Canine Physical Fitness

Note: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have provided information about the risk of your pets getting COVID-19 and guidance for minimizing risk to your pets.
Even though we all want the COVID-19 pandemic to be over, Ann believes we still must be cautious. Ann is providing in-person dog training and consultation on a limited basis.

The Human-Animal Solutions formula:

Practice, Results, Peace of Mind

For Healthier, Happier Dogs

*High-energy Jack loves being calm after climbing to the top of this “mountain.”*

As a loving, dedicated dog owner, your best friend’s health and happiness are always a priority. Sometimes, though, life gets in the way and it’s hard to find the time for even a short walk. But what can you do?

Human-Animal Solutions can help you unleash the potential in your dog’s body and mind – in as little as 15 fun minutes a day! With expert guidance from Ann Howie – one of only a handful of Certified Canine Fitness Trainers (CCFT) between Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington – you’ll learn how to lead your dog through a series of short-but-effective exercises tailored to both your needs. Whether you work together at home or in our clean, comfortable center, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your dog responds and how much fun you both have.

This type of customized physical training leads to all sorts of wonderful physical, mental, and emotional benefits:

Keeps your dog healthier longer
Improves your dog’s quality of life
Lessens the risk of injury
Reduces problem behaviors that stem from boredom or a lack of exercise
Promotes a more rapid recovery after illness
Results in more progress over less time
Boosts your dog’s confidence (and your own!)
Strengthens the bond between you

My Pomeranian Bubba, had recovered from knees surgery and needed some exercises to help him improve his mobility. Ann gave me the guidance, knowledge and exercises to help Bubba on a great road to recovery.”
Julie C.

For example:

We help in these ways . . . .

Semi-Private Lessons

*Tiny Jaxon is working on his squats: sitting and standing with his front feet elevated.*

You and a friend can work your dogs together in a fun, friendly, and supportive environment. Of course, your dogs need to know each other and be comfortable being together in close proximity. Semi-private lessons at my center are an effective, affordable way to improve your healthy dog’s overall fitness, flexibility, and strength. Dogs crave exercise, and getting exercise can reduce problem behaviors at home.

To get started, Contact Us.

Private Training

For those who who prefer the personal touch of one-on-one attention, private lessons are more your style. Your first step to a healthier, happier dog begins with scheduling an initial consultation with Ann.

*Nick is strengthening his hind quarters while giving his front quarters a rest.*

During this consultation, which lasts up to one-and-a-half hours, Ann will meet with the two of you to conduct an assessment of your dog’s current fitness level and abilities. She’ll also talk with you about your concerns, learn about the goals you have for your dog, and answer any questions. Ann watches carefully for signs of fatigue or stress, she helps you identify those signs, and she keeps things fun for your dog (and you!) rather than pushing your dog too far.

Following the consultation, Ann will take some time to think about your dog’s particular needs and develop a plan specifically for you and your dog. Ann will then send you your customized Plan of Action.

Once you’ve received your Plan of Action, Ann highly recommends at least one one-hour follow-up session to make sure the two of you are working smoothly together and avoiding common pitfalls that could lead to future injury. Ann reviews the Plan with you and helps you safely take your dog through the exercises. This ensures that you feel comfortable working with your dog at home and that your dog is using good form.

After the first follow-up session, you’ll work with Ann to determine the frequency of future sessions. As your dog becomes stronger, your Plan of Action will be adjusted to his changing needs by increasing difficulty, presenting new challenges, offering modifications, and ensuring that he keeps having fun!

You have been most patient, professional, and helpful in your remarks.”

This shows advanced balance with all four feet on an unstable surface (the yellow peanut). Gusto had to work up to this point. Just like all of us, some exercises are easier on certain days than they are on others. Let your dog tell you what he can do!

*Benny shows off his beautiful self while relaxing after a workout.*

Between sessions, Ann is always available to answer questions either by phone or e-mail.

To learn more about what to expect at your appointments or to get started, Contact Us.

Your dedication is obvious and honorable.”

Fees

Private Training:

Initial consultation/assessment: $125
Initial follow-up session: $80/hour
Additional follow-up sessions: $80/hour or $45/half-hour
See Rewards and Referrals below

*D’Argo and Anuk play together to improve their fitness (D’Argo) and confidence (Anuk).*

Semi-Private Lessons (one hour):

Individual initial assessments are required for both dogs: $125 each
Hourly follow-up lesson fees are shared between the two of you: $80/hour = $40 each
Note Rewards and Referrals below

Rewards (for the Humans)

Rather than give you cookies, we save you money and make life easier through our rewards program.

Private and Semi-Private Training: After five follow-up sessions, you receive half off your sixth session. You may pay at each session or pre-pay for a package of six session.

Referrals

You earn rewards by referring others to Human-Animal Solutions! When you refer someone who becomes an active client (which means comes for at least six sessions), you receive your next session free!