"Rocco"

The Brusen Family - "Rocco" - Doberman

As you read all these testimonials, we hope that ours is one that might also encourage you to take your dog to Canine Academy!  

     Our Doberman, Rocco, was a year and a half old when we enrolled him in the Off-Leash Program.  He WAS a good dog, with a great personality - but he only listened to us when he wanted to, and he NEVER came when he was called (unless we shook the doggie biscuit jar)!  And this was even after taking him to Beginner Obedience Classes elsewhere.  We have 2 young sons, and our home and yard is always filled with children playing.  Our greatest concern was that we had this very big, powerful dog that gave no heed to any command (most times) - and we were very worried that with all the children always over, that he may inadvertently hurt someone because of his sheer size.  We have a very busy family and work life, and trying to find the time to take him to classes AND to train him daily - just wasn't working out fairly for him.  We aren't professional dog trainers and we felt that we would be making the best decision for him in sending him to someone who is an expert, and who does this for a living!  Soooooooo, we made an appointment with Lisa and knew immediately after talking with her, that this was the place for Rocco!  She walked us through everything that would happen during his training process and made us feel very confident that while he was there, he would be treated with love and kindness.  

     When we picked him up after 6 weeks, we were totally blown away with how obedient - and happy - he was!!!  He was still our kind-hearted, loveable Rocco - but NOW he listened to us, and he 'watched' us, and he responded immediately and happily when we gave him a command!  The proof in the pudding came when we brought him home and let him loose on our 4 acre property.  He caught sight of some deer and took off running after them!!!  The command "COME" didn't even pass my lips, and he immediately turned around and came running BACK to me, as fast as he had been running AFTER the deer!!!  It was an amazing sight to see, and it gives me chills every time I remember it!!
 
     In the first week that Rocco was home, we joined Canine Academy in a spring parade here in Michigan where there were no less than 500 dogs!!  I had him off-leash during the WHOLE parade - with all those dogs, and all the spectators, and all the 'marching bands'!!!  He never left my side - and the smile never left my face!!! 

     He's still great with our sons, and our company and guests, and now we are more at ease because we know that if he heads off running somewhere - or starts to play too rough, we can just call out a command and know that he will respond immediately!  We take him EVERYWHERE now!  He's gone with us to the optometrist, to the shoe store, to the county fair, to the farm and garden center, AND to my son's karate class!  Imagine how cool it is to see Rocco at the edge of a karate class with 60 kids in it, all running around - and he's just calmly lying down, watching!!!  He makes us so proud!!  And he's an absolute JOY to have around!!  I can't tell you how many times people tell me they want a dog "just like Rocco!"!  And you know what I say back to them?  "You CAN have a dog just like Rocco!  Just take your dog to Canine Academy!"!  
     Sending your dog to Canine Academy will not only improve the quality of YOUR life - but most importantly, it will improve the quality of your DOG'S life.  Everyone will want your dog - and he will not only be loved by your family - but he will be loved by everyone that he is around!!!!!!  
 
p.s.    Another function that I attended with Rocco, was a luncheon at a local restaurant (outside on the patio) which was hosted by Lisa.  Imagine how impressed you would be to see 60 adults and children, AND 27 dogs!!!!!!!!!!.....all dining peacefully - and quietly - without an interruption from any of our 4-legged friends!!!!  (Especially with all that food around!)!!  It was a sight to see!  And something that made me feel very proud to be a part of!  My deepest and heartfelt thanks for EVERYTHING that Lisa, Gretchen and all the wonderful trainers at Canine Academy have done - not only during the training process - but also for the continued weekly support that is available!!!  You ARE the best!   Canine Academy ROCKS!!!!

"Bruno"

The Schulz Family - "Bruno" - Bernese Mountain Dog

To All The People Out There Who Have A Good Dog, But Want a GREAT Dog™:
Six years ago, we acquired our nine week old Bernese Mountain dog, Bruno. We did the best we could to teach him how to behave like a good dog, but it wasn’t enough. Finally, when he was three years old, we heard about Canine Academy and the Off-Leash Program. It has changed the whole way we live with our dog. 

