SUCCESS STORIES
Your satisfaction fuels my passion, and every wagging tail proves it – Thank you for the 5-star love!
I ADOPTED MY DOG WITHOUT KNOWING MUCH ABOUT HER BACKGROUND—JUST THAT SHE’D NEED MORE TRAINING. I DIDN’T REALIZE HOW MUCH MORE. I WAS STRUGGLING ON MY OWN, BUT THE ELEVATE PROGRAM GAVE ME A STARTING POINT, AND FROM THERE, EVERYTHING BEGAN TO SHIFT.
Now, I feel so much more prepared. I’m learning how to teach her new skills and understand her behavior in a way I didn’t before. Even things like holding the leash properly and managing the chaos at the front door feel more doable now.
What stood out most was how supported I felt. Val was with us every step of the way. From our very first Zoom meeting, I knew I wanted her involved. She has such a deep understanding of the canine mind—and helps you meet your dog where they are, with respect and clarity.
It never felt like I was just commanding my dog. It felt like we were both learning, together.
Thank you, Val. You truly have a gift, and we’re so grateful to have had you as part of our journey.”
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Sandra B. & Little
I WAS DEALING WITH REACTIVITY, DEMAND BARKING, AND DIFFICULTY WITH LISTENING TO COMMANDS.
I had tried training with my cattle dog before and didn’t find it helpful, so I was skeptical — but Val proved how effective the correct training can be.
The program felt very catered to my needs. I cannot say enough praise for Val and the work she does. She has made a huge difference in my dog’s behavior and was very flexible to my needs.
In just a few weeks, Val gave me so many tools to tackle reactivity and combat behaviors I wanted to change. I feel a huge sense of pride for my dog. He listens better and is much less reactive. Training was the best thing I could have done — I’m so much more comfortable bringing him out in public and having people over.
I definitely have a better understanding of my dog now. I never realized how much I needed to challenge a cattle dog to prevent boredom. Val showed me how intelligent and quick to learn Angus is. I just didn’t realize it until she highlighted that with her training.
There was nothing more Val could have done to support me. She was very responsive over text and never made me feel silly for any questions I asked. She makes you feel very comfortable from the first interaction all the way through training.
I could not have asked for a better training experience. Her knowledge of cattle dogs and her approach to training is incredible. I highly recommend Val to anyone considering training their dog.
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Jessica F. & Angus
BEFORE STARTING THE SUMMIT PROGRAM, FLOSSIE WAS JUST 8 WEEKS OLD AND DOING ALL THE TYPICAL PUPPY THINGS — CHEWING, JUMPING, PULLING.
All of our previous dogs came to us older and already had some training, so we really wanted to make sure we got it right this time. And Val did just that.The program felt like a journey where you’re never alone. Val helped us set realistic expectations, encouraged us when we doubted ourselves, and guided us to be more confident — and in return, Flossie became more confident too and really responded to the training.Now, I feel confident walking her. She plays with other dogs, and I’m even told the shy dogs seem to gravitate toward her! We’re more comfortable doing so many things now — having people over, walking in public spaces, and even enjoying quiet time together on the couch.Val breaks things down in a way that’s easy to understand and gives clear instructions so you can practice at home. I really feel like Flossie understands what we’re asking her to do — she listens so well, and she’s so smart.Val was our biggest cheerleader throughout the whole journey. She was not only amazing with Flossie, but also incredibly patient and kind with us. She knew exactly when to boost our confidence — even when we didn’t know we needed it.If you’re thinking about training, I can’t recommend Val enough. You’ll feel supported every step of the way.
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Jenn R. & Flossie
BEFORE TRAINING WITH VAL, OUR GOLDEN RETRIEVER RIO STRUGGLED WITH LEASH WALKING, RECALL, AND JUMPING, WHICH MADE OUTINGS STRESSFUL.
After the Summit Program with Val which included private lessons and board and train days, we saw a huge improvement in Rio. Val’s instructions were easy to follow, and she was incredibly accommodating to our schedule. Her way with Rio was amazing and made the process smooth for all of us.
