About Bluegrass Canine Dog Training

About

Bluegrass Canine Dog Training is run by **Anne Dottore**, head trainer and owner. "With over 20+ years of full time experience, and 1000's of dogs trained, I am happy to help you develop the life your dog wants with you. I offer a completey unique training based on the innate drives and natural instincts of both humans and canines. One on one private lessons are used to teach you and your dog how to establish and maintain your relationship."

Lessons are held in Franklin, Kentucky.

Services

– **Private Training.** "Our 4 session training package covers all you will need to create your ideal relationship with your dog." The published curriculum: "Dogs will learn all basic commands on leash, with an emphasis on manners. (I.E. no biting, chewing, jumping up, etc.) Covered are heel, loose lead walk, sit, sit/stay, down, down/stay, come when called and a place command." It adds: "Dogs in behavioral rehabilitation will receive these commands also, in addition to problem specific training. If time permits, basic agility and beneficial games are introduced as well. Off leash control is included."

– **Refresher Training.** "After completing the basic program refresher lessons are recommended once a month for several months if needed. These are priced individually based on required time."

Owners are trained too: "Owners receive basic handling skills, an overview of dog psychology and follow up information."

Format: "Lessons are here in Franklin, KY and take about 1 1/2 hours each week for the 4 weeks of training. This is a very comprehensive approach and requires owners to be actively involved in the process of learning with their dog."

Background

Anne Dottore's published history is heavily working-dog. "She has been extensively involved in training horses for showing and racing. She spent many years as a zookeeper and primate curator for the Nashville Zoo, where she specialized in animal behavior and psychology."

In search and rescue: "Anne has years of experience with working canines, and has served on many search & rescue missions, including responding with Rescue International to Staten Island following 9-11. Anne currently is a handler on FEMA Tennessee Task Force-1 with 4 operational Urban Search & Rescue canine."

Formal training: "Anne has attended National K9 School for Dog Trainers, and has obtained certification as a companion dog trainer in Sept. 2003. This training included teaching beginning and advanced obedience, canine psychology, utility, puppy classes, behavior modification techniques, and temperment testing procedures."

Her dogs' certifications and deployments are listed in detail, including a 2004 selection to FEMA Indiana Task Force-1 — "One of 28 elite task forces in the United States" — and deployments to hurricanes Ophelia, Katrina, Ike and Gustav plus tornado recovery in Macon County, TN.

The site also notes: "Kennel Staff: Several Western Kentucky University agriculture majors work part time at the training center."