Behavior

CHRIS AND INFINITY

Digital Training Keeping you and your companion educated while social distancing

by SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

SOCIAL DISTANCING MAY LEAVE you and your canine companion feeling isolated, but there are fun ways to interact with others while staying safe at home. Online training provides a way to connect with a knowledgeable trainer so you can later exit quarantine while feeling proud that your pet has new, well-developed skills. Chris Hainley, a local certified dog trainer and owner of FairyTale Acres Academy, has seen how well online training works and recommends it even when it is safe to resume normal activities.

“Online training is not a new thing; it’s been around for a long time for both humans and animals,” Chris explained. “Online learning was the only option these past few months, and it has been greatly successful.” Online sessions are perfect for people who cannot travel or prefer the comfort of their homes. They are also an excellent alternative for pets who are not comfortable with car rides or have certain behavioral issues, such as human aggression or fear, that make staying home ideal. “Owners find that online sessions create a lot of flexibility in training their animals. It allows the whole family to be more involved. It also cuts out travel time, which makes weekly sessions easier to fit into busy lives.”

Chris’ online sessions are relaxed, informational, and incredibly fun. “I have a consultation via email before the first session, so I have a chance to get to know my clients.” Chris utilizes Zoom for the video portion of sessions but is flexible on the platform. Her classes last around 30-45 minutes and

DOGS MAY BE MOTIVATED PRIMARILY THROUGH FOOD, PLAY, OR AFFECTION.

include coaching clients through training, showing demonstrations with her dog when needed, discussing homework for the next week, and answering questions. Owners receive an email after their session that recaps important information they can use as a guide.

There are a few challenges with online sessions. “Some people prefer having a physical destination to go to,” Chris said. Sometimes they and their pet are seeking socialization that online classes don’t give them. “For me, it is a disadvantage because I am not physically able to give the animals scritches or snuggles, or personally present their graduation certificate and present.” For many people moving forward, a mixture of both may be the way to go. Chris plans to offer inperson, online, and a mix of both for her clients. While online sessions may lack the same closeness that in-person meetings provide, they do not remove the joy and pride that comes with learning alongside your pet and developing a strong bond.

Chris achieved her training certification through the Karen Pryor Academy. She has interacted with and trained various species, including dogs, cats, hamsters, mice, ponies, cows, and pigs. She is always up for the challenge of working with exotic animals and hopes to one day train a skunk. Chris has raised several service dogs for Phoenix Assistance Dogs, operates a pig rescue, and has spent years learning about animal behavior. She became a trainer to help others form a team with their pet so they can feel the same special bond she has with all of her animals.

717.575.1468 fairytailacresacademy@gmail.com