The Academy taught Bruno that he needs us to keep him safe and because of that, he looks to us and depends on us for the commands to do just that. Bruno has been a graduate of the Off-Leash Program for almost three years now, and WOW! How our life has changed since he went to camp! The bonus to all of this is, three years later, we are still invited and encouraged to participate in the Off-Leash Outings.
Bruno has been to show and tell at preschool - twice! He walks with me to the bus stop to pick up my daughter - off-leash of course, and he lies down when the bus pulls up. My four and six year old daughters can walk him on a leash. My guests can arrive at my house for parties, while Bruno lies on his mat and watches them come in; before he would need to be the “greeter”. Bruno will come instantly when I call, even when he is in hot pursuit of a squirrel.  
These are just a few examples of what they Off-Leash Program has done for our dog and our family. Bruno now enjoys a lot more privileges, and is able to participate in family outings.
Thank you so much Canine Academy! We now have a “GREAT dog”!
Charlie, Lea, Francesca, Chloe, and Bruno Schulz

"Kona"

Tull Family - "Kona"

We had taken Kona thru the normal reward based training and we thought we had a good dog that listened. That was as long you were holding a treat in your hand. Then, one day last fall she decided to jump out of the Jeep's window and run down the street ignoring our calls to come. That's when we knew we needed professional help. We found Canine Academy and, after meeting with Lisa and her staff, we decided it was just what we wanted for Kona. It was hard to leave her for 6 weeks but it ended up being well worth the wait. Now, she's the dog everyone wants to own. Her leash is just decoration for her now as she shows off her heel all around town. Having company over isn't a problem either, she holds her down-stay in place until given the OK. She never misses her come command, we have confidence taking her into any situation. She draws crowds in the Pet store, people can't believe a puppy can be that good. When you have a 90 pound puppy, being in control isn't optional. 
Thanks to all the staff at Canine Academy, we love our great dog.

Abby & Jeff Tull

"Angel" and "Jazz"

Rutkowski/Ward Family - "Angel" and "Jazz" - Siberian Huskies 

We had been to puppy training classes, dog obedience classes, clicker training classes – none of them worked.  Our two Siberian Huskies, Angel and Jazz, were just typical huskies.  They paid attention for the first ten minutes, after that, they became bored.  We spent much of our free time scolding them for doing things like digging holes, pulling our landscape lights out, running around the yard with our newly planted flowers hanging from their mouths.  Walking on a leash was like losing in a tug of war contest.  When it was time to come in, it was time for us to go out and chase them around the yard in order to get them into the house. 
We found Canine Academy at the Detroit AKC Kennel Club Show and were initially very skeptical.  Huskies could not be trained off leash – so we thought.   Gretchen convinced us to come for a visit and we did.  We spent an hour with Lisa and by the time we left, both our dogs were enrolled in the Off Leash Program.  What different lives we have now…our dogs go everywhere with us.  I never would have imagined that our dogs (huskies) could be running off leash down a beach not to mention coming back to my command before they reached the large flock of seagulls.  It is truly amazing.  I thank Canine Academy for giving us our sanity back and two GREAT dogs.

"Emma"

The Stokfisz Family - "Emma" - Cocker Spaniel

Lisa, Gretchen, and the rest of the trainers at MCA,

WE HAVE A GREAT DOG! It's been a year since Emma came home from the program and she is still a great dog. You remember Emma, cute little cocker puppy, who at 8 months old, decided to take on a husky in the Intermediate Class. Puppy with attitude! Enrolling her in the Off-Leash Program was an easy decision. We could not have a dog that could not be controlled. Your Program gave us that ability. Emma is still the cute little Cocker, but now we know to "expect" her to react and can be prepared to keep her safe. We love to be able to take Emma to the park and let her run, confident that she will come back immediately when called. What a convenience to ask her to "wait" so we can get out of the car first, without her pushing to get out of the car ahead of us. The continued Off-Leash outings that we attend with Emma are really great. Not only are they wonderful for Emma to socialize, but they also allow us to stay consistent in our responsibility to her. We tell everyone we know that has a dog that the program isn't just for dogs with attitude or behavior issues. We recommend the Program for ALL dogs and owners. The results are amazing! Thank you for teaching us know to keep Emma safe and helping her to be a better member of our family. She really was a good puppy, but now she's a great dog! 

