What experience do our dog trainers have?
Dr. Echterling-Savage is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), with a PhD in Behavioral Psychology, specializing in animal behavior. Dr. Echterling-Savage is involved in our board-and-train wellness retreat programs. As a co-founder of Beyond the Dog, she mentors trainers across all our locations, develops training programs, and provides expert guidance on behavioral cases nationwide. Her depth of experience ensures our training philosophy is applied effectively, consistently, and compassionately.
Sean Savage is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA). Sean has extensive experience training dogs in obedience and manners, as well as addressing complex behavioral challenges. Sean manages training programs in Sarasota and Tampa Bay and is directly involved in board-and-train retreat programs.
Shelby Shipp is a dog trainer for our board and train programs, as well as our in-home programs in Tampa Bay and Sarasota. Before joining Beyond the Dog, Shelby worked as a veterinary assistant while completing her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science. She has experience training dogs in obedience and manners, and treating complex problem behaviors.
When can I start training my puppy?
You can start the training process before you even bring your puppy home! In preparation for your new addition, you can schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Echterling-Savage to cover topics like housebreaking, crate training, and other training goals to help set you and your pup up for success. Typically, puppies younger than 14 weeks struggle to focus for a full one hour session which is why we recommend waiting until your puppy reaches 14 weeks of age to start one of our in-home training programs.
I’ve enrolled in a program, what can I expect before training begins?
After you have submitted your behavior evaluation and completed your chosen program contract, our scheduler will email you a proposed schedule and supplies list. After that you will receive an email that will include instructions and first steps based on your training goals to help prepare your dog for training. Your trainer will reach out and introduce themselves!