & Annie, Massachusetts

Zippy
“I am very grateful…”

I came to Alana with my newly adopted dog, not really understanding why Zippy was showing fearfully aggressive behaviors towards strangers and men. She gave me clear, practical information that has allowed me to work with my dog at home and improve how he behaves around others. Her methods make plain sense. I am very grateful for having found a caring, gentle person to give me the tools to help give my dog a better quality of life — without the yelling, punishing, and choking that so many trainers use.
~ Jeanmarie Verruso & Zippy, New York

Cadence
“Cadence adored Alana immediately…”

When I first started working with Alana, I was in despair regarding my relationship with my dog, Cadence. He was engaging in destructive behavior almost daily, had developed a number of very neurotic habits, and was unable to demonstrate skills he seemed to have known for months. I was overwhelmed and having many doubts about my ability to help him. Before my lessons with Alana, I took Cadence to a trainer who showed me how to keep Cadence lying at my feet by holding his shoulders down by force with my hand. Simultaneously, I was to step on the leash inches from his head so he was unable to get up. I was to maintain this exercise for a half-hour daily. Cadence was clearly unhappy and so was I. I left beneath a cloud of disappointment at the prospect of hours spent forcing my dog into positions. Thankfully, I didn’t go back.

Immediately after the first lesson Cadence and I had with Alana, the cloud of despair lifted! I had never imagined that training could be such a positive bonding experience for Cadence and me. Cadence, who is hesitant and nervous with strangers, adored Alana immediately. He was so enthusiastic during our lessons and at our at-home practice sessions. As I learned to communicate with him in better ways, the blank stares which had previously greeted me disappeared. I quickly found that I had an alert, fast-paced pup who wanted to carry out anything I could request of him, as long as I could explain it to him in a way he could understand. It was clear he experienced a great sense of accomplishment after Alana’s lessons.

As Cadence and I practiced, we progressed in leaps and bounds. The process appeared to be rapidly building his confidence; he was clearly shining and glowing with pride. He would prance around, doing spontaneous tricks to induce practice sessions, which is now one of his favorite activities and his behavioral problems have lessened significantly! The more positive behaviors he learned, the more radically the destructive behaviors were minimized! Cadence’s father, Blue, who is my other dog, eagerly joined in the practice sessions at home. I had never seen such teamwork between the two of them. While Blue did not have any problematic behaviors, it was clear he was happy with my enhanced canine communication skills.

Alana has enabled me to have a dramatically better relationship with both my dogs. They love her methods, and exhibit dedication, enthusiasm, and enjoyment every step of the way. The tools I have gained from Alana’s lessons have allowed me to be a better dog partner than I ever imagined!
~ Noga Zerubavel & Cadence, New York

Bodie, Annie, & Tokyo
“It truly is amazing.”

Muriwai & Huia
“We really value your knowledge and insights and wanted to say that you’ve helped us so much!“

Just wanted to reach out and thank you so much again for the training session. We really value your knowledge and insights and wanted to say that you’ve helped us so much!

The things that have helped us the most were: your insights into how dogs learn (how they don’t generalize like we do), having a hierarchy of treats (seriously has changed our lives!), your crate feedback, and your suggestions on turning the pups around if we are in a situation that we can’t leave.

We’ve been practicing the treat hierarchy mainly when we run into other dogs and it has helped Huia’s anxiety immensely! She now looks at us when we are getting closer to a dog (she is a big fan of hot dogs), and the “1 puppy, 2 puppy” suggestion you gave us has really ensured that we get in quick and help her not get too overwhelmed.

The turning around solution has helped a lot with our elevator anxieties, and help us feel prepared for most situations) and Muriwai has done so well she now walks to the corner of the elevator and sits waiting for treats haha.

And your feedback on crates has helped Stefan and I have a better sleeping arrangement (back in our bedroom!) with the girls comfortably in the living room lounging on the couch, in the crate, or on the tile if they get hot.

We look forward to continue to help the girls out with their new lifestyle changes. Thank you again for giving us the tools that we needed.
~ Kate Cherven, Stefan Poninghaus, Muriwai & Huia, Massachusetts

Harvey
“Alana has changed our life with Harvey.”

