POSITIVE PAWS
About us
Carla has had 30 years experience working with pets such as dogs, cats, birds and horses. She has always loved working with people and animals. She has looked for ways to provide positive methods that help to improve the quality of life for humane and canine family members. She provides canine underwater treadmill, TTouch and Reiki balancing and animal communicator.
Business highlights
27 years of experience
Services we offer
Dog training for puppies and adult dogs. Classes, aniexty, house training., private session in your home or our facility. Board and training for puppies and adult dogs. Behavior issues for aggression
Amenities
Free Estimates
Yes
Accepted Payment Methods
- CreditCard
Reviews
4.730 Reviews
| Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 87% | ||
| 3% | ||
| 3% | ||
| 3% | ||
| 3% |
Showing 1-25 of 30 reviews
Penny N.
Oct 2017
Our dog has gone for 2 seasions now and it’s going well. I would recommend.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"We have enjoyed your dog [Pet Name Removed] in class. He has approved a lot in the 2 weeks of class. He will go far. Carla"
Peter B.
May 2017
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Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for the review. We enjoyed having you and Paco in class. Carla"
Kelley B.
Dec 2016
Carla, the owner, recommended puppy training. On our first session, she curtly told me we were in the wrong class. I reminded her she is the one that instructed to attend this class. I paid $155 for sessions. For the first 20 minutes of class, she instructed owners to let the dogs off leash to socialize. My puppy was anxious. The only other thing we did that class was encourage our dogs to come using loads of treats. Second session was more of the same, but this time Carla had us put clothes on our puppies to get them used to wearing cute outfits. Soon thereafter I get a call from Carla recommending I come in for a consultation because my puppy was anxious off leash. What I didn't realize is she charged $150 for about 20 minutes of having her trained dog on a leash and watching my puppy react. She already saw this behavior in the previous two sessions. She said the next step were private sessions which would total $550. So, for two completely useless sessions, I not only paid $155 for the classes but also for the consultation. We feel totally taken advantage of and highly recommend prospective clients to look elsewhere.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"I am sorry to hear that your experience with Positive Paws did not meet your needs. I would have welcomed the feedback directly, as I feel that after a conversation, we could have resolved any concerns. The class you attended was for puppy socialization. The first week the [Member Information Removed] class agenda was as follows: puppy playgroups, questions from clients, discuss dog park safety, teach walk on leash and handing puppies. The second week the [Member Information Removed] the class the agenda was as follows: puppy playgroups, questions from clients, discuss children and dog safety and leaving puppies alone in crate, teach come and dress puppies up in costumes to get them comfortable with handling. In order to ensure that your puppy is a successful and happy puppy I did in fact recommended private sessions. I felt your puppy was too anxious and not learning anything from the class. When I call to discuss this with you I also discussed pricing. In regard to the payment I applied a credit for the classes that were not taken. You paid $155 for 5 classes. I, therefore, applied a credit [Member Information Removed] 93 from the cost unused classes to the consult. During the consultation I had you complete a history form to get a full understanding [Member Information Removed] your puppies anxiety issues. I provided information and handouts on the body language for dogs with anxiety and recommendations on how to reduce the anxiety. I also provided instructions and handouts on how to desensitize your dog so you can continue at your leisure. Treats are used to make the experience positive for your puppy and has been proven to be effective when dealing with an anxious puppy. And many times, I use my dog to assist in this process to help reduce the stress and anxiety [Member Information Removed] for your dog. I strive to work hard with my clients in order to assist both my clients and their dogs. Anxiety is an issue I have helped several clients manage effectively and have done so for many years. I wish you and Dexter all the best and if I can be [Member Information Removed] any help please feel free to contact me. Respectfully Carla"
Hope D.
Sep 2016
I was dealing with an anxious, reactive, and dangerous dog and was looking for help. I've taken her to other trainers, and she has been thru behavior classes, but we got 100% more out of the 5 sessions with Carla Whitaker. I learned more than I thought possible about my dogs personality, abilities, and anxiety. My adorable dog is happier and calmer and so am I. I'm more confident because I was given the skills and knowledge needed to help my dog. Carla was able to explain everything in an easy to understand manner and was patient with both my dog and myself. If there was anything I didn't understand I felt comfortable asking more questions. My neighbors even commented on how much better my dog is behaving! Can't wait to go back to Positive Paws & Carla Whitaker to continue training with my other dogs!
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Hello [Member Name Removed], You and [member name removed]were wonderful for me to work with. I am glad you both are doing well. Thank you for your dedication to [member name removed]. [member name removed] is very lucky to have you. Carla"
Betsy G.
Oct 2015
Angel's anxiety lessened considerably, and her behavior improved as I was given tools with which to assist her. I continue to work on exercises we were taught. I was encouraged to take her group class, and I'm planning to do so. I highly recommend Carla. She is professional and keeps on the latest training aids and techniques. She obviously cares about her clients and makes herself available by phone in-between sessions to answer questions or address any issues.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for being so dedicated to Angel. Give her a hug for me. Carla"
Sandra P.
