“Training can help the bond with everyone involved with the dog,” says dog trainer Kerry McBride, who has owned El Dorado Pet Club, a doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, and training facility in Shingle Springs, for more than 22 years. She’s also been a trainer for Hangtown Kennel Club since 1983. “The more fun and less stress you have while being with your dog makes a huge difference,” she says. “Not everyone cares if the dog walks on your left or right side, but everyone loves a happy, not-pulling dog.”
Anyone who’s ever tried to muscle a leash-taut Labrador in squirrel territory can attest to that! Good training will teach a dog to come when called, too—something that’s crucial during emergencies. McBride points out that during catastrophes such as fires or floods, dogs who will “potty” while on a leash and who will stay calm in a crate will fare better than ones who won’t. “They are safer being in a confined environment,” says McBride, who has worked in several natural disasters over the years.
Training isn’t just to help people keep their dogs safe. It’s also just plain fun. “I love to see a bond with a dog and its owner as they master a walk or trick,” she says. “So many times a bored dog gets into trouble. Once they have a job or are doing something fun, they get the chance to be a joy for people to be around.”
McBride incorporates several different methods for training, including praise, food, leashes, collars, and other equipment. “The pendulum swings on different methods and techniques,” she says, noting that she attends seminars to keep up with the latest training practices. What works is entirely dependent on each dog—and their owner. “I don’t believe in one method, but will try several things to help the dog and owner for success.”
One of her methods involves a pack walk. Starting from Ponderosa High School at 6 p.m. (3 p.m. during the winter) on Sundays, El Dorado Pet Club’s free pack walk sometimes includes more than 30 dogs, all learning to walk together calmly on their leashes. “It brings joy not only to the dogs but the owners,” says McBride. Camaraderie abounds, and friendships bloom as people exchange tales and share insights about their animals. One specific tip from McBride for a safe outing: no nose-to-nose greetings while on leash.
One of McBride’s favorite aspects of her job involves the great strides dogs can achieve with high-quality training. Animals who have come from the deepest corners of the shelter might become service dogs to people with autism or mobility issues, or agencies by lending their noses for drug-sniffing. “Seeing a shelter dog become one of these keeps me going,” says McBride, who has worked with El Dorado County Animal Services on many hoarding cases. She also is the president and founder of Foothill Dog Rescue of the Sierras.
At McBride’s El Dorado Pet Club, the belief is this: a tired dog is a happy dog. Attendees enjoy free play in the outdoor size-separated dog park that has shade, misters, agility equipment, and a doggie swimming pool. They are observed and placed in playgroups according to size, personality, temperament, and energy level. Indoors, where the dogs eat and sleep, the kennel has air conditioning and heat. Grooming is available as well.
“My two daughters and I have been involved with dogs our whole life,” says McBride. “I pretty much eat, sleep, and breathe dogs!” What she says about dog training applies to the family business as well: “Spending time doing fun things together can enhance everyone’s lives.”
What works is entirely dependent on each dog—and their owner.