You can send vaccination records to info@thecooperativecanine.com , upload them to your customer portal account, or have them with you at the time of your appointment.

Yes! Since dogs and cats can spread viruses and bacteria through their dander and saliva, we require up-to-date vaccinations for all our clients to prevent transfer of diseases between homes.

We require proof of up-to-date Rabies, DHLLP, and Bordetella. You can have them with you, upload them to your customer portal account, or email them to info@thecooperativecanine.com. We also accept titers.

TCC uses email and texts as our main forms of communication. Please make sure you are set up to receive our emails. You will receive emails and texts about upcoming appointments, reservations, and other announcements.

For any services which require us to access your house while you're not there, we require the use of a mechanical lockbox. We can provide you with one for a one-time fee of $20 (you will keep the lockbox). If you already have a lockbox or prefer to buy your own, our only requirement is that it be mechanical, not electronic. We require a lockbox even if you have a keyless entry system, as we have experienced failures of these systems in the past, leaving us unable to provide care to your pets. We also require that you provide us with the name and contact information for one LOCAL contact who also has a copy of your key. This contact could be a family member, friend, or neighbor and should be someone who could take care of your pet in case of a catastrophic emergency, such as a natural disaster or fire, or in the event your pet becomes a danger to themself or the pet sitter.

Every profession has a body of knowledge. Over time, that body of knowledge evolves to incorporate better and more efficient methods of attaining the profession's objectives. Oftentimes, as we learn more, we discard methods that are harmful or just plain wrong. This is true for all professions, and dog training is no different. Dog training is largely based on what we have learned from psychology over the years. A lot of research has been done in the field of psychology with humans and more recently with animals, including dogs. Humans and dogs have a lot in common when it comes to anatomy and biology, including certain hormones and neurochemicals that are instrumental in influencing behavior. Thus, much that has been learned that is true for humans is also true for dogs. As research has progressed over the decades, we have discovered better, more humane ways of working with animals that take into consideration their emotional and physical wellbeing. This has led many dog trainers to discard harmful, forceful methods that train dogs using brute physicality or the threat of pain to obtain compliance. Instead, educated trainers now understand the need to help dog guardians provide an environment that makes their dogs feel safe and interact in a way that improves the bond between them. These kinder, more science-based methods have outcomes that are much healthier for the dog and their guardian. At TCC, we are acutely aware that science isn't static, and we make it a priority to stay informed of new findings in the realm of behavior modification. Naturally, just because something new comes out doesn't mean we blindly embrace it; we consider it carefully to determine if it's effective and, above all, humane. Unfortunately, the pet care industry is unregulated, and there are no licensing or aptitude requirements to do business as a pet care provider. Certifications matter because not only are experience and knowledge required to attain them, but continuing education units are required to maintain them. As science-based pet care providers, it is essential that we are up to date on current behavior science, skills, and practices.

CPDT-KA, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed: indicates that a dog trainer has passed a comprehensive exam on instructional skills, learning theory, ethology, equipment, and animal husbandry, has at least 300 hours of hands-on dog training experience, and has signed a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. CBCC-KA, Certified Behavior Consultant Canine, Knowledge Assessed: indicates that a dog behavior consultant has passed a comprehensive exam on applied behavior analysis, consulting skills, ethology, health, and biology, has at least 300 hours of dog behavior consulting experience, and has signed a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. PPAB PCT-A, Pet Professional Accreditation Board Professional Canine Trainer - Accredited: indicates that a dog trainer has passed a comprehensive dog training knowledge exam, has at least 130 hours of hands-on dog training experience, has verified competence in dog handling and training skills via video submitted to an evaluating board, and has signed a Code of Conduct which includes committing to training using force free methods. It is the only certification in the industry that requires its certificants to affirm they will only use force free training methods. Fear Free Certified Professional: Trainers who complete the Fear Free Animal Trainer Certification Program acquire the skills to manage and handle dogs and cats alongside the veterinary team during veterinary visits and care to ease the pet’s apprehension regarding exams, procedures, and other care. The techniques may also be used in a home setting for carrying out or administering specific veterinarian-prescribed care plans or routine care like grooming. Most important, the Fear Free animal trainer is equipped to prepare pets for what to expect at the veterinary clinic so they experience the least amount of stress possible.

Our pet sitters are given the choice of attaining either their Certified Professional Pet Sitter certification or National Association of Professional Pet Sitters certification. Both organizations offer a multitude of educational opportunities, which means that our pet sitters have access to up-to-date information on the care and keeping of almost any animal kept as a pet including farm animals! Additionally, our pet sitters are all required to be Pet First Aid & CPR certified as well as Fear Free Pet Sitter certified. In order to maintain their certifications, our pet sitters are required to stay current through continuing education units.