My husband Nick and I rescued Allie in December 2009, she is a Border Collie Mix, now just over a year old. She originated from Puerto Rico, where she was surviving on the streets as a little puppy.

When we went to pick her up from the Humane Society of Broward County, she was scared and shaking, but my husband and I were confident we could provide the home and care she needed to be happy and confident. It was slow going, as she was terrified of dogs and people and almost everything else. My 12 year old Border Collie, Trixie, soon became her role model.

Allie and I took our first dog training class (Clicker Training Level 1 with Daniel Ratay of the American Idogs) in September of 2010 and received the Certificate of completion with honor. I was not sure if Allie would be able to attend a class, in a strange environment, with strange dogs and people; however, we decided to try; and I’m glad we did.

Daniel and Chantel, both have such a positive energy, and with Daniel’s profound knowledge of dogs, Allie little worried mind was put to ease. Each class was such an enjoyable experience, even with the trials and tribulations, of learning something brand new, when you have no coordination. Daniel made the learning fun. We are very fortunate to have such an experienced dog trainer, with creative and fun teaching abilities, offering these classes in our neighborhood.

Daniel taught us, that with the right attitude, energy, coordination and timing, the possibilities with your dog are endless. The bond with my dog increased in leaps and bounds. I learned the three basic commands of Look, Touch and Follow…then the rest of the training begins to fall into place.

Allie’s confidence more than doubled and her trust in other dogs and people has improved tenfold. We learned so much, that we continue taking the classes, as well as the Saturday Membership. We also volunteer to help with the annual shows.

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