Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you called PackFit?
“PackFit” represents the effort, practice, and investment involved in becoming emotionally, physically, and mentally “fit” and balanced. When there’s more than one, it’s a pack.
How much do you charge?
Every dog, every human with the dog, every living scenario and set of circumstances is unique and entirely different. Since we don’t subscribe to the “one size fits all” approach, each of our programs is highly customized and tailored in accordance with the goals and needs of each human and canine dynamic.
The only set price we have is for the I.B.A.C. and this is $297. Each additional dog in the home and pack is $50 (up to 3, then same price if 3 or more). For the I.B.A.C. and In-Home Private Training, we charge a .50 / mile travel fee for every mile over our immediate 10 mi. radius.
What's your training approach and philosophy?
We can sum up our approach in three words. Relationship-focused, Holistic, and Balanced.
All programs are built upon PackFit’s “5 Elements of Dog Training”: Foundational (relationship), Communication (learning to clearly and effectively communicate), Obedience (subscribing meaning to verbal cues and directives), State of Mind Conditioning (calm and excitement), and Behavior Shaping (real world and functional behavior).
Foundational training and relationship building is first and foremost, and is the bedrock of any successful training program.
What does "holistic" mean?
“Holistic” means the sum of all parts. Everything is interconnected, especially when it comes to behavior.
Behavior is the external expression of one or more underlying, internal driving forces, and is heavily layered.
We take the time to uncover, examine and address the underlying root causes of behavior and not just the symptoms; which ultimately translates into better communication, better training, mutual understanding, long-term peace of mind, and a much better quality of life.
Where does private training take place and how do sessions get scheduled?
Private training takes place in your home- yours and the dog’s normal, day-to-day environment, as well as any areas that are a part of your lifestyle and need work.
There is a high level of accountability with private sessions. Each session builds upon the one prior to it and “homework” is given in between. When clarity and understanding have been created, and progress made, you contact us for the next session.
We work on a progressional scale so as not to overwhelm either end of the leash, and to make sure understanding exists before piling on additional information.
Confirmation emails are sent the day prior to every appointment, which do require a response. If a session or IBAC appointment is missed without prior notification, it is forfeited.
If I opt for the “Board & Train” program, will I get to see my dog at all?
We understand you’ll miss your constant companion. Updates, videos, and pictures are sent throughout your pup’s stay with us so you can be included in the process from afar, see your pup in action, see how we’re handling and communicating with your pup, and witness the progress and transformation being made.
We also offer a boarding school program that allows you to come, stay, and learn along with your dog (Full Immersion) If you are interested in attending with your dog, please contact us for more information.
Are results guaranteed?
Behavior is highly contextual and heavily layered, and every dog, human with the dog, and living scenario is unique and different. To create balance, instill, shape, and rehabilitate behaviors, much of our success depends upon the commitment, consistency, practice, and follow-through of the humans with the dogs. What we can guarantee is remarkable improvement when our provided plan is followed, homework is practiced in between sessions, and sessions are conducted consistently. It’s up to the dog’s human to be proactive, accountable, responsible, consistent, and to practice.
Do you offer refunds?
All services and offerings are non-refundable. Private sessions are to be conducted within 6 mo’s time; IBAC’s within a month. As soon as an agreement to train is made, this 6 mo timeframe begins. Everyone receives a training agreement to be read through, understood, signed, and dated. If the agreement isn’t returned, its contents and non-refundable fees are still enforced, as are funds for IBAC’s.
How do we get started?
We begin with scheduling the IBAC (Initial Behavioral Assessment and Consultation). This is approximately 2 – 2.5 hours in length, is highly detailed and very informative. The information and feedback we receive from the assessment will serve as the foundation from which our training approach is based, as it covers the varying ingredients factoring into, influencing and impacting your dog’s state of mind and behavior.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, and payments made through PayPal.
We do offer an installment plan through PayPal Credit, which allows the balance to be paid off incrementally for up to 18 months.