Bo’s Pawsitive K9 Services

Training begins with an in-home assessment to tailor a program to the dog’s age, behavior, and family dynamics. Programs include puppy training (cognitive development, potty, crate, leash walking), basic obedience (sit, stay, recall, loose leash walking), behavioral modification (reactivity, fear, destruction), CGC prep and testing, and specialized grooming desensitization. Training is delivered in sessions with consistent pacing, focusing on the 3 D’s (duration, distance, distractions) and positive reinforcement. All training is conducted in the client’s home to ensure real-world application.

Pricing Summary

Training packages start at $600 for puppy training, $700 for basic training, $750 for behavioral training, and $800 for CGC certification. Grooming training is priced after an evaluation. All prices are for the entire course of the program, with no hidden fees. Packages are customizable based on individual needs.

Bo’s Pawsitive K9 Services is a dog training and grooming business founded by Vicky Kontomichalos, a certified professional dog trainer with over 10 years of experience in the dog industry, and her wife Kara Weidaw-Kontomichalos, a licensed dog groomer with over 10 years of experience. They offer in-home dog training and grooming services focused exclusively on positive reinforcement methods, avoiding all aversive tools like shock collars, prong collars, and choke chains. Their approach emphasizes building trust, empathy, and understanding between dogs and their owners, helping families create lasting bonds through patience and consistency. They provide customized training packages for puppies, basic obedience, behavioral issues, CGC certification, and unique grooming desensitization programs. Their team is dedicated to adapting to each dog’s individual needs, including fearful or reactive dogs, and they integrate grooming and training to ensure holistic care. Vicky and Kara also share their personal journey with their own dogs, Rambo and Elsa, which exemplify the transformative power of positive training.

They serve dog owners seeking a compassionate, science-based approach to training and grooming, with a strong emphasis on making the process enjoyable and stress-free for both pets and families.

Accomplishments

Vicky Kontomichalos is a certified CPDT-KA and CGC Evaluator, a member of the APDT, and trained in ADA Service Dog and ESA training. She has over 14 years of experience in the dog industry, including retail and training roles. Her dog Rambo, a rescued mix, became a living example of positive training success after overcoming severe behavioral challenges. Kara Weidaw-Kontomichalos brings over 10 years of grooming experience from PetSmart, veterinary clinics, and daycares, specializing in anxious dogs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must schedule an in-home assessment to evaluate the dog’s needs and determine the appropriate training package. This evaluation is free and allows the trainers to customize a plan based on the dog’s age, behavior, and family goals.