Since 2014 We have been training dogs and working with Therapy Dog Teams. This to encompass Basic and Advanced Obedience training. We have established Therapy Dog & Training programs with multiple Skilled Nursing Facility companies, as well as interfacing with local Hospitals. AVGK9 teams have provided Hospice services when they were needed most. These services were requested by major Hospitals that were unable to maintain their own Therapy Dog team. AVGK9 stepped in and was more than willing fulfill the request. (An example of this service can be found under, “The Smart Choice” tab. An Einstein story).
AVGK9 has now been able to create the Therapy Dog volunteer program. These teams are able to service individuals who need the companionship of a nonjudgmental pet. These volunteer Partners are able to work in environments that are not typically served by therapy teams; thus, providing loving animals to individuals that can benefit from their specialized training and skill.
AVGK9 will soon introduce the Service Dog utility program, to individuals in need of a specially trained service dog. Here dogs will be trained to the specific unique components that the handler requires, for support in their daily life.
Our Mission
To facilitate the communication between humans and dogs allowing for greater companionship, meaningful relationships, and to providing higher acceptance of dogs in our society through training and education.
Testimonials
Sandy T. & Wesley & Tucker: We are very glad that I found you on the Internet. Looking forward to this new chapter of being able to walk these boys stress-free!
Katie J. & Maggie: My dog Maggie and I have so benefited from this course. I am so excited that we completed the 6 week course. I would recommend it to anyone. Maggie is a young dog, and we now have a whole different relationship.
Kimberly M. & Finn: Robert is a great dog trainer, and this is his passion. My dog has come so far in six weeks, it is absolutely amazing! I would recommend this course to anyone!
Linda W. & Myla: I definitely recommend this course. It has been very effective, successful, and fun. Robert is very professional, and it is obvious that his passion is dog training.
Dr Robert Madda & Roxy: The class with Robert McKenna has been absolutely fantastic! The environment and the instruction, as well as the camaraderie has been extremely helpful to keep me motivated to work with my dog! ROBERT brings a great deal of experience, knowledge, and joyfulness to this class, and it is helpful to remind me to stop and smell the roses and be very gentle and compassionate and to connect with my dog! I would recommend this course to anyone who is invited or able to do it! Thank you, Robert and crew! (Yellow Jacket Therapy Dog)
Sharon G. & MR Bigsley: This training program, of basic obedience followed by therapy training, was exactly what my beloved dog and I needed to build a partnership in order for him to fulfill a purpose. With a cohort of canines of different breeds, sizes, ages, and temperament, Robert taught each team to reach their full potential, building on individual strengths and finding solutions for challenges. Under his guidance we learned skills for working in various environments and the science behind pet therapy. Robert’s high level of skill, experience and knowledge was evident in how every training session was run and the homework we were given. Every session was well-planned, and he organized the activities, so every team was constantly working in some context and taking advantage of every minute we had. The transformation in our dogs and our bond was remarkable and truly inspiring for me, becoming a therapy team was the dream I had for my big male Great Pyrenees when we adopted him at age 6. He loved to love, and he needed a purpose as a working dog. As a breed known for their independent thinking, I was not confident he and I could develop the skills we needed, but we did. Now, we have a stronger bond, he trusts me in new environments, and we have the unique opportunity to touch hearts and bring comfort. He has a noble purpose. YES, I would highly recommend this training. Based on my experience, I would recommend other courses as well.