Testimonials from Clients and Pet Professionals
"Paul Owens is hands-down the best trainer I've ever worked with!" Jeff Probst, Host of TV's Survivor
"Owens' nonviolent process will
help prevent dogs from developing
various behavioral and
psychological problems, which
can be difficult to treat later in
life." - Dr. Michael W. Fox, Senior Scholar, Bioethics, The Humane Society of the United States, Washington, DC
"A truly enlightened approach to
raising and training your dog" - Jack Canfield, Founder and CEO, Chicken Soup for the Soul Enterprises, Inc.
"Paul's bestselling book, The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate, Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training, deserves a place of honor on the shelf of every positive dog owner and trainer." - Review from The Whole Dog Journal, July 2000.
"A wonderful program for dogs and humans alike. I recommend it without reservation!” Mary Rizzolo, DVM
“In the name of countless animals, thank you for your vision and optimism.” Brian Forsgren, DVM
“Paul’s teaching methods adapt to working with schools, veterinarians, pet owners, and animals, creating order out of seemingly uncontrollable situations.” Nancy Disbro, DVM
"This is basically a "perfect book"....with this knowledge there should be many more well-adjusted canine companions and far fewer dogs being relinquished to shelters. This book is an admirable accomplishment." From a review of The Puppy Whisperer in The APDT Chronicle of the Dog, the publication for professional dog trainers (www.apdt.com), Nov/Dec 2008 issue.
"I teach puppy and CGC classes at my local German Shepherd Obedience Club and your methods of training are part of my foundation. Thank you so much for being the "Original" Dog Whisperer." –Arlene Moody
"I will never forget your advice and all the knowledge from your books and DVD's." Catherine Denreyer
"I just wanted to send you a line of thanks for your phenomenal book, The Puppy Whisperer. I live in Florence, Italy, and while I was waiting for our newly born English cocker spaniel puppy to grow old enough to come home with us, I ordered six puppy training books and had them shipped here from the states. I am very happy to tell you that The Puppy Whisperer is my favorite of the bunch. I remain incredibly impressed by your attitudes and positive approaches to puppy training, and I'm even happier to tell you that their combination has helped me and my little puppy in so many ways." Linnea Wexler
Other Testimonals
From a letter dated November 1, 1999
I am writing to you in regards to the Raise with Praise program that you brought to us over the summer of 1999. First of all I want to thank you for providing such a fantastic opportunity for the children of Northeast Los Angeles. The group of young boys and girls that learned non-violent methods of obedience training for dogs benefited in many ways. The students learned valuable safety techniques when dealing with stray dogs. They also learned about animal care in general and in particular how to care for and love a dog. The relationships that each child developed with the dogs that otherwise may have been put to death showed that children could learn compassion from role models. A significant aspect of the Raise with Praise program was that each child was taught a method of working with an animal that focused on valuing the animal as a being, and not hurting the animal into submission. Hopefully this mentality and these same techniques could transfer over into their peer interaction as effective conflict resolution skills.
I could say a great deal about the program’s overall effectiveness in the way it is planned and brought together. Paul Owens, the assistants that he worked with, and the special guest speakers he brought in were well organized and very professional. Their commitment to the animals and the children was evident. However, the most significant effect of the program was the pride that each child had during the graduation ceremony when they had the opportunity to display their skills before community members and their own parents. We at Hathaway Family Resource Center would love to have the opportunity to bring the Raise with Praise program back to work with another group of children here in Northeast Los Angeles.
Sincerely, J.B. Sloanm Youth Programs Coordinator, Hathaway Family Resource Center, 840 N. Ave. 66, Los Angeles, CA 90042
From a letter in 1999
This is to describe our delight with Paul Owens and his Raise with Praise program (Paws for Peace). The students received instruction from a knowledgeable and loving expert. Paul provided valuable information, as well as modeled appropriate techniques. He made sure the dogs were safe and always came prepared with curriculum and materials. Paul was wonderful with the children, demonstrating patience and a talent for communication.
We greatly support Paul’s “clicker” approach to training animals, as opposed to the “choke chain” method. It is our belief that learning to work with animals in nonviolent ways transfers to the development of healthy relationships with humans.
It is my pleasure to recommend this program. Sincerely, Carolina Goodman, Principal, The Country School, North Hollywood, California.
Teachers Say:
“I feel the students walked away with the knowledge of dealing with stress and how to handle situations without violence. I liked the interaction and involvement with the students.” Ellen Walsh 3rd Grade Teacher
“It really brought into focus the importance of nonviolence.” Sally Falkman, 4th Grade Teacher
“I liked the fact students were taught ‘nonviolence works.’ The material was very accessible. This was an excellent program.” Joan Bania, 5th Grade Teacher
Children say:
“Nonviolence means not to be mean or disrespectful to anything like dogs or people. It also means to be nice and kind, like telling (complimenting) my sister when she does something good.” Kim, 3rd grade student
“We learned to not make dogs do what they can’t do. Nonviolence means to help others when they need help.” John, 4th grade student
“I used my breathing last night when I was scared and it helped calm me down.” Brittney, 5th grade student
“I really liked this program because I love dogs and I’m happy I helped save (Rusty’s) his life." Tara, 5th grade student