We now feel much more confident handling Rio, even if issues pop up, because we have a solid plan from Val’s training. We've also learned to recognize Rio’s cues better, which helps us support him when he needs more time to work on things.
Rio’s recall is so much better now, which is important since we love walking him on trails. Val even came on a trail walk with us to address real-life situations and challenges. Her dedication and connection with dogs and owners is truly exceptional.
We couldn’t recommend Val highly enough—she made a real difference for us and Rio."
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Mark, Amanda R. & Rio
I CAN'T RECOMMEND VAL ENOUGH. THE ENTIRE TRAINING PROCESS WAS NOT JUST HELPFUL FOR OLIVER- IT WAS CRUCIAL FOR US TOO. THE SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT WE RECEIVED THROUGHOUT WERE EXACTLY WHAT WE NEEDED. "
Before starting the Elevate program, my biggest struggles with Oliver were his reactivity outdoors, constant barking at noises outside, and overly enthusiastic greetings whenever visitors arrived. It was challenging to manage his energy and behavior, especially in these situations.
The training process with Val felt incredibly supportive from the start. Val really understood the issues we were facing and the challenges that came with them. The guidance provided made everything clearer, and I now feel much more confident in handling any training issues that come up. Oliver has become much more responsive, not just to me but to others as well. It's like he's more aware of his behavior and knows how to respond better in different situations.
Now, I feel so much more at ease with Oliver, especially when it comes to having him around extended family. They also feel more confident walking him and dealing with his barking and reactivity, which is a huge relief for me.
I can't recommend Val enough. The entire training process was not just helpful for Oliver—it was crucial for us too. The support and encouragement we received throughout were exactly what we needed. If you're facing similar challenges with your dog, this training was life changing!"
Joe Sudbay & Oliver
I CAN NOW TAKE JONIE TO NEW PLACES LIKE BREWERIES & DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS- THINGS THAT FELT CHALLEGING BEFORE. I AM MUCH MORE CONFIDENT KNOWING HOW TO HANDLE ANY TRAINING ISSUES, AND CONTINUE TO PROGRESS AT OFF LEASH RECALL
Before starting Val’s Bootstraps training program, I struggled with recall and getting my dog, Joni, to calm down while I worked from home. Val was incredibly friendly and collaborative throughout the process, making everything feel approachable and effective. During our first session, she introduced simple exercises to help Joni relax, which made a world of difference. Unlike other training classes where I felt overwhelmed by too many commands, Val’s approach was straightforward and easy to follow—for both me and Joni.
Thanks to Val’s guidance, I now have practical strategies to handle any training issues that come up. She not only trains the dog but also teaches owners how to work with their dogs effectively, without ever being condescending. These techniques have given me confidence and will continue to benefit both of us.
Since training, I feel so much calmer working from home, knowing Joni can settle down more easily. If she doesn’t calm down immediately, I now have tools to help her. I’m also much more confident in her recall, which we continue to make progress on.
I can now work in the same room as Joni for longer periods and take her to new places like breweries and dog-friendly restaurants—things that felt challenging before. Val supported us every step of the way, always meeting me where I was and answering my questions.
Not only does Val have an incredible understanding of dogs, but she also deeply understands humans. She’s an expert at fostering deeper connections between owners and their dogs, which has made our bond even stronger. I couldn’t recommend her training enough!
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Emma Z. & Joni
I NOW FEEL MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE HANDLING CADY FOR MANAGEABLE, CALM NEIGHBORHOOD WALKS
"Before starting the Summit Program, I struggled with my dog Cady pulling on walks, jumping on strangers and friends, chewing on furniture, and not obeying commands. The weekly visits from Val were fantastic and provided the regularity and continuity needed to develop basic training skills. Cady loved seeing Val and responded very well to her. I now feel much more comfortable handling Cady, especially with the techniques I learned for manageable neighborhood walks. I have a much better understanding of Cady and her needs. Val is an excellent trainer and a wonderful person, and I appreciate all the progress we've made together."
-Meryl L. & Cady
WE CAN WALK ALL AROUND PORTLAND WITH JUST A COLLAR OR HARNESS- NO MORE LUNGING, JUMPING, OR BARKING!