We hired her to help us with our dog, Harvey. Dave and I both have previous dog experience but the problems we ran into with Harvey were new to us. Harvey constantly jumped on us and barked at me. He would nip and mouth me constantly. He refused to walk on leash and would lie down instead so I couldn’t move him. He also was chasing our cat, Boot. We live in an apartment so Harvey’s barking had me worried. Dave and I both work full-time which added to the stress. When Alana came to our home that was the day things changed for the better.

Since our consultation and lessons with Alana, the changes in Harvey have been phenomenal. Harvey’s barking is no longer a problem. Alana showed us exercises to use with Harvey that eliminated his nipping and mouthiness. He no longer jumps like he used to and walks are a dream in comparison. He is much better with Boot too.

Alana is so knowledgeable and very generous with her time. She has always been there for follow up questions and advice. I don’t know where we would be today if we hadn’t met her.

Before we met with Alana, we had considered returning Harvey to the shelter. But we are one big happy family now and I can’t imagine life without my boy! Alana has changed our life with Harvey. Dave and I highly recommend her!
~ Jill Metcalfe, Dave Everett, Harvey & Boot, Massachusetts

Darcy
“Yikes, I was so impressed.”

Darcy is doing fantastic! On our walk this morning she saw a dog that she would usually be reactive to, when she saw the dog (which was before I did) she looked up at me as if to say, what are you going to give me? Yikes, I was so impressed. Also we have given her more toys and that’s also going well.… Recently we came upon a black dog (normally she doesn’t like black dogs) I slowed down walking towards the dog and Darcy looked up at me and continued walking pass the dog…she seems very very happy and is easier in her typical evening crazies, might be the toy upgrade and treats. Thanks so much! ~ Janice & Dan McCormack & Darcy, Massachusetts

King 
“I so appreciate all your help and coaching…”

~ Aimee Morgida & King, Massachusetts

Pawstonian Daycare
“Thanks so much!”

We’ve implemented the suggestions and observations you provided and they have helped a lot. Who knew that a simple covering on top of the pen fencing would help create an entirely new, undisturbed play space? Dogs who normally jump or push the fence are now respecting it as a solid barrier. Also, we’ve been using significantly less treats since the “walking through” method has worked wonderfully as our “Red Light.” The dogs are also more attentive to us when we do give them the “stare.” We ourselves have been more attuned to the behavior and actions of the dogs during playtime, and especially during their entire time here. We’ve been rewarding the behaved dogs and see a boost in their confidence. I feel like it’s catching on even with the more mischievous ones. I mentioned to owners a few tips you gave us and emphasized the need for positive reinforcement on the homefront. It’s important for people to know that simple adjustments in how we carry ourselves really can help with dog behavior in a positive manner. Thanks so much!
~ Yee Wan, Massachusetts

Benjamin
“Alana is really great at what she does…”

I met Alana while pet sitting. Speaking with her, I was impressed by her intelligence when it came to dogs and their behavior. I had a dog my family was taking care of and he was having difficulties with other dogs in the house. I opted to take training with Alana. What I noticed was wonderful! Benjamin became so much better at home and was so much more responsive to us. Alana taught us better ways of dealing and interacting with Benjamin when he was having difficulties associating with other dogs. She was teaching us how our behavior directly has an influence over and affects our dogs’ behaviors. It changed our way of relating to our dogs. Alana is such a wonderful, kind, and lovely person and it shines through with her attitudes and interactions with people, as well as dogs. She goes above and beyond others in how much she gives. She is so genuinely sweet and caring to people and animals.

I also suggested Alana to clients of mine who were having difficulties with their dog. Their dog kept biting people and I struggled sometimes to put him on the leash. He would stop and freeze, and would sometimes snap at me when I would try to put on his collar and at times he would not come when called. Since Alana’s visit, I noticed a remarkable improvement. He was not only following me around asking for attention, but kept wanting me to pet him around his neck! He couldn’t get enough. He has completely stopped snapping at me when I touch his collar or put his leash on. Alana is really great at what she does. I recommend her highly to anyone who wants help with or wants to train their dogs.
~ Amy Sornberger & Benjamin, New York

Angel
“You had such a totally different approach and it worked…”

I want to thank you for your help with my Belgian Sheepdog, Angel, and her resource guarding. I came to you because my new puppy, Angel, would growl at me when I came close to her when she was eating. I do not tolerate my own dogs growling at me and I dealt with it as I had in the past with other dogs, by punishing her and trying to “establish dominance,” which is what prior trainers taught me. Much to my surprise, that only made things worse. My new puppy did not seem to be bonding with me and the growling only got worse and now escalated into snapping. When she was chewing on a rawhide it was particularly bad, with her snapping at me, and anyone else, strongly whenever approached. From a pup only a few months old, I was totally taken aback and had no idea what to do. I even considered returning her to her breeder.

