Session 1
"Thanks for offering this program. I got involved at the right time. I learned a huge amount!"
-Angela Eaton Snovak
"I wanted to extend my congratulations to you, and ask that you pass this along to Karen as well, for the creation of a terrific program from start to finish. I just received my diploma and am so pleased! The quality and rigor of the program is unparalleled, as are the materials, and the support that students receive.
I think this has been the best investment of money and time I’ve spent for my dog training career and education. The Karen Pryor Academy is top notch in every aspect. I look forward to seeing you all in Kentucky at Clicker Expo. I’m a proud KPA Training Partner!
Thanks for making my day (month, year!),"
-Laurie Luck
"I've grown so much as a trainer. I've learned new techniques and why things actually work, plus the friendships are priceless."
-Linda Legare
"I'm really excited about my first workshop this coming weekend. I've been plowing through the material and have found it incredibly challenging and useful. I really needed this coursework more than I realized. I have discovered that my criteria for cueing are very, very weak. I've been way too accepting of "offered behaviors."
I have learned a tremendous amount about training already in this first month of class. But, more importantly, I am learning a great deal more about myself and about my expectations for myself and for my animals. And, most importantly, I am learning to expand my conception of what is possible.
Thank you again for making this opportunity possible,"
-Van Sturgeon
"I know it's a lot of money and a big decision that only you can make but I can say that everyone I've talked to that's enrolled in the academy is as excited about it as I am!" (expand/collapse)
-Laura Devine, BA, CPDT
"I had a really hard time deciding to enroll in the Academy because it seemed so expensive, and it is. I just wasn't sure I would be able to get a big enough return educationally on my investment. Like you, I'd passed my CPDT exam and was confident that I had a solid foundation in learning theory and animal behavior. Even so, I can honestly tell you that the Academy has been the best educational experience I have ever had! The level of the material is easily something you would find in a college course, including the introduction of the record keeping side of training sessions. I was amazed at how far in depth we explored each topic and how current the information was. Literally, some of the latest developments in scientific research is included, along with video clips of some of the experiments. The course is well organized, well thought out, and nicely put together. There is a lot of reading, writing, and training assignments but I could hardly wait to get to them. Having said all of that, the best part of the program for me has been getting to know my classmates and instructor. During the workshops the learning seems to occur exponentially. We all learn from each other and keep in touch in between workshops. I really feel fortunate to be part of such a diverse group of gifted trainers who all bring different strengths to the table and then shares them with the rest of us.
As a result of taking the course (I have not graduated, yet, I've finished all the online assignments and will hopefully pass my practical assignments the end of this month), I have experienced vast improvements in my knowledge and understanding of the science of operant conditioning. I've learned little things that make huge differences! I am much better prepared to discuss why we do the things we do in class and get my clients by in, which is resulting in more follow through on their training. I've also noticed big improvements in my mechanical skills and teaching skills. One of the things that has been a big bonus, and makes this program unique, is the business modules that are included. These lessons have provided information that is giving me an edge in my market and is already helping me grow my business. It has provided information that I did not have access to and helped me think about some aspects of my business in new ways. I was surprised at the benefit of this part of the course as I have a BA in business administration and am a business analyst by day.
I just mapquested where you were in relation to Helix Fairweather's facility and it looks like you're within about 2 hours. You're lucky to have a facility so close to you. I'm driving 8 hours one way to my workshops and that's the closest one to me.
I know it's a lot of money and a big decision that only you can make but I can say that everyone I've talked to that's enrolled in the academy is as excited about it as I am!
If you would like any additional information, I'd be glad to try to provide it. If you decide to enroll, I hope you'll let me know; I'll be glad to show you the ropes.
Good luck on your decision!
Laura Devine, BA, CPDT
The Dogs' Spot - Dog Training Center"
"All my memories of the Academy will stay in my heart forever."
-Rico Yamada
"Often veterinary professionals are not sure to whom they should refer clients for animal training. It can be difficult to find a trainer who uses non-punishment based training, appreciates and respects the human-animal bond, and demonstrates good rapport and teaching ability with owners.
This dilemma has been resolved by the creation of the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior." (expand/collapse)
-Julie Shaw, R.V.T.
Faculty Member
Karen Pryor Academy
"Often veterinary professionals are not sure to whom they should refer clients for animal training. It can be difficult to find a trainer who uses non-punishment based training, appreciates and respects the human-animal bond, and demonstrates good rapport and teaching ability with owners.
This dilemma has been resolved by the creation of the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior.
Through educational assessments and hands-on workshops, Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partners have demonstrated a high level of expertise and understanding of scientifically based positive reinforcement training methods. Certified Training Partners have also shown that they can create a positive and safe learning experience for both the animal and owner.
Graduates of the Academy are subject to a policed credentialing process (i.e. their credentials can be revoked), and are expected to demonstrate the highest level of professionalism and ethics.
When referring to a KPA Certified Training Partner, veterinary professionals can be confident that their clients will be taught state-of-the–art humane training techniques, and will be treated with the utmost respect and professionalism.
Sincerely,
-Julie Shaw, R.V.T.
Faculty Member
Karen Pryor Academy
"This course has been a long, difficult, wonderful road. Truly one of the best experiences of my life. I am proud to graduate and also sad that it is over. Thank you!"
-Daniel De La Rosa
Session 2