"Minnie"

The Bowers Family - "Minnie"

We would like to express how much we appreciate all of your hard work; Minnie is doing wonderful! I didn’t think it was possible, but we love her more than ever. Having her under control has made all our lives easier. You have turned a great pet into an awesome companion (thanks to your training). Minnie will have a better life and get to see the world, since we plan on taking her most every place we go. If we were to bring another dog into our home, we would be more than happy to use you again.
Many thanks to all who helped with Minnie!

"Luke, Sara and Dylan"

The Zolno Family - "Luke, Sara and Dylan" - Lab, Retriever, and Retriever

Our precious black Labrador, Luke, was a challenge from the moment we got him at 7 weeks old.  We already had a 1 1/2 year old Golden Retriever (Sara) at home, and I was prepared for the extra work involved with two dogs, but completely unprepared for the neurotic behavior of Luke.  He suffered from separation anxiety, literally dragged me whenever on a leash, thought the word “come” meant run as fast as you can in any direction not near my owner, and couldn’t sit still for more than 30 seconds.  I went to bed exhausted every night and was ready to tear my hair out in frustration when a friend of mine told me about Canine Academy.  I was dialing the phone before he could finish his sentence.  I will always remember the first time we saw Luke after he completed his 6 week off-leash training.  I cried, not only because I was so happy to see him, but because I knew not only his life, but mine had been changed dramatically.  He was obedient, perfectly trained and a complete joy to be around.  We were so shocked and impressed, that within one month, we brought our Golden Retriever, Sara, in for the Off-Leash Program and currently have our third dog, a Golden Retriever named Dylan, in the Program.  We would never have considered getting a third dog if it weren’t for the training at Canine Academy. We now have 3 dogs under 3 years old and when you enter my house, you wouldn’t even know they are there. I have been through training programs with other dogs I have had through the years, but no one has had the abilities of the staff at Canine Academy.  Their continued support after your dog comes home makes the transition easy and comfortable for you and will give you the confidence you need to maintain the training they have given your dog.  I want to thank the entire staff at Canine Academy, particularly Lisa and Gretchen, for everything they have done and continue to do for us and our dogs.

"Gracie"

Colleen and Dave Matthews - "Gracie" – Lab Mix

Proven, unbelievable results – that’s what Canine Academy will provide. We saw them in action at the Rochester Holiday Parade: over a dozen dogs representing various breeds and mixes, no leashes at the time, all obeying their owners. That compelled us to look into the Program and we can honestly say we’re not sure who got the most out of the Off-Leash Program: Gracie or us. You’ll often hear Canine Academy talk about confidence and safety – it’s true. Gracie was the most skittish dog: afraid of people, terrified by pretty much everything. We knew the possibilities, but were absolutely stunned by the realty! Before, the two of us had to chase and sandwich our dog between our garage and fence to get her in the house. Now, we just say her name or give a command and she comes running. Before, Gracie would act aggressively towards the mailman and timid when new friends would come over. Now, we tell her to lie on her mat and she stays there calmly. The trainers walk you through what you need to know and provide follow up classes where you’ll discuss additional situations others have encountered, so you’ll know how to respond. We even called Lisa the first week we had Gracie back and she walked us through a situation over the phone (talk about service and guaranteeing success)! It wasn’t Gracie’s fault – we just needed to understand how to guide her. This program is an investment, but the only regrets we have is that we didn’t bring her sooner and that we foolishly took her to basic obedience elsewhere. Our former trainer used techniques we weren’t comfortable with, while Canine Academy takes a positive reinforcement approach. Your dog will truly be treated like one of trainers’ dogs and we can see the excitement in Gracie each time we go back. Seeing is believing … if you’re on the fence, come see the Canine Academy dogs in action. We’re so pleased that we’ll be back with our next dog and the one after that!