We signed up for the Summit program, and it was a game-changer for us! Before training, we struggled with Luna's barking and jumping when greeting guests, leash reactivity, and general anxiety that made it hard for her to settle down. I was nervous to start because I felt embarrassed about needing help, but Val immediately made me feel comfortable. She was so patient and kind, and never once made us feel judged.
The training sessions became something Luna and I both looked forward to. Now, I feel much more confident in handling any issues that come up, especially after our recent move to a new environment. Walking Luna used to be stressful due to her reactivity, but thanks to Val, it's now an enjoyable experience. We can walk all around Portland with just a collar or harness—no more lunging, jumping, or barking!
Val also helped me understand Luna's emotions better, which has been so helpful in reducing her triggers. I felt supported every step of the way, and I'm so grateful for the positive changes we've made together.
Thank you, Val!"
– Sarah and Luna
THANKS TO VAL'S GUIDANCE, I'M COMFORTABLE HAVING PEOPLE OVER WHICH WAS SOMETHING I DREADED BEFORE
"Before joining the Summit Program, I struggled a lot with Ava's reactivity to other dogs and people entering our house. I was worried we wouldn't be able to manage it effectively. However, the training process with Val was fantastic. She listened to my concerns and provided easy-to-follow training scenarios that made a big difference for us.
Now, I feel much more confident in handling Ava when training issues come up. I understand that her proximity to triggers is crucial, and by gradually working to close that gap, she's become far less reactive. The biggest improvement has been in leash walking and welcoming people into our home—Ava no longer barks and gives our guests the space they need.
Thanks to Val's guidance, I’m comfortable having people over, which was something I dreaded before. Throughout the entire journey, Val was incredibly supportive, always responsive to any questions, flexible with scheduling, and made sure we were at ease with each new training step. She was wonderful, and the program was great! I'll definitely reach out to Val again if we ever need more training assistance.
-Brianna, Corey & Ava
NOW I FEEL CONFIDENT TAKING MY DOG PLACES WITHOUT WORRYING ABOUT AGGRESSION
"I signed up for the Summit program offered by Val, and it was the best decision I could have made for my aggressive dog who used to try to bite people. Initially, I was scared for the trainer, but Val was amazing with my dog from the start, and he quickly began looking forward to seeing her every week. She helped me realize that my nervous energy was affecting him, and through her guidance, I learned how to handle difficult situations and take him to public places without fear. Now, I feel confident taking my dog places without worrying about aggression, as I can read his body language and avoid triggers. I even have a dog walker come twice a week without me being home, which I never thought possible. Throughout the training journey, I felt incredibly supported and learned so much about dog behavior. I highly recommend Val. She is full of knowledge and incredibly patient. She loves your dog like her own and really gets to the root of the problem. She is truly training you on how to read your dog. This was the best thing I could have done for him, and I’m forever grateful to her."
-Tiffany & Beans
ON TRACK IN A MUCH SHORTER PERIOD OF TIME THAN I COULD
HAVE IMAGINED!
I am so happy to have found Val! My dog Rigby was very reactive and becoming less and less social with other dogs. Val’s approach was perfect for Rigby, as she really seeks to understand the individual dog and what works for them. I chose the board and train program to establish a good foundation for Rigby in a relatively short period of time. I was initially reluctant to send her away but she had the time of her life and learned a lot! Val sent updates every day and kept me informed of her progress. Val also spent a lot of time with me after the training to help me learn how to work with my dog on my own. This will be an on-going process but I feel comfortable with the plan, and well equipped to continue her training at home. I feel that although there is still work to be done, Val was able to really get Rigby on the right road in a much shorter period of time than I could have imagined! Now Rigby seems happier, less reactive, and overall more relaxed. Rigby was so excited to see Val when she came for a recent training session. Val clearly really cares about the dogs and it shows! I would recommend her in a heartbeat. - Erika de Papp DVM & Rigby
THE RIGHT PERSON FOR MY DOG HIRAM
Hiram has struggled with leash aggression since we got him 5 years ago. We've gone through countless training, day schools, and various tools. We knew insecurity was at the root of Hiram's aggression and Val was able to adapt perfectly to speak to his psyche. Hiram was part of Val's "Board and Train" program where he stayed with her for a month but came home on weekends. Val spent time with us each weekend going over what she did with Hiram during the previous week and gave us the tools and instruction to work on similar things while he was home. We were most impressed with Val's usage of the "Grade School" model where she did not hold Hiram to expectations he was not equipped to achieve yet. She did a fantastic job teaching us to do the same! Hiram is now a part of her Dog Camp where he gets to spend time with her and his friends getting all of his energy out. She's made herself super available to answer any questions we have and cares so much to see Hiram continue to grow and succeed. Thank you Val!"