Sep 2015
unknown
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for the nice review. I enjoyed working with you and Sprout. Carla"
Karen H.
Jul 2015
unknown
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. Carla"
Peter H.
Jun 2015
I have had our new puppy to Carla's puppy club several times this year. I am happy to have found a place where he can be socialized with other dogs in a safe, trusting and friendly environment. I like that he has a chance to be a dog and play with other dogs while receive training at the same time! He comes home tired and happy after every visit!
I have also attended her Life and Social Skills class with my puppy. I have greatly enjoyed working with her and her team! They are all wonderful poeple and really help to put a new puppy owner at ease. The class setting is spacious and comfortable. No matter what the class size was for the week, we never felt crowded or distressed. I was impressed at the efforts they made to ensure that each dog was at ease in their surroundings. I was also amazed at how each puppy took to her instantly with trust and a desire to do a good job. I found her is easy to talk to and available for any questions or concerns regarding my puppy. Her teaching style and demeanor is compassionate, clear, confident, and commanding without being forceful.
In searching for a trainer, I wanted someone who would teach me the basics without being aggressive or overbearing. Carla is a fantastic person to work with! Her knowledge and passion for dogs and her trade is obvious. She is definitely, one of those types of people that I am happy to have found and enthusiastically refer to others. She has a quality of excellence and respect in the work that she does and in her communication with dogs and people alike. If you the opportunity to work with her, you too can discover that the process of training your puppy can be fun, positive and rewarding!
I have also attended her Life and Social Skills class with my puppy. I have greatly enjoyed working with her and her team! They are all wonderful poeple and really help to put a new puppy owner at ease. The class setting is spacious and comfortable. No matter what the class size was for the week, we never felt crowded or distressed. I was impressed at the efforts they made to ensure that each dog was at ease in their surroundings. I was also amazed at how each puppy took to her instantly with trust and a desire to do a good job. I found her is easy to talk to and available for any questions or concerns regarding my puppy. Her teaching style and demeanor is compassionate, clear, confident, and commanding without being forceful.
In searching for a trainer, I wanted someone who would teach me the basics without being aggressive or overbearing. Carla is a fantastic person to work with! Her knowledge and passion for dogs and her trade is obvious. She is definitely, one of those types of people that I am happy to have found and enthusiastically refer to others. She has a quality of excellence and respect in the work that she does and in her communication with dogs and people alike. If you the opportunity to work with her, you too can discover that the process of training your puppy can be fun, positive and rewarding!
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"We have enjoyed having Bodki in dog club. He has learned soo much. He has grown into a wonderful dog. Thank you for all the follow up training you have done at home. Respectfully Carla"
Brad M.
May 2015
unknown
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. Carla"
Megan R.
Apr 2015
unknown
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your continued support for positive training. Your dedication to training and learning makes us smile. Have a wonderful time with your pup!"
Shannon J.
Oct 2014
I brought my pup here for training and could not be happier with the results and things I learned! The trainers here really know their stuff and are very patient and willing to answer all questions - even outside of class hours. The next pup I get will certainly be visiting here for training.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. Malcolm is delightful. We enjoyed watching you make progress with Malcolm in the class."
Jean M.
Oct 2014
It was very good! I took my puppy for their weekly training class that lasted for about eight weeks. Everything was fine.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"We enjoyed having Minnie in the classes. I was pleased to see how devoted your are to helping Minnie learn. You did a great job. thank you and have a wonderful day. Watch Positive Paws Facebook page for new and upcoming classes that will be fun for you and Minnie."
Patricia M.
Oct 2014
It was great. They were very positive and don’t use negative reinforcement. She really tries to figure out what is going on in the dog's head.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for doing such a great job with Tina. She is very sweet girt and lucky to have you. You were a wonderful student and dog parent. You impressed me greatly with your commitment to want to help Tina. I look forward to seeing her learn and grow as you move forward."
Marianne G.
Mar 2014
Carla is the best at POSITIVE dog training.
I have attended her Puppy Manners class and Life Skills class and plan on attending more.
She has enough help for her classes and always offers individual attention. She is engaging and knowledgable and makes classes fun for you and your dog.
I have attended her Puppy Manners class and Life Skills class and plan on attending more.
She has enough help for her classes and always offers individual attention. She is engaging and knowledgable and makes classes fun for you and your dog.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank You for your support for Positive Paws. We enjoyed having you and Zeke in class. He is a wonderful Shiloh Shepherd. I would love to see you both again . We will be doing some new fun classes like Agility for fun . I will keep you posted"
Kristina C.
Mar 2014
I met Carla, the owner, at a class she taught at the Warren County Humane Society. I found her website very thorough and set up by email and then by phone a 1-on-1 session. She evaluated my dog at her facility, quickly identified problem behaviors, had me work with her and my dog on "fixes" and gave me written handouts personalized for my practice at home.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Hello, Thank you for your kind words. I enjoyed meeting Ben and helping him. Ben is a wonderful Cocker Spaniel. Give Ben and Candy a hug from us."
