What do our customers say about Shady Mountain Pet Retreat?
Read further and you will see that all of our canine clients leave here healthy, well behaved and happy.
April 2021
Hi Miriam, just wanted to give you an update on Buddy since he has been home for a few days. We are so pleased with his progress! Buddy is more calm all around, his demeanor is relaxed and he seems to have added confidence. His barking at the door is at a minimum and getting better. He is walking on the leash with ease which makes the whole experience more pleasant. Although he is not healing as close to us as we were taught, he is not so far ahead that he is pulling. We let him stop and sniff and explore but he isn't pulling to do so. There are two takeaways for us - he is more confident and we are less anxious about his behavior - definitely a win-win.
Thank you for your hard work with Buddy, we knew that with the right trainer his best side would be uncovered. He is the joy that we always thought he could be.
Fran Briley
Hi Miriam, just wanted to give you an update on Buddy since he has been home for a few days. We are so pleased with his progress! Buddy is more calm all around, his demeanor is relaxed and he seems to have added confidence. His barking at the door is at a minimum and getting better. He is walking on the leash with ease which makes the whole experience more pleasant. Although he is not healing as close to us as we were taught, he is not so far ahead that he is pulling. We let him stop and sniff and explore but he isn't pulling to do so. There are two takeaways for us - he is more confident and we are less anxious about his behavior - definitely a win-win.
Thank you for your hard work with Buddy, we knew that with the right trainer his best side would be uncovered. He is the joy that we always thought he could be.
Fran Briley
December 2020
I cannot begin to tell you how pleased I am with Izzy.
We have been working on her training and she is doing well.
The thing I appreciate the most is how calm and well behaved she is. She is a joy to be around.
Thank you for everything,
Jane Whitehead
We have been working on her training and she is doing well.
The thing I appreciate the most is how calm and well behaved she is. She is a joy to be around.
Thank you for everything,
Jane Whitehead
November 2020
"My gratitude for SMPR is hard to capture in words. Here is a good way to start: The hardest part about leaving VA (in 2017) was leaving SMPR behind. I have yet to find a good cat sitter / accommodation for Mr. Whiskers where I now live.
Recently, on a long drive back from NY State to SC, I booked a hotel room for myself near SMPR just so Mr. Whiskers could stay with Miriam and her wonderful staff! As soon as we arrived, he walked right into his luxury cat suite as if he’d never left!
The rooms are cozy, spacious, sparkling clean, furnished with excellent cat furniture, and have interesting views (of a dog park or outdoor garden). Miriam is highly skilled and compassionate when it comes to cats, dogs and other animals. Also, for longer stays at SMPR, she takes pictures and comments on each pet’s stay! I loved seeing these updates on the website when I used to board him there.
Miriam and her staff also spend quality time with each of their guests. When I dropped him off for a couple of nights in September, Miriam said she couldn’t wait to play with him. Comments like this are music to my ears.
Thank you SMPR for all you do! This is truly a luxurious place for pets to stay, and at a phenomenal price!"
We miss you!!!
Emma
Industrial / Organizational Psychology Consultant.
Recently, on a long drive back from NY State to SC, I booked a hotel room for myself near SMPR just so Mr. Whiskers could stay with Miriam and her wonderful staff! As soon as we arrived, he walked right into his luxury cat suite as if he’d never left!
The rooms are cozy, spacious, sparkling clean, furnished with excellent cat furniture, and have interesting views (of a dog park or outdoor garden). Miriam is highly skilled and compassionate when it comes to cats, dogs and other animals. Also, for longer stays at SMPR, she takes pictures and comments on each pet’s stay! I loved seeing these updates on the website when I used to board him there.
Miriam and her staff also spend quality time with each of their guests. When I dropped him off for a couple of nights in September, Miriam said she couldn’t wait to play with him. Comments like this are music to my ears.
Thank you SMPR for all you do! This is truly a luxurious place for pets to stay, and at a phenomenal price!"
We miss you!!!
Emma
Industrial / Organizational Psychology Consultant.
