Pawsitively Fun Dog Training Students

Welcome to our students page! Here you can meet some of the dogs in training & the people that love them! Anyone interested can join our student email group by clicking HERE and following the instructions for subscribing!

Welcome Suki, Linda Purkey's Pug

What can I say? I have a pug in agility! Rachel's professional training skills have given pugs in agility a new look on life. We are advancing to upper levels of success through positive and fun classes and seminars with Rachel. Her attitude and training methods are so uplifting that the Suki-Meister has become so confident and motivated that he is having a blast running a course with either Rachel or another student handler that keeps them challenged and on their toes for a fun and challenging adventure! Soon Rachel will have another one of my pugs, Anne, to experience the thrill and satisfaction of yet another great success! Visit our website at www.greengablespugs.com

Introducing Cody, Debbie Joslin's Basenji

 When I decided to enroll in agility classes with my first Basenji there was some skepticism on whether it was an exercise in futility. After all, Basenji’s are not like Border Collies who live to please their Masters. Don’t get me wrong, this breed is Very intelligent, but stubborn. Astrologically speaking, if the sun, moon and stars are in the proper alignment, and it suits the little Darling, we are good to go. If, however, a Basenji is not in the mood to run a course, he/she Will Not be coaxed.  Luckily there are people like Rachel who believe any breed, with the proper training and motivation, can participate in this performance sport. Rachel’s class is so upbeat and motivational, that even a Basenji can excel. When issues come up, like running under instead of through the tire,Rachel has suggestions to overcome the problem. Additionally, Rachel has made me a much better handler, a very important facet of the sport in that 99% of the time it is the Human’s fault if the dog errors. Her classes really hone in on handler techniques that fit you and your dog specifically. I look forward to continuing my training with Rachel as Cody and I move into the Master Level of Competition and I continue to train Ms. Little Lazy Girl Basenji – Karly.

Meet Molly, Cheryl Domato's American Eskimo

I have had dogs my entire life and have been through various levels of obedience training throughout the years. I met Rachel Flatley, of Pawsitively Fun Dog Training Group, about 2 years ago when I got involved with dog agility training. This has been one of the most personally rewarding experiences I have had as it offers both hard work and relaxation all in one. Best of all, it provides an avenue of incredible bonding between the dogs and myself. Rachel offers high-energy classes where results come naturally with her common sense approach to training. When you come to class be ready to dedicate yourself as once you start, you're hooked!!!

Meet "Woody" and Jake, Susan DeMar's Shelties

Jake Got the Blues, OAJ, NA
Elwood Blues II, OA, OAJ, TN-N
Jake and Elwood (aka Woody), The Blues Brothers from Phoenix, have been training in agility since 1999. We didn't achieve any titles until we moved to Florida in 2003 and started getting some great training. I chose Pawsitively Fun Dog Training initially because it was close to my home, but after going to a class I realized that this was going to be a great experience. In fact, I have learned a brand new skill – blind crosses. Rachel is able to read each dog individually and tailor the exercise to fit. Each class provides a new challenge for us, and more importantly, we have a great time. The training is top-notch, the training area is extremely nice, and the company is even better. After all, it's Pawsitively Fun Training!

Introducing Dax, Linda Neals's Australian Shepard

I find Rachel's classes to be geared towards the handler. Yes the dog needs to be trained, but the real challenge is the handler. When I learn to front cross, rear cross or use a reverse flow pivot at the most opportune time, my dog has a better idea where I'm going and what is next. There is less confusion and off courses. Her classes give everyone time to work on their weakness and at the same time learn something new. Rachel has a lot of different ideas about how to fix problems which you need in order to find the one that works for you and your dog. With my new Border Collie, Abby, who is faster than I am used to (Dax), I need to learn all over again how to handle a fast dog and how to work distance. Abby's training has excellerated under Rachel and I am happy to say at Abby's first trial she came in 1st in her Novice Jumpers with Weaves class and 4th in Novice Standard.

Introducing Cody, Sara Norman's Border Mixed Breed

Cody is a rescued dog, and well let's just say he came equipped with some less than desireable habbits. Being an active dog he managed to find mischief at every turn. I thought he really needed to do something but was very unsure how he would behave taking classes, and I did not want to burden or ruin anyone else's training for the sake of my dog. Rachel assured me that what ever the problem, she would help find a solution. We were able to attend a few different types of classes and Rachel always had an answer to the behavior issue at hand. No matter what your personal goals may be you can definetly benefit from the tools and skills she teaches you. Although we do not have lofty goals as competitors I can now enjoy my companion dog and it has helped us in so many ways! Understanding the reasons for a certain behavior and having that knowledge to help correct it is such a benefit to me, my family, and our dog! And it is a lasting benefit that I will never forget!

Welcome Savannah, Laurie Leffler's Border Collie

I have a four year old Border Collie named Savannah. When we started training with Rachel late last year Savannah was very unsure of herself, a bit spooky, quite shy and scared of several of the obstacles (due in great part to poor training with a prior group). Rachel basically took us back to square one. She patiently worked with Savannah and me to overcome alot of our issues. I'll never forget the cheers that Savannah received from the group when she finally went over the teeter totter successfully!!! Savannah is a different dog today - more self confident, loves to learn, and more social. We have taken a number of classes with Rachel and each one has been alot of fun (and of course, very educational!) She has a great sense of humor, a ton of patience and a wealth of knowledge about dogs and training. If a certain method isn't working with your dog, Rachel will figure out another way to get the concept across. I love the group lessons because you can learn alot by watching other people and their dogs. The best part of all of this is that I am having a great time with my dog and Savannah loves it too!

Presenting, Leslie and Dreamtime Hope Diamond, CGC, West Highland White Terrier

"Hope" and I started training with Rachel Flatley's PFDTG in January of 2006 in Agility, as well as Competitive Obedience. In six short months we have taken advantage of every training opportunity we could with Rachel. This included group lessons, private lessons, seminars, clinics, camp in High Springs, and most recently volunteering at DACOF. Without question, it's been one of the most rewarding and FUN experiences in my life. There was no shortage of knowledge and laughter in our pursuit to be the best we can be. Rachel, will make sure you have the tools to achieve all that you desire...and have fun at the same time. We have learned the true meaning of being a "team." The bond between dog and handler becomes greater as more confidence is achieved in each other. Rachel, is good at reading both the needs of the handler and the dog. Patience and perseverance is key. Soon enough, we will be competing, and I want to thank Rachel for giving us the foundation that is so necessary to achieve our highest goals. Many Thanks and "Hope" for our future.

Introducing IABCA Int'l Ch. Deauxquest Gusto On The Move, SD, Renee's Golden

Gusto is a 16 month young Golden Retriever who chose to live with me and his Bridge Brother, Breeze, from Colorado. We recently moved to South Florida from South Jersey permantley. Gusto is a sweet boy who is always looking out for new 4-legged friends (watch out ladies), is willing to please and take care of me, and is always willing to learn and be a show off (just like his brother was). It is extremely important to me to train in a positive manner; that is one of the many reasons we enjoy Rachel's classes. Gusto is definitely "on the move" and he will succeed if he has his mind set.

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