Big River Canine Coach

Training begins with a mandatory evaluation to assess the dog’s behavior and owner goals. Programs include Puppy Preschool (3 sessions for 8–16 week olds), Group Level 1 Obedience (6 weeks), and Private Level 1 Obedience (6 weeks, completed within 12 weeks). Graduates may attend free Coach Class and Pack Walks for ongoing support. Private sessions are one-on-one with Donna at the facility, focusing on customized skill-building. All programs emphasize owner education and consistent leadership.

Pricing Summary

Evaluation is non-refundable and required before enrollment. Puppy Preschool is a 3-session program. Group Obedience Level 1 is 6 weeks with no listed price. Private Level 1 Obedience is 6 weeks (must be completed within 12 weeks) and costs $699. Coach Class and Pack Walks are free for graduates. Prices do not include tax.

Policies

Evaluations require non-refundable payment at time of scheduling. Private training programs like Level 1 Obedience must be completed within 12 weeks of starting. Rescheduling is allowed with advance notice by phone. All dogs must provide proof of vaccination or titer testing as permitted by law. No exceptions to vaccination requirements.

Big River Canine Coach, led by Donna A. May CPT, helps dog owners build calm, balanced relationships with their dogs through clear communication and proven training methods. Donna is a certified professional trainer with credentials from the National K9 Training Center and has trained under Cesar Millan. She offers both private and group training programs at her facility in Clinton, Iowa, specializing in basic obedience, puppy training, leash reactivity, fearfulness, and behavior modification. The business also provides free Coach Class and Pack Walks for graduates to maintain progress and socialize. Additional services include dog day care, pet boarding, and grooming. Donna emphasizes owner education, helping humans become consistent leaders, and tailors programs to individual needs and budgets.

All dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations, and evaluations are required before starting any program. Training is conducted in a spacious, immaculate facility, and follow-up support is available. Clients report significant improvements in dogs with anxiety, aggression, and reactivity, with many praising Donna’s professional, kind, and effective approach.

Accomplishments

Donna A. May is a graduate of the Certified Professional Trainer Program at National K9 Training Center in Columbus, Ohio. She completed Cesar Millan’s “Training Cesar’s Way” program at the Dog Psychology Center in Santa Clarita, California. She has attended multiple workshops to enhance her training methods and has operated Big River Canine Coach since 2016 after expanding from in-home services.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must schedule and pay for a mandatory evaluation to assess their dog’s behavior and training needs. Evaluations can be booked online or by phone. After the evaluation, trainers recommend specific programs based on goals and budget.