Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Thompson.
Mary, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I fell into dog training when my dog, Regis, started to exhibit a few behavior problems around his adolescence. He started to aggressively bark and lounge at other dogs on leash and growl when he had something that I needed to get away from him. I looked at trainers nearby and kept running into people and facilities that wanted to shock or physically hurt my dog to try to force or scare a dog into performing behavior. Doing something like that to my dog, my family, just didn’t feel right, so, I took matters into my own hands and taught myself how to work with him to manage and modify his behavior problems in an effective way using positive, force-free techniques. I, then started applying my knowledge at the shelter I worked at, and after interning with my mentor started to offer my services as a trainer. Since then, I’ve worked hard to expand my knowledge base and continue to learn how to most effectively help people help their dogs.
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s definitely been gratifying. One of the biggest struggles is helping people understand that they don’t have to be the “alpha” or the “boss” of their dog. Punitive dog training still has a very strong hold in our culture, and asking people to let go of that belief can sometimes be a challenge, but it’s always amazing to see their relationship with their dog blossom.
Other than that, running a business alone is always a challenge; I’m very lucky that I have an incredibly supportive family and group of friends to fall back on.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Canine Perspective – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I offer customized private dog training packages in people’s homes. When working with a client I specialize the package for them, so we’re only spending time working on what the client truly cares about, and I can help them accomplish those goals with efficiency.
I’m incredibly proud of the fact that my training philosophy is 100% force-free; there are absolutely no required licenses or certifications for a trainer to start working, which means that when you hire a trainer you could be trusting your dog with someone who doesn’t really know what they’re doing. That, can end up in training that’s ineffective, or worse, dangerous to your dog. I pride myself on continuing education through seminars and academies and staying up to date with the latest information in my field. I’m a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Pet Professional Guild and a certified professional dog trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). I love educating myself so that I can better help dog owners.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Chicago for it’s food and vibrant theatre scene. I’ve always been involved in musical theatre, so it’s always a fun night to go down to the city and see a new show. On top of that, I’m vegan, so food in the suburbs can sometimes be sparse, but I NEVER struggle to find something delicious in the city. If I get to go to the Chicago Diner and see a musical in the theatre district I’m a very happy camper!
My worst enemy in the city is parking, hands down. Since downloading Spot Hero life has gotten a little easier, but I will always dread trying to find parking.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.k9perspective.com
- Phone: 312-307-6481
- Email: k9perspectivemotm@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaninePerspective/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-canine-perspective-arlington-heights?osq=dog+training+canine+perspective
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