1/4/19
Five 🐾 (stars)! Shady Mountain Pet Retreat has been such a great resource not only for training but for boarding our dog. Miriam and staff are experts in their field and always have helpful tips for continued dog training and care. Her boarding facilities are top notch from cleanliness to size/space of runs, access to dog playgrounds, and even Kuranda dog beds for bed time. Our dog thinks of Shady Mountain as her camp time and gets so excited when arriving for a stay. We have such piece of mind when leaving her here and trust them with all aspects of her care. We are fortunate to have this facility available nearby.
Holly Perrow
Five 🐾 (stars)! Shady Mountain Pet Retreat has been such a great resource not only for training but for boarding our dog. Miriam and staff are experts in their field and always have helpful tips for continued dog training and care. Her boarding facilities are top notch from cleanliness to size/space of runs, access to dog playgrounds, and even Kuranda dog beds for bed time. Our dog thinks of Shady Mountain as her camp time and gets so excited when arriving for a stay. We have such piece of mind when leaving her here and trust them with all aspects of her care. We are fortunate to have this facility available nearby.
Holly Perrow
Hi Miriam, 5/2019
I am so thankful for everything you have done for my boys. They act like gentlemen now and even more importantly you have taught us how to make them listen and behave.
I remember the first time we called you and we were at a loss with what to do with Phatty and we didn’t know to do. We now can have people over and they both listen and behave.
I have no children. These are my babies. And I can’t thank you enough. I had so many compliments on their behavior and I sing your praise.
It was just very important to me that you know what a positive impact you have had on us.
Much gratitude,
Kristi Bouyea
I am so thankful for everything you have done for my boys. They act like gentlemen now and even more importantly you have taught us how to make them listen and behave.
I remember the first time we called you and we were at a loss with what to do with Phatty and we didn’t know to do. We now can have people over and they both listen and behave.
I have no children. These are my babies. And I can’t thank you enough. I had so many compliments on their behavior and I sing your praise.
It was just very important to me that you know what a positive impact you have had on us.
Much gratitude,
Kristi Bouyea
Hi Miriam, 6/21/16
I just read another update about Phats and I am beyond elated how well
he is doing and so happy he is making friends. I had so much anxiety
about leaving him (no reflection on you - just me). It means the
world to me that he has such a safe environment to flourish in. Just
wanted to say a big thank you! I had to do a double take on Snorty Pig
- I thought it was Benson!
Again - thank you!
Kristi S. Bouyea, CPA
Davidson, Doyle & Hilton, LLP
I just read another update about Phats and I am beyond elated how well
he is doing and so happy he is making friends. I had so much anxiety
about leaving him (no reflection on you - just me). It means the
world to me that he has such a safe environment to flourish in. Just
wanted to say a big thank you! I had to do a double take on Snorty Pig
- I thought it was Benson!
Again - thank you!
Kristi S. Bouyea, CPA
Davidson, Doyle & Hilton, LLP
“The mark of excellence is how things are handled when things are not going as planned like medical emergencies and other unforeseen circumstances. Miriam goes the extra mile and does what needs to be done for each and every one of her unique guests. The top notch care our pet receives at Shady Mountain makes it worth the trip from out of town.”
Debra Ross, human companion of Baci (White Std. Poodle)
Charlottesville, VA
1/2/16
Debra Ross, human companion of Baci (White Std. Poodle)
Charlottesville, VA
1/2/16
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Excellence is the word that comes to mind when thinking of Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. Whether you wish to board or train or both, you will not be disappointed. We welcomed a Pomapoo puppy named Albus to our family in January of this year and needed to train him. We had no clue what to do. A friend referred Shady Mountain to us and we are so glad she did. From the moment we met Miriam Babineau-...Fields, owner and operator of Shady Mountain Pet Retreat, we had no worries that Albus was in great hands. Miriam has years of experience in training dogs and cats. She has written numerous books including her most recent Training Your Labrador Retriever: Easy and Positive Dog Training. Her caring staff and helpers truly care for the dogs that visit Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. We have been so impressed with her knowledge of the dogs, their behaviors and temperaments. Our puppy Albus, spent time with Miriam and her qualified staff in training on basic commands, such as come and sit, come-sit-stay, heel and even trained Albus on a schedule for eating. She was patient in teaching us (the humans) on how Albus was learning his commands and how we can continue his consistency at home. Albus not only trains at Shady Mountain but he also boards there when we have to go out of town. We highly recommend Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. Please consider Miriam and her staff in caring for your sweet dog or cat.