- Jordan, Sheila, & Hiram
I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH ABOUT MY DOG'S EMOTIONAL STATES
"Thank you Val for helping transition our 4 1/2 year old Vizsla, with anxiety and guarding issues, with the addition of 2 new puppies into our household (one ours and one our son’s). The three months of weekly in-home sessions gave me so many training techniques to add to my toolbox. I use the Intermediary bridge frequently when I see my Vizsla worried or bothered by something or a situation (like a puppy trying to lick her face). Having Val accessible in between sessions was invaluable as well as our weekly discussions about how the week went. Whenever I had an “instance” or new situation, she would advise me on how to handle it the next time. The weekly summary emails were a wealth of information that I could (and still do) refer back to. When I reached out to Val, the food guarding (and guarding in general) was my main concern. She helped us navigate through a lot of the guarding issues while not being focused solely on that issue. She was right, a lot of the guarding tendencies (with toys and beds)fell away through the relaxation techniques. As far as the food guarding, we established different routines in the kitchen (no dogs allowed behind island) and feeding time (dogs are fed in their crates) to relieve the tension that food creates for her. I am able to have all 3 of them in front of me doing “tricks” side by side and getting treats side by side. I never thought that would be possible.I knew during my phone consultation with Val that she was a trainer that I wanted to work with. I related to her positive, fun approach. From week to week she builds on the prior weeks’ progress. I never had a problem incorporating the “training” into each day to practice what we learned. It was funfor me and it was honestly fun for the pups. I have learned so much about the emotional state of my dog(s) and how to read their body language." - Jocelyn, & Teeka, Juice, & Sydney
WE TRIED OTHER TRAINING...
"Val is the best! Our rescue Cattle Dog Zuzu struggles with meeting new people and is generally just very high strung in most situations. We tried obedience classes, all-positive trainers, heavily correctional trainers, and did lot's of our own research but nothing was working for us. Val's training method aims to get to the root of your dog's behavioral problems so you don't need a different trick for every situation. With past training we would leave a session feeling overwhelmed and confused but Val's program takes things slow so you can really learn the process and come to understand your pup. I used to think we would never be able to have people over or the Zuzu would be able to be around children or larger groups of people. If you stay consistent and put the work in you will definitely see results and feel supported along the way. Everyday is a work in progress but we now have the tools to feel more comfortable introducing Zuzu to strangers and having guests at our house. It's such a relief to know how to read our dogs' behaviors and respond accordingly." - Alaena & Zuzu Limington, ME
HELPED US ACQUIRE THE TOOLS TO BUILD A GREAT RELATIONSHIP
Val did a great job with our Golden Retriever puppy Nala! She started a 4 week board and train at just over 6 months old and she is now 10 months old and she is doing great. She helped us build the foundation for training her we didn’t have the experience with and helped Nala and us both acquire the tools to build a great relationship. Val picks them up at the beginning of the week and drops her off at the end for the the weekend! This was huge for us as it helped us with the flow of the work week and each Friday we would go over for an hour what she learned during the week and how we apply it to training. Her obedience is coming along she will sit, wait, down, come, fetch, and maybe some others I am missing but her confidence is growing! Training has helped us get to a point where we can walk off leash with her and feel confident she will stay close and heel when necessary which besides having good obedience was one of my top things to get out of this training. We are very happy we chose Val as Nala’s and our trainer! - Ryan B. & Nala
"I CAN NOW READ MY DOGS"
"I adopted two sibling puppies and within a few months they started fighting,mostly over toys and food.Their fighting got so bad,they had to be separated in different rooms. I wasn't sure what to do,having never experienced this before,everything I read said hire a trainer or rehome one of the dogs. After researching trainers and programs,I decided to try behavioral training to see if it would help their sibling rivalry.