Now, several months later, I cannot imagine that I even considered such an option. You had such a totally different approach and it worked, while at the same time giving me new insights into how dogs think. So I want to thank you for your insights of positive conditioning — trading, rewarding and giving her food, and hand-feeding her. The positive method, step-wise approach worked wonders! Angel again bonded with me, and now welcomes me close to her food bowl. And the once coveted rawhide? Now, rather than growling or snapping at us when she has one, she actively seeks one of the humans to hold her rawhide for her while she chews!! Angel will turn a year old soon, and is almost full grown. I am delighted to report that she is a playful gal, very loving and deeply bonded with us. We have no problem taking anything out of her mouth at any time thanks to you! We can’t imagine life without her. I feel as though you have given me the dog I always wanted!

I also want to thank you not only for help with Angel, but for the way you opened my eyes to my son’s dog Joe, a dog I had lived with for close to eight years. All that time, I viewed Joe as a nice enough dog, but rather stubborn and difficult to train. To be honest, I was secretly thankful he was not “my” dog, so I did not have to do much with him. I had tried to train him in the old yank and jerk method that I had used back in the late 1970s. Every time I tried to train Joe, he would get slower than molasses in January, would yawn and look away, lick his lips, and other behaviors that I took as stubborn refusal to be trained. I gave up on him as hopeless!

But in clicker-training Angel, I was amazed that Joe was always there, listening and doing what I was asking of my puppy. A few treats, and he was enthusiastic about being trained. But I still didn’t understand his previous behavior — not until you explained calming signals (again in conjunction with my puppy). I suddenly realized that all those behaviors I took as blowing me off and being stubborn were calming behaviors! What Joe was really trying to tell me, in the only language he knew, was that he was no threat to me and would I please stop hurting him! I knew that Joe had tremendous understanding of other dogs and never got in fights — Joe the ambassador we call him. But I had not realized he was using that same language with me. Your insight opened a whole new appreciation for that dear dog and I have integrated him into training, which he now loves! I always said that Joe was not sure I liked him. Now, I understand how he got that impression. We have a much closer relationship and deeper understanding and now, well, Joe KNOWS I love him and I do.

Thank you so much for sharing your understanding and love for dogs, and for opening new channels of communication between me and my canine companions. We are ALL enjoying training now! Thank you!
~ Janet McSwain & Angel, New York

Monty, Patrick & Lydia
“Alana’s obedience class has been a godsend…”

Alana Stevenson’s obedience class has been a godsend for us and our dogs. I recently decided to take my wife’s three corgis to an obedience class. They are wonderful, intelligent, and very good-natured dogs, but they had never had any training, which made life difficult. Any time they were off-lead, they would ignore us, behaving as if humans didn’t exist. When Alana explained her dog-friendly, positive-reinforcement methods to me, I wasn’t entirely sure they would work, but I was very relieved that I wouldn’t be asked to do anything that would upset or inflict physical or emotional pain on these sweet little creatures. Alana’s class produced spectacular results — almost equally for the ten-year-old and the eleven-year-old dogs as they did for the three-year-old. The dogs enjoy life much more because we can take them more places and allow them to do many more activities. Because of her dedication, expertise, professionalism and caring relationship with animals, I highly recommend Alana’s training classes for anyone who wants their dogs to learn quickly and in a positive way.

~ Fred & Veda Chernoff with Monty, Patrick & Lydia, New York

Seth
“Seth is happier today because of Alana’s training…”

Seth wasn’t able to attend puppy classes because of waiting for all of his shots and I wanted him to start training. So I heard about Alana and had her come to our house to train him. Seth absolutely loved her and her methods!

I had never trained such a young puppy (he was three months) before, so it was all new to me. Seth is a happier and more secure puppy today because of Alana’s training.

