Another Dog Whisperer

[Kavik]

I used to go to Manly & Districts so am trying to remember him - think I did meet him but don't remember much. Garry Somerville was head instructor when I was there (I certainly remember Garry!) - was a long time ago :laugh:

ETA: I only attended the classes in Mosman so didn't meet any of the instructors at Deep Creek Reserve

Edited April 17, 2012 by Kavik

[itsadogslife]

Posted by Weasels Because it is an unregulated industry there are many horror stories about dog problems being exacerbated or new problems being created due to inappropriate training techniques. People are sharing their opinions/experience about what statements or omissions make them cautious about a particular trainer.

Some of us have also heard quite a few horror stories of dog problems being exacerbated or new problems being created due to inappropriate advice being given by "qualified behaviorists". As for his qualifications he has stated that he has over 25 years experience training dogs. Now whilst that would not be enough in itself for me to pay for his services it would be enough for me to give him a ring and enquire as to his methods.

Personally I would not trust or go near anyone with a degree unless further information was provided as to their experience working dogs.

[persephone]

Not heard of him .. and I think perhaps we should not have a link here posted publicly to increase hits on his website ..

[OSoSwift]

Posted by Weasels Because it is an unregulated industry there are many horror stories about dog problems being exacerbated or new problems being created due to inappropriate training techniques. People are sharing their opinions/experience about what statements or omissions make them cautious about a particular trainer.

Some of us have also heard quite a few horror stories of dog problems being exacerbated or new problems being created due to inappropriate advice being given by "qualified behaviorists". As for his qualifications he has stated that he has over 25 years experience training dogs. Now whilst that would not be enough in itself for me to pay for his services it would be enough for me to give him a ring and enquire as to his methods.

Personally I would not trust or go near anyone with a degree unless further information was provided as to their experience working dogs.

I have 20 years experience training, trialing and showing dogs and I am definately no expert. I help where I can and refer when I know it is above my abilities. I do not charge for my help.

[shyfig]

Thanks everyone for your replies and apologize for my absence in responding to comments. I spoke in great length to this gentleman last night and discovered also that he has clients in my town. They have vouched very well for him. I have him booked to come to my place next Monday and Tuesday so will let you know how it goes.

[OSoSwift]

Go to hear, will watch out for the update :)

[DOGPERSON]

About "dog whisperer kev " based in the innner west of melbourne

In reply to this comment by a user on here:

"shyfig, on 16 April 2012 - 01:40 AM, said:

I'm wondering if anyone has heard of this guy at all http://www.goodwithdogs.com/page1.php

"It makes me Lough a little to see how people justify their behaviour, my comment was made because not to many of you answered the question, you rather criticised the guy. (right or wrong)

There are many vets out there that would not know the first thing about behaviour and using drugs to calm dogs down etc which is not always the right option but maybe and easy option.

Also I don't know this guy but like before I find it funny how many people are so critical and bitchy. This are only my thought and also I am all good for useful advice.

Maybe we should change the question and say "can you look at this website and criticise" "

Reading through the previous comments I take your point. There is a lot of random hostility going on here. Can I respectfully add to the discussion?

I have worked with several dogs (not as an alleged trainer or behaviourist) which were near red zone and being put down BECAUSE vets had recommended chaining up the barking dogs (rather than walk them daily) and then had pumped them full of drugs to quieten them down (rather than walk them) which made the dogs go even crazier. NOT ALL VETS would do that, but I have seen this option be offered and taken up too many times not to be coincidence.

Vets must be qualified, and you are right they are not taught a long time about dog behaviour issues unless they specialise in that area.

The issue with the dog services industry is that it is low pay and unregulated. THOUGH if you are a dog trainer, I would highly suggest you should have some form of qualification. What some people are doing is sneakily getting around the concept that people might expect a trainer to be trained, so they call themselves a dog behaviourist or 'dog whisperer'.

I have met several people who have met Kev the dog whisperer, and your fears are correct. Here is a summation of Kevin White facts.

He has no formal qualifications in dog training (or at least he doesnt advertise them)

He has stolen the name 'dog whisperer' knowing that the popularity of Cesar Milan will get Kev ranked on Google for no real reason.

You will see that Kev heavily leverage's off the RSPCA name (in any of his marketing material) because he once volunteered there.

Kev the dog whisperer prefers negative training techniques such as 'alpha rolls' and 'foot taps' that many trainers believe should be banned in the industry.

Kev often works with powerful/ dangerous dogs, and usually goes into off-lead areas (before the dogs are ready) putting other owners and their dogs at risk.

Kev doesnt seem to have an ABN (ie trackable for tax) or having a website of his own. So you will have little recourse to authorities if you use him. He might get "results" with your dog, you may not like how he gets them though. Very old school (plus youtube clips no doubt).

As to whether you trust him, that is your option. But you are right, it is a shame that 'dog whisperers' don't seem to have to have any official certification.

Edited April 7, 2014 by DOGPERSON

[Loving my Oldies]

LOL - nothing like resurrecting old threads :laugh:

We never did get any updates from shyfig. What a shame as it is good to hear the good and/or the bad.

If I were looking for a trainer, I'd be running a mile from anyone calling themselves a "whisperer" of any description.

[cavNrott]

Thanks everyone for your replies and apologize for my absence in responding to comments. I spoke in great length to this gentleman last night and discovered also that he has clients in my town. They have vouched very well for him. I have him booked to come to my place next Monday and Tuesday so will let you know how it goes.

Talk about draging up a 2 year old post..why?

If Shyfig had this guy in West Melboure coming to his/her place on the following Monday and Tuesday then that would be quite a trip for the 'whisperer' considering he is in West Melbourne and shyfig is in NSW.

In addition DOGPERSON, from your post it's impossible to work out if you're quoting someone else or offering your own opinion unless you indicate which is which.

[DOGPERSON]

Thanks everyone for your replies and apologize for my absence in responding to comments. I spoke in great length to this gentleman last night and discovered also that he has clients in my town. They have vouched very well for him. I have him booked to come to my place next Monday and Tuesday so will let you know how it goes.

Talk about draging up a 2 year old post..why?

If Shyfig had this guy in West Melboure coming to his/her place on the following Monday and Tuesday then that would be quite a trip for the 'whisperer' considering he is in West Melbourne and shyig is in NSW.

In addition DOGPERSON, from your post it's impossible to work out if you're quoting someone else or offering your own opinion unless you indicate which is which.

Perhaps you should just read the facts then. NO cert, no website, no abn, negative reinforcement. your choice. I am sure that there are many dog trainers that go through the proper channels and run an accredited business. Again your choice.

[cavNrott]

OK but I assure you I have no interest in the assistance of any 'whisperer'.