In brief
You’ll be able to walk your dog with steadier control, use the same cues outside that work inside, and follow a homework plan that makes sense between sessions, not just during them.
I’ll assess what’s driving the pulling and barking, then coach you through handling that you can repeat between sessions. You’ll leave with a plan you can run on your usual route, and a dog you can manage outside. If you’d like to start, I’ll book the intake call first.
I start with your history form and a short intake call so I know what you’re seeing day to day. Then I watch you handle your dog where the problems happen, adjust grip, timing, and position, and build a simple routine you can repeat. Between sessions, you’ll practise a small set of drills that match your schedule and your walking route.
A bit about me
I’m Mara Donnelly, a dog trainer, and I run Olney Canine as a one-person practice. Most of my work is with owners who need skills that work on sidewalks, in hallways, and around everyday distractions. I teach handling first, then add structure and repetition so the dog can learn the same rules in more than one place.
I don’t sell mystery methods. In each session I show you what I’m looking at, what I’m changing, and what to practise next. I’ll tell you when an exercise is ready to move from the living room to the front steps, because skipping that step is how training falls apart outdoors.
“The sessions gave me a plan I could actually use on walks.”
Dog owner, living in an apartment building
Your sessions
Most private sessions are 60 minutes. I usually start in your home to set handling and cues, then we take the work into your hallway, entry, and normal walking route. You’ll want your regular leash, a flat collar or harness, and a few easy treats if your dog can take food outside.
1. Intake and history Before session 1 I send a short history form and book a call to cover your goals, your dog’s routine, and any safety concerns. I’ll ask what you’ve tried so far and what happens right before things go wrong, because that tells me where to start in the first session. 2. Handling session First session I watch you walk, reward, and redirect your dog the way you normally do, then I adjust leash length, hand position, and timing so your cues land cleanly. We’ll pick two or three skills to practise right away, then write a small homework plan you can repeat daily. 3. Walk coaching Each session We work where the behaviour shows up, which can include your building entrance, the sidewalk, and your usual route. I’ll coach you through set-ups, spacing, and turns you can use around other dogs. If tools are part of the plan, I’ll fit them and show you how to use them safely. 4. Progress check-in Between sessions After each session you’ll send a quick update on what you practised and what you’re seeing. I’ll adjust your homework for the next week, including when to raise difficulty and when to drop it back. If you hit a snag, I’ll tell you what to change on the next walk.
Pricing
Most people start with a single session, then move into a pack once I’ve seen the dog on a real walk and you’ve had a week of homework.
Priced items
Get started
If you’d like to move forward, sign below and I’ll send my intake form and booking link.
1. Sign and return this proposal. 2. Watch for your invoice and pay it within 7 days. 3. Book your intake call, then we’ll schedule session one.
Signature
Fee summary
How many sessions does this usually take?
It depends on what you’re working on and how often you can practise. Most owners start to feel a difference after a few sessions of consistent homework. After the intake call and first session, I’ll recommend a pace and a rough session count for your goals.
DO YOU TRAIN WITH TREATS, TOOLS, OR BOTH?
I use treats when they help the dog learn faster and stay engaged, especially early on. I also teach leash handling and management so you can stay safe. If a tool makes sense, I’ll explain why, fit it correctly, and show you exactly how to use it.
CAN YOU WORK ON THIS IN MY BUILDING AND ON OUR USUAL WALKING ROUTE?
Yes. I prefer to train where the problems happen, because hallway noise, doorways, and sidewalk traffic change the picture. We’ll start where your dog can succeed, then move toward the harder spots once your handling and your dog’s responses are consistent.
WHAT DO I DO BETWEEN SESSIONS SO I DON’T UNDO IT?
You’ll follow a short homework plan with a few drills and clear rules for walks. I’ll tell you what to practise, how long to do it, and what “good enough” looks like before you raise difficulty. If something is not working, you’ll change the set-up, not push through it.
Payment
I invoice at the start of the pack, program, or membership period, before those sessions take place. Every invoice is payable within 7 days of its date.
Scheduling. Session times are held once they are booked. If you need to move a session, I will offer the next available times that keep your training momentum and match your practice schedule.
Cancellations. Life happens. My cancellation window, late-cancel fee, and no-show fee are set by me and listed on your invoice. If you cancel outside that window, I will not charge a fee and we will reschedule.
Packs and expiry. Session packs are meant to be used while the homework is still fresh. Any expiry window or extension policy is set by me and shown on your invoice so there is no guesswork later.
Between sessions
Progress depends on what happens between sessions. I will give you a short homework plan, and you will practise it as agreed. If something is falling apart, tell me and I will adjust the set-up.
Tools and treats. I use treats when they help learning move faster, especially early on. I also teach handling and management for safety. If I recommend a tool, I will explain why, fit it, and show you how to use it.
Training locations. I can train in your building and on your usual walking route. I will choose starting distances and locations that keep everyone safe, then move closer to the harder spots as skills hold up.
What dog training is and is not. Dog training is coaching, practice, and follow-through. I cannot guarantee a specific result on a specific timeline, and this is not veterinary care or a substitute for medical or behavioural health treatment.
