Sophie, our 3 year old Havanese was a delight.....other than her high pitched uncontrolled barking, constant begging at dinner time, demands to play ball, and basic non-listening. We had created the problems and tolerated them, but it was quickly affecting our enjoyment and pleasure in her. We had spoken with Megan by phone about our concerns and were impressed with what the Midway Dog Academy program offered. Several months passed and we continued to threaten Sophie with "boot camp" when our patience was tried. It was a huge financial commitment for us and we wanted to make sure that we were making the right decision. Another one of our concerns was that it might change her basic sweet and funny personality. We didn't want to change her other than the "bad" behaviors which had become intolerable.
We contacted Megan again and scheduled her drop-off date. It was as difficult for us as taking our kids for the first time to sleep away camp. We drove away in our car hoping that we had made the right decision. We were in phone contact with Megan to get progress updates. Megan had even made up a "Sophie song" that she would sing to her.I have to admit I would even drive by on my way to work hoping to catch a glimpse of her (which I did once) and then had to try and get away before Sophie spotted the car. We really missed her!
The day came to pick her up, and my husband and I were so excited we could hardly wait. We met with Megan first who told us what how the demonstration would go. Then we settled in to watch her put Sophie through her paces. She walked her on leash, off leash, placed her, and gave her stay and come commands. We were amazed! Then came the biggest test. Would she greet us without barking and jumping all over us? Scott had warned us this would be the hardest thing for Sophie, but we would work at it till she got it right. She was so excited to see us I thought she would shake her tail right off but did it with barely a sound, even Megan was impressed. She needed to be reminded to place but passed with flying colors. We were thrilled!! Now it was our turn to be schooled in the proper techniques needed to maintain all that Sophie had learned over the last 2 weeks.
It has been many months since Sophie attended MDA. We continue to be amazed and thrilled by the changes in her. We always loved her but now thoroughly enjoy her as well. Family and friends can't believe the change in her behavior. The biggest thing for us is to not fall back into our own bad habits which created the problems we had with her. Knowing that Megan are there for a "refresher" if we need it is a good feeling. The investment we made was definitely worth it and I would not hesitate to recommend that anyone with a "problem pet" check out Midway Dog Academy.
Phil and Cindy R.
Midway Dog Academy - Chicago's Best Dog Training
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