kat wrote:

That's a good suggestion. I just looked in the Yellow pages and there are a
total of three listings under pet & dog training (we aren't a large
community).

I'm betting that there are good trainers in your area who either
can't afford to advertise in the yellow pages (it's expensive!) or
can't handle the amount of business that would bring them. Ask
friends, your (new) vet, your boarding kennel, and local/nearby
shelters for referrals.

One is the kennel where we board the dogs while on vacation. I
really like the place (we've used several before settling on this one) but
my recollection is that they train hunting dogs only but I will check.

They might be able to help, and if not, they are likely to know the
trainers in the area and may be able to give you a recommendation.

We just got a PetSmart here? Do they do training?

I think most Petsmarts have trainers, but I don't think they offer
in-home help (at least, not through Petsmart). Also, Petsmart's
program tends to focus on basic obedience, socialization, etc. They
don't train their trainers in specialized behavior issues.

What should I ask/be looking for in evaluating a trainer?

If it were me, I'd start with recommendations from people I trust
(your boarding kennel will hopefully be a good place to start).
Keep in mind that training is a highly personal thing. The trainer
is going to evaluate the situation, then teach you how to work with
your dog, so it's got to be someone *you* can work with.

--
Shelly
http://www.cat-sidh.net (the Mother Ship)
http://esther.cat-sidh.net (Letters to Esther)