Venture Doggie's training program was the perfect fit for us, the positive behavior training was just what I was looking for.It helped me to understand my dogs, how they were feeling and why they were behaving the way they were. The program was easy to follow and my dogs quickly took to the rewarding,so it was easy to keep their attention during training. I was able to practice the training with my dogs throughout the day with mini training sessions and they responded well to that. It was so convenient not to have to take them somewhere and they could learn in their own environment! I'm so happy to say that now my dogs are doing great!I can read their body language to know how they are feeling.They no longer have to be separated and can play outside together. Val has changed our lives with this program and I highly recommend it! Thank you so much Val" - Jill R., Axel & Zeke
EXTREMELY EFFECTIVE, KNOWLEDGEABLE, & COMPASSIONATE
"We adopted our 2 year old dog named Pork Chop and realized quickly that he constantly wanted attention; loved other dogs, but did not realize they were giving him clues to back off and stop playing so hard- he wanted to be best friends with every person he met, but approached too happily and excited and did not understand how to do an appropriate greeting without jumping. We were having no luck in how to get him to approach other people and dogs less excitedly and his constant need for affection had escalated from barking and he was getting more aggressive in nudging for attention. When we walked him on the leash, he would pull very hard to try to meet any dog or person he saw. Val's 4 week board and train program did wonders for both Pork Chop and us! This well-designed program had Pork Chop stay with Val during the week for his weekday training and then come home for the weekends. As a result we didn't miss him as much, and when he came home on Fridays, Val took time to train us too in what he had learned that week. She also gave us stuff to work on with him on over the weekend to train us all. Each week we could see noticeable changes in Pork Chop's behavior and happiness and in turn, our sanity. Not only was the training working really well, but Pork Chop loved going back to Val. When Sunday night came around he couldn't wait to jump in her car to leave us! Now, Pork Chop is a much better behaved dog. He is able to self-soothe himself and doesn't constantly need attention. He is much calmer when meeting new people and dogs and we continue to improve. He no longer pulls on the leash to try to meet new people, and is calm on the leash when dogs are around. Val also taught him how to recall and heel off-leash. Val is extremely effective, knowledgeable, and compassionate. It is amazing the amount of impact and training she instilled in Pork Chop in such a short time. The additional helpful documents, videos, and email support Val has provided during and after the training really help to continue with his and our training. We still refer back to these resources for support. With the intensive boarding and train and E-collar training, we were worried that our Pork Chop would lose his personality, but not at all. He is still our happy, loving, goofy Pork Chop. Now we are all happier because he can self-soothe himself and more appropriately express when he wants attention. We can also walk him without him pulling at every new dog or person he sees." Thanks Val! - Paul and Deb, & Porkchop
WONDERFUL TEACHER
"The first time I used Venture Doggie was when my North American Chocolate Labrador, Buddy, was two years old. I was going to be traveling for an extended amount of time and was looking for someone who would keep him stimulated, up to date on his commands and teach him new skills. Val, Lewen and her Venture Doggie pack taught my dog things I never knew I was missing out on. Buddy came back knowing how to walk in a pack, sit and lay down in a full stay all while paying attention to me, waiting for his next command. Buddy is now four years old and has been back to Venture Doggie to brush up on his skills and to learn specific behavioral tactics that I need him to integrate into his every day.Val has also been a wonderful teacher to me, so I can keep up with Buddy’s skills and continue with our daily work. It is so reassuring to know how to handle my dog and feel confident in our skills as a team. Buddy and I are always continuing our growth. Buddy will be returning to Venture Doggie soon for a full lesson on recall training!" Woofs and Hugs,​ - Maggie G. & Buddy
Darian, CT
AMAZING EXPERIENCE
Val is AMAZING!! I was referred by a coworker and I have a 5 year old lab mix and about a year old Great Dane. I saw a huge difference in both my dogs when Val started working with them on leash walking. My puppy, Emmy has improved so much and it’s all thanks to Val. She always sends me training updates about the girls. She truly loves dogs and loves her work. I would 100% recommend Val to anyone! - Belle, Emmy & Ruby Baldwin, ME
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HIGHLY RECOMMEND
"I was looking for a better alternative to doggie daycare for my 3 yr old Cattle Dog and came across Venture Doggie. Sure glad I did! Valerie is knowledgeable, personable, and definitely cares for my girl. Muncie comes home exhausted and happy from her hike at day camp, and listens well after the training she is receiving in Valerie's care. Not to mention it takes very little effort from me because Valerie comes right to my home! I highly recommend Valerie and Venture Doggie!" - Lauren & Muncie
Standish, ME and Darian, CT
SO THANKFUL!
