Separation
Anxiety
Taking the anxiety out of alone time
Living with a dog that struggles being left alone? Worried about being evicted? Feeling like a prisoner in your own home? Hate to see them panic? Feeling like nothing you have done works?
I can help. My education and practice is based in the science of behavior change as is the best practices we know of to help you and your dog. The road can be long and full of ups and downs, but this behavior is modifiable.
Separation Anxiety Support
Initial Consultation
$185
All New clients start here
60 minute Zoom meeting
History taking, discussion of concerns and setting training goals
In depth conversation of what training looks like
Understanding management
Notes from our session with support links and resources
Recording of our session
Monthly Coaching
$600
Once a week absence assessment over Zoom
20 customized training plans
Unlimited support via WhatsApp during office hours
Custom data graphing
Communication with your veterinarian or veterinarian behaviorist
2 Month Bundle
$1,100
Once a week absence assessment over Zoom
40 customized training plans
Unlimited support via WhatsApp during office hours
Custom data graphing
Communication with your veterinarian or veterinarian behaviorist
What My Clients Think
Kristine has been such an asset in the training journey with my rescued staffy/pittie mix named Matilda. If you have a pitbull type dog, you know that the pressure is high to have a dog that is 100% perfectly behaved at all times. She knows so much about dog behavior and has helped me reach a greater understanding of my dog and what she needs.
The training with Kristine has been completely remote. I send her videos and she updates our plans and gives me feedback based on the videos and my questions. She is patient, kind, empathetic, and extremely knowledgeable when it comes to dog psychology. The training methods are all science and evidence based, and does not involve hurting or punishing the pups.
Kristine has been able to provide excellent practices and feedback based on detailed reviews of training videos I send her weekly. She has always been available and very well organized. She compassionate and has an excellent understanding of dog behavior and how they process information. Kristine has been the best trainer I have worked with
FAQs
Training for separation anxiety in dogs differs from other types of dog training as it involves addressing an emotional response rather than simply teaching new behaviors or tricks. Similar to humans seeking counseling for fears or phobias, predicting a specific timeline for a "cure" is impossible. Each dog is unique, as are their owners and their ability to carry out training exercises, so progress may occur within a few weeks or take several months. Although separation anxiety is a highly treatable condition, progress can be slow, especially in the early stages. However, once careful initial progress is made, learning tends to accelerate. Consistency and dedicated time to the training process can influence the rate of progress.
You and your dog will receive respectful and compassionate treatment from me. I am committed to providing transparent and honest information regarding outcomes, progress, and prognosis. However, it is unethical for any trainer to guarantee specific results. Dogs are living beings, and their behavior is influenced by numerous factors, including environmental changes, medical conditions or discomfort, reinforcement history, human interactions, and genetics. It is important to recognize that behavior, whether in dogs or humans, is never completely predictable or consistent, as it fluctuates with circumstances.
As an online trainer, I have the opportunity to assist clients from around the world. Regardless of your location, my services are accessible to anyone. I have built a solid clientele and receive referrals from both clients and veterinarians in various areas, including the Bay Area, CA, and South-Western Washington. Since all my services are conducted remotely, wherever you are you are able to receive the support you and your dog require.
It is possible that crate use can worsen separation anxiety in some cases. While certain dogs may appear calmer when confined to a crate, it is important to introduce the crate gradually using positive methods. Many dogs with separation anxiety may attempt to escape from the crate during alone-time, which can be risky if they get their paws or teeth caught on the metal parts. Using a room with a baby gate or restricting access to certain areas of the house can be a preferable alternative for many dogs. Determining the most suitable environment for your dog will require time and observation on your part. If you're uncertain, working with a trainer who can assist you in interpreting your dog's body language can help you make the best decision for both you and your dog. It's worth noting that even dogs with a history of destructive behavior or accidents due to anxiety can be successful outside of the crate, and we can guide you on how to achieve that.
Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit a common symptom known as "alone-time anorexia," where they refuse to eat when left alone. When treating separation anxiety, the primary goal is to help your dog become comfortable when alone. Contrary to popular belief, food does not play a central role in addressing separation anxiety and may not be utilized at all in the treatment process. While food is typically essential in various types of training, its role differs when it comes to separation anxiety. Other techniques and approaches are typically employed to address the underlying anxiety and help your dog overcome their fear of being alone. It is recommended to work with a professional who specializes in separation anxiety to develop an effective and personalized treatment plan for your dog.
I strongly discourage the use of any anti-barking collar for dogs with separation anxiety. While citronella or shock collars may temporarily suppress anxiety-induced barking, the underlying panic and anxiety are not effectively addressed. Barking is often a visible symptom of the intense distress experienced by dogs with separation anxiety. Eliminating the barking alone does not alleviate their suffering. Dogs with separation anxiety require compassionate help and support. It is important to understand that anti-barking collars typically worsen separation anxiety and can have a significant negative impact on the dog's well-being, even if they temporarily silence the barking. Instead, we recommend seeking guidance from a professional trainer or behaviorist who specializes in separation anxiety to implement appropriate, humane, and effective strategies to help your dog overcome their anxiety and improve their overall well-being.
To secure your appointment time on my calendar and prevent it from being booked by another potential client, full payment is required. Please note that refunds are not provided for initial consultations.
However, if you need to cancel your appointment at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled consultation, the full amount of your consultation fee will be credited and remain on file for a period of 1 year. This credit can be utilized by you for a future appointment or gifted to a dog in need.
Additionally, should you require it, you have the flexibility to reschedule your initial consultation without any additional charges up to 24 hours before the scheduled appointment time.
These policies are in place to ensure fairness and to accommodate changes in scheduling while still providing quality service.