Owning an uneducated dog that has no idea what is being asked of his is not a joy to be around. Yelling, hitting, locking them up, or giving them away solves nothing. It causes stress for the dog and owner. Owning a dog should not be stressful, it should be sheer enjoyment. My dogs bring me no monetary rewards but they provide me with companionship, protection, and help with my horses. I board and train Arabian show horses.

Four years ago a 10 month old male Dalmatian showed up at my barn covered in dog bites and blood. After a $300 vet bill I became the owner of a 70 lb bundled of terror. He would jump on people, chase their horses, and steal their equipment, all while I was yelling and chasing him. To his stall he would go, locked up and miserable. My dogs need to listen for the safety of themselves, myself, the horses, and other people. An uncontrolled dog can cause a rider to fall off a horse to injure themself, or the dog can get kicked.

Mr. Abney's class changed both of us. He is now tuned in to me at all times. He is happy, I am happy, life is great. He understands what I want, and is happy to respond. He trots along with me when I ride, he sticks to me like glue while I work, and he even catches mice. What joy it is to have him with me at all times. No yelling, no spanking, no locking him up. Mr. Abney trained me to train him.

Two months ago someone gave me a 10 month old male German Shepard that was out of control. He flattened me 20 times. I called Mr. Abney again for help. We are halfway through his class and it is miraculous how much he has changed.

I know without a doubt that I will now have two wonderful friends that fit into my life perfectly. They cause me no stress or heartache, only sheer enjoyment.

Thanks Mr. Abney

Terri Palmisano - Folsom, La.