About Able Dog Professional Dog Training

Able Dog Professional Dog Training is based in Wake Forest and is run by Elaine Chevalier, described on the site as "a certified Service Dog Coach (SDC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)."

The service-dog work, and why it exists

The business explains the problem it solves before it sells anything: "Defined by in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service dog is trained to perform tasks to mitigate a handler's disability. There can be a long wait, as much as two years, to get a fully trained service dog from a program and can cost $8,000 or more. Owners can train their own service dog; however, they often need assistance from a trainer familiar with service dog training." Her role is to coach that process – "specific tasks or comprehensive program training from start to finish" – with the dog assessed first for "the appropriate temperament and behavior."

Puppy and family training

Puppy work is aimed at the critical window: "The first 3 months are the most important period of learning for puppies. This is the time to prevent lifelong problems such as reactions to strangers, noises, children, separation anxiety and other undesirable behaviors," trained to the objectives of the AKC STAR Puppy. Family dog training works to the AKC Canine Good Citizen objectives "for socialization, behavior, and basic obedience along with your specific family needs," and the stated aim is to "teach you to be the primary trainer for your dog."

One practical note: parts of this site are unfinished, with placeholder text and pricing left in from the theme. The service-dog and training pages are the real content.