Zen Critter, LLC

Zen Critter offers a range of specialized training programs for both dogs and other small animals. For cats and other critters, they provide custom-designed in-home Life Skills Packages covering topics like kennel training, medication administration, physical exams, handling, nail trimming, toweling, and bite inhibition. They also offer Behavior Modification, which requires a veterinary health check and an initial consultation to determine goals and suitable training packages, as well as Intraspecies and Interspecies Introductions to help pets get along.

For dogs, Zen Critter specializes in Separation Anxiety training, which is conducted online via Zoom using systematic desensitization without food or aversive techniques. This program requires a 45-minute consultation and offers both a Light Program (weekly check-ins, customized plans via SA Pro Training App) and an Extended Program (bi-weekly check-ins, more customized plans). Their Dog Walking and Leash Manners services include trainer-led walks for dogs, even those with reactivity or pulling, and a Leash Manners Program with twice-weekly sessions over 6-12 weeks, including transfer of knowledge sessions for owners.

The Surviving Puppyhood program, for puppies 9 weeks to 5 months, focuses on basic manners and life skills. It includes an orientation on positive reinforcement, chew choices, introductions, and bite inhibition, with weekly topics like sit, polite greetings, attention, mat training, recall, leash manners, and impulse control. This program is available as a Private Coaching Package (weekly in-home sessions on the Northern Oregon Coast), an Online Package (weekly Zoom meetings with email support), and a continuation package called Surviving Puppyhood While Out and About (trainer guides puppy through distractions in real-world settings without owner present, on the Northern Oregon Coast).

Pricing Summary

Zen Critter offers a sliding scale for their rates. Clients are required to submit a form to inquire about specific training rates. For separation anxiety training packages, a 45-minute consultation is a prerequisite.

Policies

For behavior modification for cats and other critters, a veterinarian must perform a health check before scheduling a consult. For separation anxiety training packages, a 45-minute consultation is required prior to signing up.

If a dog is reactive, pulls, or lunges during walks, training walks are required until the trainer deems the dog ready for normal walks. For the “Surviving Puppyhood While Out and About” package, clients must first complete either the Private Coaching or Online Puppyhood packages. Zen Critter does not work with aggressive dogs.

Zen Critter, LLC is a private, woman-owned, small business dedicated to helping animals and their owners achieve peace and happiness through compassionate, science-based training methods. They strive to use the most up-to-date scientific principles, focusing on positive reinforcement and force-free training. Their mission is to help companions and their guardians form stronger, happier, and lasting bonds for life.

Zen Critter offers a wide variety of training programs for dogs, focusing on separation anxiety, manners, socialization, and life skills. They also provide specialized services for cats and other small animals, helping them live stress-free, enriching lives by addressing issues like veterinary visit stress, litter box problems, and interspecies introductions. Additionally, they offer dog walking services where a trainer walks the dog, even if the dog has reactivity or pulling issues.

It is important to note that Zen Critter does not work with aggressive dogs.

Accomplishments

Christa Shannon, the trainer, holds certifications as a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT), Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP), Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer (Cert. SAPT), and Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP). She began her career as a veterinary technician before shifting her focus to animal training.

Christa graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy of Professional Dog Trainers and is recognized as a Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer. She is committed to continuing education and professional development by attending seminars and staying current on industry literature. Zen Critter, LLC is well respected and referred to by local veterinarians.

How to Get Started!

To get started, clients can email info@zencritter.com to book training or submit a form to inquire about rates. For separation anxiety training, the first step is a 45-minute Zoom consultation to discuss myths, training methods, and resources, with no obligation to sign up for a package afterward.

For behavior modification for cats and other critters, an initial consultation is required after a veterinarian performs a health check. This consultation involves taking a detailed history, determining goals, providing immediate management solutions, and identifying the appropriate training package. A contact form is available on the website for inquiries, requesting information such as name, address, email, phone, desired service, pet type, and a message.