Nutz About Mutz Behavior & Training Services

Nutz About Mutz offers tailored training approaches for each dog’s unique personality and disposition, using scientifically proven force-free techniques. Training focuses on teaching owners how to effectively communicate with their dogs and understand canine body language.

The Separation Anxiety program is a 12-week virtual program designed to help dogs learn to feel safe and comfortable when left unattended. This program emphasizes that SA is a panic disorder and often requires prescription antidepressant medication for successful treatment, which is a non-negotiable commitment for clients. It also requires clients to ensure the dog is never left alone longer than they can currently handle without panicking, which may involve hiring sitters or using dog daycare. Clients must have in-home cameras with specific features (audio, recording, wide-angle/pan/tilt) to monitor their dog during training sessions and for personal review. The program progresses at the dog’s pace, with potential plateaus or setbacks.

Pricing Summary

A $75 nonrefundable deposit is due within 24 hours of scheduling to hold a session time. The balance is due one week prior to the scheduled session or start date. If a session is scheduled within one week, the balance is due in full within 24 hours of booking.

Remote Consultation: $275 for a 60-90 minute session.
In-Person Consultation: $275 for a 60-90 minute session.
1-Hour Training Session (follow-up): $150 for a 60-minute session.
Assistant Fee: $28 per session if an assistant is required and enlisted by the trainer.
Puppy Package: Includes a 90-minute Puppy Consultation plus 8 private 1-hour training sessions.
Separation Anxiety Program: A 12-week virtual program.
Other Popular Packages: 4 One-Hour Sessions.
Prepaid packages have an expiration date 4 months from the date of initial purchase. A prorated refund is available for unused package sessions up to 7 days after initial purchase. Completed training sessions will be charged at the full hourly rate of $150 (plus any travel fees), plus a $25 administrative fee to process the refund. Group class sales are final with no refund after the first session. Returned checks incur a $35 fee. Discount rates are available for multi-session packages.

Policies

A $75 nonrefundable deposit is due within 24 hours of scheduling to hold a session time. The balance is due one week prior to the scheduled session or start date. If a session is scheduled within one week, the balance is due in full within 24 hours of booking.

For prepaid sessions, 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel without penalty; less than 48 hours’ notice results in forfeiture of that paid session. A forfeited session can be rescheduled for a $75 reschedule fee plus any associated travel fees. Group class sales are final, with no refund available after the first session. Prepaid packages expire 4 months from the date of initial purchase. A prorated refund is available for unused package sessions up to 7 days after initial purchase, with completed sessions charged at the full hourly rate ($150 plus travel fees) and a $25 administrative fee. Returned checks (insufficient funds) incur a $35 fee. Clients agree to forgo unapproved tools/methods, and using them is grounds for contract termination without refund. Clients are responsible for damages or injuries caused by their dog/s or family members.

Nutz About Mutz Behavior & Training Services is led by Jody Epstein, a highly experienced and certified professional specializing in dog behavior modification and training. Jody’s philosophy centers on addressing the root cause of behavior challenges by helping dogs make new associations and change their emotional responses, rather than suppressing behaviors with aversive tools. She uses scientifically proven force-free methods such as Counter Conditioning, Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), Engage/Disengage, and Click-to-Calm.

The business aims to help dogs become better companions and teach pet parents effective communication and understanding of canine body language. Jody has over 18 years of training experience, with 13 years specializing in behavior modification. She previously served as a behavior manager for humane societies and as Department Chair: Training & Behavior at The Academy of Pet Careers, where she trained aspiring professionals.

Nutz About Mutz offers solutions for a wide range of issues, from basic manners to complex behavioral problems like separation anxiety, fear-aggression, and resource guarding. They emphasize a patient and flexible approach, adjusting techniques to suit each individual dog’s needs. The business also highlights that dog health insurance may cover behavior services, and they provide detailed intake forms for general behavior and specific separation anxiety cases.

Accomplishments

Jody Epstein holds a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Animals and Public Policy with a minor in Animal Behavior from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. She has further graduate school education in Animal Learning & Behavior from the University of Montana and the University of Louisiana. Jody is the only board-certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (ACAAB) in Missouri. She is also a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA), a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), and a Fear Free Certified Professional Trainer. Jody was voted Top Trainer among Force Free trainers for St. Charles & St. Peters, MO in 2023 via SniffSpot, and Top Trainer for the entire St. Louis region in 2024. She has provided freelance behavior assistance at shelters and rescues and has given seminars on canine body language, leash handling, and breaking up dog fights.

How to Get Started!

To get started, clients need to complete either the general Behavior/Health/Training intake form or the specific Separation Anxiety Intake Form. After submission, the trainer will be in touch within 72 business hours. Successful submission will result in an email confirmation. Appointments are by appointment only.