We live near a busy road, and it was life or death that he learn to listen and obey me and come when called. I have really learned better ways to communicate and teach him and have a happier and better-trained dog!”
~ Sandi Crandall & Seth, New York

Rusty
“I can’t thank you enough…”

Dear Alana,
I can’t thank you enough for all of your extremely helpful training sessions with our dog Rusty. Because of your behavioral training sessions we can keep our dog. I spent twenty years working in veterinary medicine and most of those as an LVT. Never during my education or years of work did I ever come across this method of training. It is such a common sense, user-friendly approach. I find this method of training ten times better than the traditional training classes that we attended with our other dog. I also think it’s great that you give the background behind the training. Understanding how a dog processes information and thinks is very helpful not only for training purposes but also helpful in day to day interactions. Anyone can be successful using this training method. Thanks again for everything.
Sincerely,
~ Kelly Devall & Rusty, New York

Bocker
“Alana’s positive training approach was amazing…”

When I met Alana, I was very impressed. I knew she was the right person to train Bocker. We were told by an agent that Bocker had the “look” to appear in print ads and maybe commercials. I wanted to find a trainer that could do some private work with Bocker on some specific commands to see if he was right for a ‘career’.

Alana’s positive training approach was amazing. Her knowledge on dog behavior was so enlightening. She showed me a whole new way to communicate with Bocker that showed results in getting him to do what I want and which created a greater bond between us.

Bocker is a big boy and I was having a problem controlling him on a leash. I was advised when he was younger to use a pronged collar. I hated doing this, but he is so strong, and I had just had surgery and was afraid of him pulling me too hard. Alana introduced me to the gentle leader which Bocker accepted very easily. Now I can walk Bocker, literally holding the leash with two fingers and all this without any discomfort to him. I’ll never know how to thank Alana for this too. I’m just sorry Bocker and I didn’t meet her much sooner.
~ Marie Shelto & Bocker, New York

Lucy
“Alana’s knowledge and professionalism is untouched…”

We were looking for someone to work with our 6-month-old Golden Retriever (champion counter surfer, kid bowler (she thought that the kids were bowling pins) and lead sled dog (while she was on a leash she could pull you around anywhere she wanted you to go). We saw Alana’s ad and website stating her philosophy: “People are taught to train dogs using gentle, fun and positive techniques all dogs love and understand. No leash jerks or punishments are given.” This was exactly what we were looking for to train Lucy and exactly what Alana gave us.

We are so very thankful for the time Alana has spent with us and Lucy. Alana’s knowledge and professionalism is untouched. Because of our lessons with Alana, Lucy rarely counter surfs, no longer bowls the kids over and is very enjoyable on a walk (with only her flat collar and a 6′ leash)! Lucy continues to make tremendous strides because of our implementation of Alana’s teaching methods.
~ Dave, Deanna, the kids & Lucy, New York

Junior & Bella
“I highly recommend Alana Stevenson for in-home consultations and behavioral issues/ training sessions with your dogs or cats.”

She provided me with the tools to address my dogs’ behavior problems. Alana has a compassionate, insightful approach with animals; apparent from the way she and my dogs connected so quickly.

In a short time, we made strides towards better understanding their separation anxiety and aggression issues around other dogs and greetings at the front door.
~ Woody Keppel, Junior & Bella, Vermont

Lucy
“Thanks to Alana, I have a well-behaved, good-natured dog…”

Meeting Alana was a blessing. As a new puppy owner, I was overwhelmed and way in over my head. Alana’s warm nature and positive techniques allowed me to enjoy the process of raising a puppy. Through positive reinforcement training, Alana taught me how to curb my dog’s play-biting and showed me how to prevent her from jumping up on people. Thanks to Alana, I have a well-behaved good-natured dog and am a happy dog owner.
~ Gina & Lucy, New York

Nana
“…Alana had me thinking differently…”

Nana is a 2½-year-old Brittany, and true to her breed she is friendly, happy, energetic, enthusiastic, athletic and smart. All wonderful qualities, but they presented some challenging training situations. Our pet sitter recommended Alana for training help.

When I contacted Alana, I had a long list of things I wanted help with: focus and attention, coming when called, walking on leash and keeping “four on the floor” when we meet other people and other dogs. I knew Nana and me weren’t making great progress (or having much fun) with the traditional training methods our prior instructor favored, so I was very interested in taking a completely positive approach to training. I scheduled a series of five private lessons.