"Otis"

The McDonnell Family - "Otis" - Jack Russell Terrier

Dear Lisa, Gretchen, Sarah and the staff at Metamora Canine Academy,

I am writing this letter to thank you for rescuing my family and me from our once-incorrigible dog, Otis. We were at the end of our rope!  Our German landlord complained about him (German’s don’t have bad dogs).  He growled at our 4 and 2 year old children.  He had to be kenneled during mealtime or he would climb onto the children’s chairs and steal their food.  He would yelp and whine in his kennel and growl if we told him to “quiet”!  We are a very social couple, and we could not have company without removing the dog from the situation.  When Otis was a puppy, he would get excited, jump, and then get over it in about 2 minutes.  After time passed, he became a danger to our company.  He growled and barked at the male visitors.  He jumped on everyone that came in.  He scared our elderly guests and child guests.  Worst of all, if anyone paid him one iota of attention, he proceeded to hump that person for the rest of the night.
I can say in earnest that without Canine Academy, Otis would not be with us right now.  He was off to a rescue, or the humane society.  My wife and I argued over him almost every day.  He was the largest source of stress in our life. My wife’s brother lives near Canine Academy and informed us about it.  We were still living overseas, so we checked it out on the internet and read the other testimonials.  We then called Lisa, and talked to her for about an hour.  We continued to think about the investment, and were doubtful Otis could be ‘fixed.’  He was, after all, 7 years old, and still a Jack Russell Terrorist.
In October of 2005, I flew back to the USA on business and brought Otis with me.  I dropped him off at  Canine Academy and bid him farewell.  That was the last time I saw my crazy Otis.  We returned to the US at the end of 2005.  We picked Otis up on my birthday, and it was the best present I have received in years.  Canine Academy returned to us a well-behaved, stress-free, joy-to-be-around Otis.
Thank you, to Lisa, Gretchen, Sarah and your staff.  You saved a dog, helped a marriage, and a family.  I say this honestly.  My life is 10-fold easier with a well-behaved Otis.  I would recommend Canine Academy to anyone who is at the end of their bad dog rope.  You accomplished what I thought to be impossible:  You fixed Otis.

"Molly"

The Chandler Family - "Molly"

“I don’t ever want to see that dog again!” I managed to get those words out in a very ragged and winded voice. True I said it out of pure frustration, after what had to be my twentieth game of chase with that dog. But despite the disappointed look on my family’s faces, I meant it. I couldn’t take that dog disrupting my life, um; I mean our lives any longer. If she wasn’t coaxing me into a game of chase by grabbing something she shouldn’t have, she was digging up fresh sod or banging at the storm doors. Oh that isn’t all. She would pull on the leash with all her might nearly separating your arm from your shoulder. And I can’t forget to mention the time she stole a steak knife from our dinner table and ran with it, nearly holding us hostage in our own home. So you see my point? She had to go. What’s that you say? She can’t be all that bad? Ok I’ll give you that. She does have a good quality; she doesn’t have an aggressive bone in her body. Alright maybe just one more, she loves me despite all my faults. But still all the rest, how could you expect me to keep her?

Well I will answer that question for you: Canine Academy. As if by some miracle we ran across a newsletter with their ad. We enrolled Molly in their Beginner Class. That was all it took for us to realize they could definitely help us. See, all this time Molly wasn’t failing me; I was failing her with my lack of knowledge and patience. Molly finished beginner training and went directly into the Off Leash Program. After completing the 6-week Off Leash Program there was an unbelievable change in her. She is still our goofy girl only now she has an ear and an eye out for us at all times. All I can say is, it was a good thing I stood my ground and didn’t let the rest of the family pass such harsh judgment on our wonderful Molly. Our lives would never have been the same without her. Psssst, don’t tell Lisa this but I would have gladly paid double for these results. We would like to personally thank everyone at  Canine Academy for your dedication to your craft. I would also like to thank my wife, Karen, who's confidence in Molly never waivered.

Have a good dog? Want a GREAT dog? ™