Geronimo Kennels

Let me preface this by saying I have a newfound admiration and respect for dedicated dog trainers. And I have a great respect for people that work with intention and extensive thought. I recently dropped off my first dog (Cooper) who’s almost 7 months old. He’s a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever or “Toller” for short. I grew up with dachshunds and slightly trained retrievers that understood basic commands. More or less, Geronimo or Kelly (head trainer/owner) specializes in the training of Tollers which are the smallest of the retriever clan. They are very energetic, sensitive, emotional, and intelligent dogs, constantly testing and in a way mimicking their owners. Not to say that Kelly does not train other dogs (she does) but she had predominantly Tollers in the kennel when I was on site a couple days ago, and they are a very challenging breed to train obediently and behaviorally because of their energy and intelligence. I’m positive this experience helps with training other breeds, especially small dogs and she’s crafted a method for their breed. I also recently met Kelly and from what I understand about her, she embraces the challenge. She studied behavioral science in school among other things and has applied her degree of dedicated knowledge to dog training. And over many years of dog training, she’s nearly perfected her craft while remaining curious and respectful of each dog she trains. For lack of a better comparison, she reminds me of Tiger Woods’ (at the 2008 U.S. Open 72nd hole) last putt - she knows what she’s doing and does it with effortless feel or finesse. For example, I would say “here” or “sit” quite loudly and would often fail to get my dog’s attention. She’ll say these commands among others very lightly almost underneath her breath - and he listens. It’s remarkable. In a little over two weeks with Kelly, he’s a brand new dog who’s much calmer and attentive. I was also having a challenge with walking him but that’s no longer an issue with “heeling.” The list goes on but the point is that it’s a night and day difference after Geronimo Kennels. Cooper will be headed back along with any other dog I have.