From the very beginning Alana had me thinking differently about how dogs think and process information. I was very surprised and grateful to learn how I unintentionally influenced Nana’s undesirable behaviors by my interactions with her. That was followed by creative ideas on how to approach training Nana to make it both fun and effective. We’ve noticed great improvement. I now know how to better harness Nana’s natural exuberance without driving either her or myself crazy in the process. All the effort has been well worth it, because we recently had a large party at our home and many of our guests commented on how much calmer and well-behaved Nana was. Now that’s success!
~ Wendy Carey & Nana, New York

Roshi
“Alana really knows how dogs learn…”

John and I are both very grateful for all we’ve learned from Alana. I only wish I had known about her methods when I had my first dog. After doing it all wrong the first time, including going to obedience classes that taught us to use prong collars and other harsh methods that didn’t work, I was determined to do it differently with Roshi.

Alana’s positive training methods have been so effective. Now we know how to communicate with Roshi and we catch ourselves when we unintentionally reinforce behaviors we don’t want. It makes so much sense! We’re enjoying our puppy so much more than we would if we were using punishments. Roshi responded to Alana’s training methods so quickly. It was obvious she really knows how dogs learn. After taking private lessons with Alana, we continued with her group class to socialize Roshi with other dogs. We saw her methods work just as successfully with the other dogs in the class. It’s really reassuring to know that she’ll be able to help us if we have any problems that we can’t handle in the future. Roshi just loves her!
~ Colleen Yurcik & Roshi, New York

Kody
“Your lessons had an immediate effect on Kody…”

I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for all the help with Kody, our 5-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Before contacting you for a behavior consultation, my husband and I weren’t quite sure what to do about Kody and his aggressive behavior. We were beginning to think we would have to give him up, but neither of us really wanted that.

He became very aggressive, especially around food, be it his or ours, especially while I was cooking supper at home or in our travel trailer. He would have a tendency to come at me and growl and sometimes try to attack me. We would put him in a stay and he would end up breaking it. He did not like it when I would put him on his tie out or try to release him. Quite often he would growl and try to snap at me. He also got in the habit of hiding under my desk while I was working. When I would get up, he would dart out at me. Kody had actually bitten me a couple of times in the above circumstances. Kody and I had attended obedience classes where a choke collar was used and after awhile Kody just refused to listen to the collar and when the collar was snapped, he would sometimes growl at me.

After the consultation with you and the subsequent lessons we have a totally changed dog! Your lessons had an immediate effect on Kody and have definitely changed his attitude toward different circumstances and us. And thanks to you, I also learned how to cope with the different situations with fantastic results. I can truthfully say that I now feel more at ease around Kody than I have in a long time and best of all my husband has also noticed the change in his behavior! I definitely recommend your dog-friendly training to anyone and especially anyone who has a dog with an aggressive problem. I know it sure helped us be able to keep Kody as part of the family! Once again, thank you so very much for your help!
~
Cathy Johnson & Kody, New York

Ari & Hina
“I saw immediate changes in Ari and Hina after implementing Alana’s suggestions.”

In December 2012, I adopted two rescued Siberian Husky pups, Ari and Hina, found running in the desert west of Tucson. I brought them home in a large kennel, thinking “Oh, I’ve had dogs all my life and I’m good at this,” and realized right away I was in way over my head. At almost 5 months old, they were extremely skittish, hand-shy and literally terrified of me and everything around them. The first night it took me 3 hours to catch them and bring them indoors for the night.

Then I remembered Alana. I had magically run across her book at a New Zealand book shop on a trip in 2011. I contacted her and we set up a phone consultation and it was the BEST start I could have ever asked for. Alana’s advice on the use of food as positive reinforcement for basic eye contact and distance work was a pivotal tool and helped me set the right tone with Ari and Hina. She also instructed me on important signals I could give to the dogs through my body-language that would get them to trust me so they would allow me to approach them. I saw immediate changes in Ari and Hina after implementing Alana’s suggestions. Learning to understand what my dogs need (and not what I want them to do in any given situation) has been the most powerful education I have ever had in my life with dogs.

