Top Paw K9 Academy

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I was searching for a trainer and speaking with several trainers, both locally and out of state, while looking for someone who could help my SDIT (at the time) and me get across the finish line. The whole lifestyle change that comes with having a service dog was a huge and nerve-wracking reality, and it was something that was very unknown to me at the time. However, when I contacted Top Paw and explained what I was working with and what I was looking for, they didn’t hesitate to educate me, provide resources, and reassure me that this whole process didn’t need to—and wouldn’t—be what I was expecting it to be. It ended up being much more beneficial and much easier than I ever expected. That said, the training itself wasn’t necessarily the hard part. The real challenge was the new level of commitment and follow-through that came with having a service dog. That was what really opened my eyes to what this new version of life was going to look like. The team at Top Paw was there every step of the way, and they continue to be there for both my service dog and me. No matter what you’re looking for or what you and your dog may need, I highly recommend giving Top Paw a call. Just remember that the team at Top Paw not only has the expertise, but they genuinely want you and your dog to walk away with the understanding, education, and tools you need to be successful—regardless of the level of training you’re looking for. The follow-through, dedication, willingness to do the homework, and consistency are ultimately what determine your success. With Top Paw, you won’t have to worry about whether they’ll be involved or available when you need them. If anything, they seem to want you to succeed almost as much as you do! We continue to do follow-up training with the team as I identify areas of struggle or quirks that are specific to my service dog and me. Top Paw’s continued commitment has been invaluable to us, and we are extremely grateful to have them involved with us through this new chapter of life. If you’re looking for someone who will not only train your dog but also educate and support YOU throughout the process, I genuinely recommend Top Paw.

Lack of communication. I had scheduled a package of classes (450$ dollars) and my partner dropped me off after a 1 hour 20 minute drive to the location just for us to arrive and Jennifer looked at me and said “we canceled because of the weather” while she held her mccdonald’s frappe in her hand (it wasn’t snowing or anything and must have been nothing under 60 degrees out). So my partner had to grab me and we drove back home furious.…..After reply: The cup had a big yellow “M” on it. But even if I am remembering incorrectly about the cup, you have to think about how it appears to your clients. Also, I was not contacted about further classes or anything of that sort. I was told the “weather was bad.” That was it. Communication and professional etiquette definitley need some focus as far as this goes. Letting customers repeatedly drive for 40 minutes to an hour to get to you just so you can cancel in person is not fair to your customers. No phone calls, no text, and no emails were sent to me to let me know it was being ‘rescheduled.’ The lack of updates/communication is just not fair to clients. If what you say about the friend is true, that is really unfortunate and I am sorry to hear. That still doesn’t change that clients should have been contacted regarding canceled classes.

Our pups got a great board and train foundation focusing on leash reactivity, impulse control, and leash manners. I’m so thrilled with their day care program, too. We’ve sent them to other daycares in the past where they’re with 30 other dogs monitored by a few untrained teens or adults on their phones. I love sending them to Top Paw where they’re in small groups with trainers who train them in areas I ask for, give them breaks, offer field trips, and know my dogs!