About Brier Ridge Kennels & Outfitters

Brier Ridge Kennels & Outfitters sits in Chesterfield County, described on its own site as "Located in Chesterfield County, just outside Richmond, VA", with the address given as Moseley, VA 23120. It combines four strands: training, guiding, breeding and kenneling.

What they train

The training entry is short and specific: "We take dogs in and train using the Rick Smith Silent Command System. We offer obedience training and in-the-field consultation on specific issues of concern, on an hourly basis." Dogs are taken in rather than trained at the owner's home, and the in-the-field consultation is an hourly product rather than a course. The named system is the distinguishing feature here – it is a bird-dog handling system, and the site credits "his dear friend and mentor, Rick Smith, who believed in him and took his ability to the next level".

Who runs it

The site names the owner: "Tom Petree is a successful upland guide and dog trainer who grew up in Chesterfield, Virginia." His route in is given in detail – an interest in upland hunting and bird dogs beginning "in the early 80's", a first English Setter bought for 50 dollars, and a later career "as a professional guide at The Preserve at Dundee and dog trainer at Brier Ridge Kennels & Outfitters".

The rest of the business

Guiding is offered as "Professional and insured guide services offered at The Preserve at Dundee or any wild bird venue". The breeding side is Brittany and Boykin Spaniels, "for both field work and family companions". On boarding, the site says: "We are a fully licensed kennel, and offer boarding for dogs who are up-to-date on all vaccinations."

What to ask

Ask about certifications, prices and program lengths beyond the hourly consultation, and whether puppy, behavior or group classes are offered. The published training is field-oriented obedience work; owners wanting pet behavior work should ask whether it is in scope.