Because of Alana’s direct support and the knowledge she shared, Ari and Hina are now calm, happy, well-behaved, and well-adjusted dogs.”
~ Susan Banes (OMDog), Colorado

Casey
“A nearly complete turnaround…”

Hi Alana,
We can’t thank you enough for the consultation. Believe it or not, Casey has done a nearly complete turnaround. After Saturday, the past two days she has jumped or barked at us only twice. Before that, it was constant.

Thanks again,
Tom & Casey, New York

Kiva
“Alana is amazing with dogs!”

Alana is amazing with dogs! I highly recommend her positive, non-punishing, understand-it-from-a-dog’s-point-of-view approach to dog training. In 2006, I brought home an adorable yellow lab puppy—who was full of life and bouncy—and I was exhausted!

Someone at our dog park recommended Alana. I called and we set up private sessions at my house. Kiva LOVED her. And really, she was training me, too. By the end of our classes Kiva and I had developed a common language and “groundrules” —to the relief of me and our cat!

I don’t think I would have made it through those first six months without Alana’s help. And I frequently get compliments about how well-behaved Kiva is.

~ Comma Williams & Kiva, Massachusetts

Bobby
“My family and I are thankful for Alana’s help and highly recommend her services.”

My Scottish Terrier Bobby began to exhibit aggressive behavior toward other dogs, particularly big ones, just after his first birthday. I believed that his behavior was fear-based and I asked Alana to work with him.

Bobby responded very well to Alana’s positive training techniques. Alana has a depth of knowledge about animal behavior and recommended effective methods for dealing with Bobby’s issues. He is calmer, more restrained and more confident. Alana’s diagnosis of Bobby as a “highly reactive” dog is the correct one and her program of dealing with this personality trait has been successful in allowing us to take pleasurable and calm walks with him in public places where we pass other dogs and people. My family and I are thankful for Alana’s help and highly recommend her services.

~ Anne Mitchell, Matthew, & Bobby, Massachusetts

Sage
“My veterinarian highly recommended Alana…”

My veterinarian highly recommended Alana. I signed up for her Puppy Manners class with my puppy, “Sage,” and also took private lessons with her. We have two very young boys who are a handful, and now we had this new puppy who was biting and chewing EVERYTHING, including our children. Sage was chewing almost everything and we had real problems with housetraining. It seemed like a total disaster and we yelled at Sage a lot.

Things improved tremendously after lessons with Alana. Alana taught us how Sage was learning from us 24/7. She showed us positive ways to teach Sage. Instead of focusing on what Sage was doing wrong, Alana taught us to teach her what we wanted from her. Not only was Sage housetrained in such a short time, but Alana also taught us how to control the rambunctious play that would occur between Sage and the boys. I’m very happy to say, Sage is a much calmer, secure and well-behaved puppy. Because of Alana’s help, Sage is such a joy to have around now and she is truly a part of our family.
~ Christina Krisciunas & Sage, New York

Jack
“…we are forever grateful.”

When Jack first came to us, he was friendly but a little leery of his new surroundings. It was evident to us, as dog owners and in particular Malamute aficionados, that he’d had some past issues.

He developed a strong bond with my wife and my mother-in-law, who was suffering from the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. He loved to go into my mother in law’s room with our ‘little’ dog, Ember, to wake her and get her going for the day. When my mother-in-law’s Alzheimer’s got worse, affecting her stability and gait as well as leaving her more than a bit confused at times, he panicked—it upset him, and he couldn’t understand what was wrong. When she startled him, he bit her on the hand—and the town told us we had to have someone evaluate him to determine if he could stay or go.

Alana came in and observed Jack with the entire family—myself, my wife, her mom and Ember. She was able to help us immensely by outlining an approach and plan that helped ensure my mother-in-law’s safety even as her disease progressed while keeping Jack reassured.

It worked wonderfully, and we are forever grateful.

We lost Jack to bone cancer on May 10, 2012, but he still lives on with us in our memories—and we have Alana to thank for helping to ensure that we have so many of those memories to hold on to.”
~ John & Kathi Bourke, Jack & Ember, Massachusetts

Vesper & Kingston
“…I truly feel Alana is exceptional.”

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Alana! My adult daughter first contacted Alana when she and her rescue dog “Kingston” (a 15 lb. toy poodle/bichon frise mix) moved back in with me and my adult 80 lb. boxer “Vesper”. We needed Alana to help our dogs get along (Kingston was terrified of boisterous Vesper; Vesper wanted to take every opportunity to show that she dominated). Alana’s deep knowledge of dog behavior and her gentle and loving approach to help them worked wonders!