I am so thankful to have found Val! She started walking my dog Winnie when she was just a puppy which led to camp when Winnie was older. Val isn’t “just” a dog walker. She’s a dog enthusiast who teaches while she has the dogs in her care. She’s helped me along the way to be a more confident dog mom too. Winnie loves the time she spends with Val.​ - Sarah & Winnie
Standish, ME
AMAZING CONNECTION WITH ANIMALS
"Val has an amazing connection with animals. Seeing the difference in my very excitable golden when she calmly takes him out the door was more than enough for me but then I saw my water averse chihuahua mix voluntarily went in the water?! Incredible! They are tired and happy when they come back from camp and I am happy they had a good time! Val is amazing and trustworthy and we are excited to go to camp every week!" - Anna, Ben & Luna Portland, ME
WE FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
"We worked with Val to help reduce our dog's anxiety and help him learn to relax. The car was our main concern, but she helped us identify other places he was getting anxious, and start with small steps to build up to working in the car. He is now doing much better at relaxing and remaining calm, and we feel more confident in curbing his anxiety before he gets worked up. Val was great to work with, and Koda loved her - we highly recommend her!" - Spencer& Koda
Portland, ME
I WISH I SKIPPED EVERYTHING ELSE & WENT STRAIGHT TO VAL!
We couldn’t be happier with our experience with venture doggie! As Eloise got bigger she got more difficult to walk and her puppy behavior got harder to handle, at her puppy training class someone recommended Val to us and I am sooo happy they did! Eloise is now a dream to walk and it’s all thanks to Val she is such a natural and has the magic touch! Since getting Eloise in December last year we’ve had a dog walker, doggie daycare, and puppy training classes and I have to say I wish I skipped all those and went straight to venture doggie, she has a lot of experience and knowledge and Eloise is so much happier and so are we! - Emily & Eloise Standish, ME
BEFORE TRAINING, MY BIGGEST STRUGGLES WERE MY DOG GETTING OVERLY EXCITED WHEN SEEING OTHER DOGS, NOT FOLLOWING THROUGH ON BASIC COMMANDS, AND JUMPING.
Working with Val was so comfortable because she’s amazing and easygoing. She had answers and demonstrations for everything we needed — it made the whole process feel relaxed but super effective.
Now I feel much more confident and comfortable with my dog. I know what to do in certain situations and how to help my dog through them without stress.
One of the biggest wins happened on a trail walk — we saw two other dogs coming, and instead of dragging me like a freight train, my dog came right back to me and waited calmly while they passed. That’s huge, especially for a young Great Dane who is giant and strong enough to knock someone down and literally drag me wherever he wants if he’s not listening.
I feel more comfortable walking him in the neighborhood now, and I definitely understand him better. Val was just the best — so kind, so genuine. She truly wanted what was best for our family, and that meant everything to us.”
Thank you for making my dreams come true every day! Your glowing reviews inspire me to keep delivering top-notch training for you and your furry friends.
Stay updated, check out the latest testimonials, and experience the difference. Contact me now to book a free consultation and see why we’re the best in the business!