About Playing Fur Keeps

Who runs it

"Casey DeKam, owner and trainer, is an Animal Behavior College graduate holding seven certifications, including specialized certification in shelter and rescue dog training." She describes what pushed her into it: "After years of fostering rescue dogs and volunteering in local shelters, I one day decided that I COULD do more and I WOULD do more! I could no longer sit back and continue to watch great dogs needlessly suffer through the pain of abandonment." The number she cites: "Over 3 million dogs enter shelters each year in the US alone. The #1 reason for owner surrenders? Behavioral issues. Many of which can be corrected through owner dedication and basic training."

How she got qualified, and why she started

"So, I set out on a two-and-a-half-year journey, in which I gained certificates from Animal Behavioral college in 7 different areas. In 2016, I took the leap and began building my business, with 1 main goal in mind – providing affordable and effective training to my community, in hopes of keeping more dogs out of our area shelters. That goal will never change!"

Method, stated with its limits

"Playing Fur Keeps utilizes a reinforcement based, fear free approach to training. Positive reinforcement is always the first choice when teaching and strengthening wanted behaviors." She is specific about what happens when a behavior is unwanted: "PFK believes in clear boundaries and consistent, appropriate consequences, beginning with redirection and, when applicable, the loss of a desired resource such as attention, play, food or forward movement. PFK does not believe that fear or pain should be used to create behavior change." Her reason: "A dog that 'listens' out of fear of consequence will never be a confident and well-bonded dog."

Two elements are taught throughout: "Two of those core elements are leadership and impulse control." On leadership she writes: "Contrary to past beliefs, you do not need to be louder and stronger to be a respected leader. There are endless ways in which you can earn your dog's respect without fear and pain. Let's boost your dog's confidence, not break it."

What is offered

"IN HOME · GROUP CLASSES · ONLINE TRAINING." The dog and puppy packages are both six weeks in the client's home: "From 6-week, in-your-house dog training packages to summer group sessions at Riverside Park, personalized training programs and even special training for a new baby or dealing with trigger-based reactions," and "Our 6-week, in-your-house puppy training package covers the basics and more." Named specialties on the menu include Basic Training, Advanced Training, Anxious Dogs, Group Classes, Personalized Training, Trigger Training and New Baby. Other services include online courses and "doggie massage (your aging dog will love this)."

Local recognition

"The Grand Rapids community voted Playing Fur Keeps the Best Dog Trainer in 2024 & 2025," and Casey's response is quoted: "I give a genuine thank you to all of those that have supported through both referrals and voting…. y'all are the real MVPs. I would not have the reputation that I do if it were not for your dedication to, and trust in my programs!"

What clients describe

"We have a dog with severe anxiety due to trauma. Casey helped her come out of her shell and she is happier and more playful than ever." And: "Very knowledgeable, kind and professional. She taught me as much as she taught the dog to set us up for success later down the road."

Where she works

"In-home dog and puppy training in your home in the Greater Grand Rapids, Michigan area, including… Ada, Allendale, Caledonia, Cascade, Coopersville, Grand Rapids, Hudsonville, Jenison, Kentwood, Rockford, Sparta, Walker, Wyoming and everywhere in between!"

Before you book

Ask about package prices.