Vesper and I continued training with Alana for various other behavior problems, particularly Vesper’s strong pulling on leash and wanting to lunge when she saw other people and dogs on our walks, jumping up excitedly when people came to the door and not coming when called. Again, Alana’s deep insight of canine behavior and her positive and humane approach worked beautifully and made training a joyful and rewarding experience for Vesper and me. Alana also taught us different games to play to reinforce coming when called, which we continue to play just for fun, especially on bad weather days when we’re stuck in the house. In the field of dog trainers and dog behavior experts, I truly feel Alana is exceptional.”
~ Jane McCarthy, Vesper & Kingston, Massachusetts

Echo
“Thanks so much again!”

Echo’s such a well behaved dog. Thanks to your guidance when she was a puppy, we now have a very well behaved dog who is so patient, calm, caring and gentle with our young daughter.

We know that has a lot to do with you and the training techniques you taught us. Thanks so much again!
~ Meredith Eschauzier & Echo, Massachusetts

Chase
“We highly recommend Alana and her training methods.”

Chase was adopted as a two year old from Chessie Rescue. He had not been well treated in his former home. We were very insistent on positive training because we felt he had been through enough negatives in his life. Alana’s methods worked perfectly. Chase loves positive reinforcement and has responded well to clicker training. Chase loves learning! We highly recommend Alana and her training methods.
~ Kathy and Dave Dewez & Chase, New York

Peppy
“Peppy and I have both really enjoyed Alana’s purely positive training methods…”

This is one of HOPE’s rescue dogs, Peppy. When HOPE first took her out of the animal shelter, Peppy was a wild child. She pulled really hard on the leash and had absolutely no manners. With Alana’s help, Peppy has learned sit, down, stand, stay and leave it. She has been pulling much less on the leash since we started taking classes with Alana. Peppy and I have both really enjoyed Alana’s purely positive training methods.
~ Julie & Peppy, New York

Rita
“…an extremely knowledgeable counselor…”

Miss Stevenson is an extremely knowledgeable counselor.

She is kind and very thorough with her training procedures and methods. She has done wonders with my Rita, a very energetic Labrador puppy. I am so thankful I decided to have Miss Stevenson train Rita…and me too.
~ Jack Capper & Rita, New York

Candi
“We called Alana because of her kind methods…”

We got Candi from an abusive and neglectful family. She was mistreated by the kids in the family and ignored by the adults. We know she was hit by the former owners.

She was very fearful when we adopted her. We called Alana because of her kind methods. Alana showed us wonderful ways to work with Candi. She also taught us how to teach Candi through play and games. Candi is so happy now!
~ Julie, David & Candi, New York

Grace
“Grace loved going to class…and so did I!”

Dear Alana,

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with the results we obtained from your positive reinforcement training classes! Grace learned so much and in such a short period of time. In just six short lessons Grace learned to come when called, to sit, to lay down, to make eye contact with us and to not pull us on the leash. In addition to that, Grace loved going to class. And so did I!

I highly recommend your classes to people I meet who have dogs and want to teach their dog using a technique that treats dogs with respect, kindness and love.
Sincerely,
~ Susan Delano & Grace, New York

Charlie
“Thanks for all of your help!”

Charlie is doing great! Katie has baked him some carob treats and now some peanut butter treats—he loves both of those—the running and food treats are working really well. Now he isn’t growling or even lunging for other dogs — worst case he tries to turn and look at the dogs—but he is not being aggressive at all when we see other dogs on the walk.

The leash techniques have meant much less pulling in general. So a huge improvement in such a short time! Thanks for all of your help!
~ Nick Pendergrast & Charlie, Australia

Cracker Jack
“Remembering what I read in Alana’s book…”

I volunteer as a dog walker at the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS). During a recent volunteer session at the OHS, I walked a few dogs, one of which took off on me…Cracker Jack (CJ), a Siberian husky from the Canadian North, who is as high-energy as they come. OHS staff and dog walkers, in particular, are aware of CJ’s nature and agree that to walk this “little” guy is to enter into a realm where one is tested on most accounts, both physically and emotionally. CJ is a sweetheart. That being said, he still, and always will, have his wild side in him.