Tammy and Ben Gutierrez Lynchburg, VA April 2015 |
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We have had our dog, Lido, for a year and while he was a loving and sweet guy, he was not obedient. We don't have a lot of free time nor did we put a lot of effort into training him. We knew something needed to be done and found Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. After talking with the owner, Miriam, we decided on a four week training course plus swim lessons.
The location is out in the foothills with lots of woods. The dog facilities are immaculate including the indoor pool. Each dog receives his own room with access to outside. You can provide your own food, but Miriam offers high quality food that our dog loves and you can get in a store near you. Once a week, it is recommended that owners come out and become trained themselves and see your dogs progress. After one week of lesson, Lido was a new dog. And after four weeks, Lido is calm, obedient, and happy. We are so glad to have found Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. Since they also board dogs, we will be using them whenever we go out of town. Thank you Miriam! Summer Sawyer Lynchburg, VA 2/15 |
Name: Denny Alecia Sizemore
Comments: Thank you for taking such wonderful care of Tucker! We are very grateful that you post frequent updates of your guests on the website. It is such a great comfort to us to hear that Tucker is doing well there! We are excited to learn that he is now among the general K9 population. We loved watching Tucker's first swimming experience!
Comments: Thank you for taking such wonderful care of Tucker! We are very grateful that you post frequent updates of your guests on the website. It is such a great comfort to us to hear that Tucker is doing well there! We are excited to learn that he is now among the general K9 population. We loved watching Tucker's first swimming experience!
Rachel Husband, human companion of Max
In the 6 months that I've had Max I found something out today that I never would have imagined- he is INSANELY ball motivated!!! He won't play fetch outside, just watches my parents' dogs run around the basement playing fetch, but in our training session this evening he wanted that ball! We had done a little work with heel/stay/ out of sight stay before dinner, all which was also good. I fed him dinner because he was showing signs of not being interested anymore, but after he ate, he was being rather annoying- so more training time! Since he was full, I was clicking and giving lots of praise and pats, and then we went downstairs and he ran and got the tennis ball? So, it turned into- Command, Click, I threw the ball, he brought it back and "traded" for a training treat. He was SO excited!!! Since he's turned off by working with the ball on the rope for whatever reason, I pulled out an old towel and started with the same principle- put your mouth on it- reward (with the ball), then I started pulling it around me and having him chase it to bite it- reward. He was so excited to be learning!
I cut a small hole in the towel and hung it on the knob of a cabinet, and re-started with bite and reward. By then I knew I was asking a lot for any one session, but he was still highly interested in the ball as a reward. So, it turned into "pull towel" and in two more tries- he pulled open the cabinet door! I then put the tennis ball inside the cabinet door- instant success! He was pulling open the cabinet door, a drawer, and even- half pulled a door! Just an old towel and a ball for a reward- I hope he keeps interested! Thanks for helping him "learn" how to learn!
6.14
In the 6 months that I've had Max I found something out today that I never would have imagined- he is INSANELY ball motivated!!! He won't play fetch outside, just watches my parents' dogs run around the basement playing fetch, but in our training session this evening he wanted that ball! We had done a little work with heel/stay/ out of sight stay before dinner, all which was also good. I fed him dinner because he was showing signs of not being interested anymore, but after he ate, he was being rather annoying- so more training time! Since he was full, I was clicking and giving lots of praise and pats, and then we went downstairs and he ran and got the tennis ball? So, it turned into- Command, Click, I threw the ball, he brought it back and "traded" for a training treat. He was SO excited!!! Since he's turned off by working with the ball on the rope for whatever reason, I pulled out an old towel and started with the same principle- put your mouth on it- reward (with the ball), then I started pulling it around me and having him chase it to bite it- reward. He was so excited to be learning!
