The Pet Agency

Training is individually customized based on a detailed behavioral history and assessment. Sessions focus on reward-based behavior modification, counter-conditioning, desensitization, and environmental enrichment. Programs include early puppy socialization (targeting 7–16 weeks), advanced leash training using head halters, agility, scent work, and service/therapy dog training. No group classes are currently scheduled; all training is private. Behavioral training includes veterinary consultation recommendations to rule out medical causes. Training duration and frequency vary by dog’s needs and owner commitment.

Pricing Summary

In-person training: $180 per 1-hour session. Phone/video training: $60 for 30 minutes, $120 for 60 minutes. Dog walking: $60 for 30 minutes, $120 for 60 minutes. Dog Walking Plus (walk and train) is priced at $180/session. Auxiliary support services are $60 for 30 minutes. Mileage fees apply for locations beyond Carmichael and Fair Oaks based on IRS standard rates.

Policies

Each training engagement requires approval of a brief training agreement that includes liability acknowledgment. The agreement is sent electronically via email or text; a paper version is available upon request. No cancellation or rescheduling policy is explicitly stated.

The Pet Agency is a professional dog training and dog walking business based in Carmichael, CA, founded in 2002 by Michelle, a Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer with a Master of Science in Human and Canine Life Sciences from Bergin College of Canine Studies. Michelle offers force-free, reward-based training that avoids all corrections, punishment, choke chains, prong collars, and shock collars, focusing instead on building trust, nurturance, and a secure human-canine bond through positive reinforcement and the oxytocin feedback loop. Services include early puppy socialization, adult dog training, leash training (including head halter instruction), agility training, scent work, and customized service/therapy dog training. All training is tailored to the individual dog and family, with behavioral assessments that consider medical history, environment, and emotional triggers. Dog walking services are available with options for “Dog Walking Plus,” which combines walks with training. Training is offered in-person at the client’s home, local parks, or other convenient locations, as well as via phone or video. Michelle also provides auxiliary services like pet product research, evaluations, and personalized shopping.

Michelle emphasizes prevention of behavior problems through early socialization, especially during the critical first 16 weeks of a puppy’s life. She collaborates with veterinarians to rule out medical causes for behavioral issues and refers complex cases to UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Behavioral Service when needed. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based practices from top veterinary behavior institutions like UC Davis and Tufts University.

The business is fully insured and holds a valid Sacramento County business license. Customer reviews consistently highlight Michelle’s kindness, expertise, and the positive transformation in dogs’ behavior and emotional well-being under her care.

Accomplishments

Michelle holds a Master of Science in Human and Canine Life Sciences from Bergin College of Canine Studies, is a Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer, and is a Certified Puppy Start Right Preschool Instructor. She has been providing force-free dog training and walking services since 2002, with over 20 years of experience applying evidence-based methods from UC Davis and Tufts University.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins by calling 916-968-3111 to schedule an appointment. A detailed behavioral history is gathered to customize a training plan. For behavioral issues, a veterinary exam is recommended before training begins. A training agreement must be reviewed and signed before sessions commence.