CJ and I were walking on an ankle-high, snow-filled path. CJ seems to be at peace. All of a sudden, CJ jumps what seemed like 6 feet in the air (probably 4 feet in reality). His gentle leader comes undone and in an instant, he uses both front paws to free himself from where it attaches. Impressive.

So CJ is free. Yes, CJ is off-leash. He took off like a flash of lighting. In an instant, he’s 600 feet away from me. My instincts taking over, I began to run after him. Remembering what I read in Alana’s book, I came to an abrupt halt and started making very loud noises and began to run in the opposite direction. CJ stopped, turned around, and began to run towards me at the same speed he left a moment earlier. 300 feet away. I was thinking to myself, “He’s not going to stop. He’ll bowl me over.” I got on my knees and leaned forward as to position my centre-of-gravity in preparation for a collision. 150 feet. 30 feet. 1 foot…. WHAM! I tackled him into a snow bank! We’re both full of snow, CJ on top of me and looking the happiest that I’ve ever seen him. With CJ in a firm bear hug, and still on my chest with his muzzle on my face, I realized that he truly was having a fun time. Both CJ and I emerged from the collision unscathed.

We had a moment together. Through that experience, we became closer. I believe that was CJ’s intent all along. He simply wanted to play. His spirit craved freedom. I shall never forget that experience and the connection that was made on that cold, snowy December night in Ottawa.
~ Justin Ferraro & Cracker Jack, Ontario, Canada

Bagel & Ruby
“Thank you for your help with Bagel and Ruby…”

Thank you for your help with Bagel and Ruby (well, and us too!). Bagel is much happier. The special food bowl works wonders! They are already jumping less on us and when people come in the door. They both sat on the couch with S. and T. yesterday—it was amazing!

Buzz collars were officially retired the day you came over.

~ Karen, Bagel & Ruby, Massachusetts

Dave & Suzi
“Alana’s training approach is fantastic and inspiring.”

I’ve learned things about dogs from Alana I never knew before. Alana’s training approach is fantastic and inspiring. I have never dominated Dave or Suzi in training.

That is so completely unnecessary Dave and Suzi have only been trained with love and I think it shows!

~ Mary Alice, Poodle Dave & Suz, Georgia

Coco
“We highly recommend Alana…”

We were referred to Alana by another trainer shortly after we rescued our one-year-old Goldendoodle, Coco. When Coco came to us, she had very deep trust issues, especially with men. She would growl at us at home and would not tolerate any touching on her hind quarters. We knew we needed help when she put her teeth on our son. In addition to needing help getting Coco to trust us, we needed to teach Coco basic commands and leash manners.

We worked with Alana for several months not only giving Coco the skills she needed but also learning a lot about how dogs behave and why. Alana educated us about techniques for winning Coco’s trust and for helping to boost her confidence. The results have completely transformed us and we are all now a very happy family unit. Our son has a great relationship with Coco now and Coco not only allows us to touch her all over her body but she often comes to us asking to be pet or snuggled. She is much friendlier with visitors and we finally feel free to invite friends and family to our home again.

Without Alana’s training, it’s hard to imagine that Coco would be such an intricate part of our family. Alana taught us how love and gentle techniques can be very effective even with a dog who had aggressive tendencies and a lot of fear. We highly recommend Alana for anyone looking to have a better relationship with their dog.
~ Meridith Peirce & Coco, Massachusetts

Chimie
“We are very thankful for her help.”

I came to Alana for help with our newly adopted eight year old chihuahua mix named Chimie. We adopted her from Tennessee, where her foster mom had rescued her from poor living conditions. I sought Alana’s guidance for help with Chimie’s eating habits, socializing and mobility around our apartment.

Prior to our two-hour phone consultation, Alana gathered detailed information about Chimie through a questionnaire and a few videos I sent over—all of which gave her a clear picture of Chimie and what the problem areas were. During our phone consultation, Alana provided constructive feedback on not only how to help Chimie with her fear issues, but also gave us insight as to possible reasons why Chimie behaved the way she did. This was most beneficial as it enabled us to change our perspective on her socializing ability, and helped us approach the training in a gentle yet effective manner.

Chimie will always need special care, but Alana provided us with the tools and guidance to help her become the best dog she can be. We are very thankful for her help.
~ Joy Mathew & Chimie, Massachusetts