Jean M.
Feb 2014
It was very good dog training. They taught me how to train my dog from a caring and positive perspective. People comment on how well behaved my dog is. I recommend them and I would use them again.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. I am glad to heat Minnie is doing well. She is very lucky to have a wonderful owner. Carla"
Alicia R.
Feb 2014
It was good. I learned a lot. We took what we learned and practiced at home.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"I enjoyed working with [member name removed]. You are wonderful to help her with her issues. Best wishes for your new baby!"
Cheryl J.
Feb 2014
They are outstanding because of their experience and knowledge of dog’s behavior. It’s a quality service and you pay a little more for it.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. I love to have Bj and Heidi stay with me. I like to see Bj play with Kamera. Heidi grows every time she stays with me. You have done a wonderful job with them. Give them a big hug."
Betty M.
Jan 2014
They are excellent. Carla is Ohio's female version of Cesar Millan. She handled Calli extremely well. One of the most important things to me is she gave me excellent, effective techniques for potty training. They were accommodating with scheduling and we took part in 1 on 1 training as well as group training. We purchased a package. Calli just turned 1 and I intend to use their services again for more intensive training.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"We sure did enjoy having you and Calli in class. Please stop in to see us when you are in the ares. Hugs to Calli!"
Judith B.
Jan 2014
After we adopted Amber, Board & Train was a necessity considering her HIGH energy level. We have had 2 dogs at one time in our home for over 50 years. Amber was a challenge that Carla handled with dedication & professionalism .She was difficult but we were all determined to give her a forever home. Carla provided the skills and guidance needed. Here we are, 2 years later, with a 90# girl that plays very well at day care and loves her 90#, 6 year old, Golden Retriever brother. Training has paid off and we continue to use the guidance constantly. Carla responds to inquiries in very timely manner.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"I am glad Amber is doing well. I love that she can play with other dogs. Give her a hug for me."
Julie R.
Jan 2014
.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Hello, I am glad to here from you. You did a great job helping [Member info removed] with her anxiety. Give her a hug for me."
Mary M.
Nov 2013
The trainers are excellent. We have had both individual sessions and group sessions for our standard poodle from the age of 6 months to 1 year. We will go back for more advanced training.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Thank you for your kind words. We would love to see you and Henry again. We are doing agility for fun that might me down Henrys alley."
Kelly R.
Aug 2013
We were disappointed with the classes. We were hoping to teach our dog to walk on a leash and learn commands like "leave it" and stay, , but the classes didn't help. We wish we would have saved our money and invested in some one-on-one training with someone else. Would not recommend group classes here.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Positive Paws records indicate the client started classes on Jan 12, 2013. The first session of the class items covered were “Settle” “Come” “Hello” “Look” The second week 1-19-2013 was first session of loose leash walking. After that session the client did not come back to class. 1-28-2013 Positive Paws called left message, “We are checking in to make sure all is well. Please call if have any questions or concerns.” 2-16-2013 Positive Paws called to see if every thing ok. We were informed that the client was sick and would be coming back after feeling better. I have not heard from any one since this phone call. [removed member name], we would love to help you with Oliver. We do offer private sessions if you are more comfortable with private sessions. Please call so we can arrange those sessions for you. Respectfully Positive Paws"
Cheryl J.
Jan 2013
In 2009 I resqued a feral dog who was one year old and had survived on her own in the woods. She was inherently fearful of all people and animals because all were potential threats. I first took her to my vet for professional advice. My vet referred me to Carla Whitaker. Carla trained me to train my dog. Recently I was visiting my vet who called my dog a miracle and said she never believed she would be able to give my dog a kiss which she had just done. Heidi has learned to cope and to be a happy dog. My dog and I continue to learn thanks to Carla.
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"[member name removed], Thank you for your kind words. Your dogs are very lucky to have you as a dog parent. I commend you for all your patience and love you have given them. I enjoyed teaching you."
Jennifer L.
Jan 2013
We were going on vacation for 2 weeks and I didn't want to leave our 6 month old puppy at just a kennel. I researched and found Positive Paw and Carla who boarded and trained our little Cletus while we were gone. She worked on his puppy behavior issues which was a great thing. He is very improved. Also he was able to socialize with her dogs. We are going to start going to the training class starting this week. Totally a positive experience at Positive Paws!
Response from POSITIVE PAWS
"Hello [member name removed], I enjoyed having Cletus stay with me during your vacation. He was a wonderful in my home and did well with the puppy training. He loved playing with Kamarea and was tied at the end of the day. He would make me laugh because he would lay down on his own to see if I would give him a treat. Such a smart boy!"
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FAQ
POSITIVE PAWS is currently rated 4.7 overall out of 5.
POSITIVE PAWS accepts the following forms of payment: CreditCard
Yes, POSITIVE PAWS offers free project estimates.
No, POSITIVE PAWS does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, POSITIVE PAWS does not offer a senior discount.
No, POSITIVE PAWS does not offer emergency services.
No, POSITIVE PAWS does not offer warranties.