I cut a small hole in the towel and hung it on the knob of a cabinet, and re-started with bite and reward. By then I knew I was asking a lot for any one session, but he was still highly interested in the ball as a reward. So, it turned into "pull towel" and in two more tries- he pulled open the cabinet door! I then put the tennis ball inside the cabinet door- instant success! He was pulling open the cabinet door, a drawer, and even- half pulled a door! Just an old towel and a ball for a reward- I hope he keeps interested! Thanks for helping him "learn" how to learn!
6.14
Kate O'Connell, human companion of Linus
After months of searching on the internet, I finally decided on Miriam and Shady Mountain Pet Retreat as the place I wanted to leave Linus, my 3 ½ month old Labrador Puppy for one month to have instilled in him the basics in obedience training. I was impressed with Miriam’s background in zoology and psychology, her vast knowledge and experience relating to all things four-legged as well as the fact that all of her results are achieved using positive reinforcement techniques exclusively. Once a week I traveled to train with Linus and Miriam in order to ensure that some of what he learned could be preserved after his return home. What I learned, and the puppy that came home with me, was beyond anything I could have hoped for. Linus is now 5 months old and we spend every day working on the basic commands we learned at Shady Mountain in every conceivable environment with varying degrees of distractions. He continues to grow rapidly, both physically and mentally thanks to the techniques we learned from Miriam. Whether we’re hiking on trails, walking in the neighborhood, or on field trips to Lowe’s, Pet Smart or the dog park; Linus is extremely responsive to the commands and directions we learned. This results in an extremely positive and enjoyable experience for both of us. No longer do I experience any anxiety in anticipation of challenging logistics related to traveling with Linus. Because he is so responsive and well-behaved it’s a pleasure to take him with me wherever I go. Shady Mountain Pet Retreat is now a place where Linus will visit often. It’s not just a place to drop him off when I have to go out of town but where he thrives and enjoys being. When he’s ready, Miriam will be training Linus to pass the National Therapy Dog Certification. In the meantime, we look forward to many more visits to Shady Mountain! Thank-you Miriam! We miss you!
4.14
After months of searching on the internet, I finally decided on Miriam and Shady Mountain Pet Retreat as the place I wanted to leave Linus, my 3 ½ month old Labrador Puppy for one month to have instilled in him the basics in obedience training. I was impressed with Miriam’s background in zoology and psychology, her vast knowledge and experience relating to all things four-legged as well as the fact that all of her results are achieved using positive reinforcement techniques exclusively. Once a week I traveled to train with Linus and Miriam in order to ensure that some of what he learned could be preserved after his return home. What I learned, and the puppy that came home with me, was beyond anything I could have hoped for. Linus is now 5 months old and we spend every day working on the basic commands we learned at Shady Mountain in every conceivable environment with varying degrees of distractions. He continues to grow rapidly, both physically and mentally thanks to the techniques we learned from Miriam. Whether we’re hiking on trails, walking in the neighborhood, or on field trips to Lowe’s, Pet Smart or the dog park; Linus is extremely responsive to the commands and directions we learned. This results in an extremely positive and enjoyable experience for both of us. No longer do I experience any anxiety in anticipation of challenging logistics related to traveling with Linus. Because he is so responsive and well-behaved it’s a pleasure to take him with me wherever I go. Shady Mountain Pet Retreat is now a place where Linus will visit often. It’s not just a place to drop him off when I have to go out of town but where he thrives and enjoys being. When he’s ready, Miriam will be training Linus to pass the National Therapy Dog Certification. In the meantime, we look forward to many more visits to Shady Mountain! Thank-you Miriam! We miss you!
4.14
Morgan Mandeville, human companion of Ginger
Ginger has stayed twice at Shady Mountain Pet Retreat and
has loved her time there. Leaving her in such a nice place where she can go in or out when she wants to and can play with other dogs gives us incredible peace of mind. We can enjoy our vacation knowing she is being loved, well taken care of, learning and having so much fun. Thank you for making it so much easier to leave our sweet Ginger behind!
2013
has loved her time there. Leaving her in such a nice place where she can go in or out when she wants to and can play with other dogs gives us incredible peace of mind. We can enjoy our vacation knowing she is being loved, well taken care of, learning and having so much fun. Thank you for making it so much easier to leave our sweet Ginger behind!
2013
Karen Lovecamp, human companion of Bronx Bomber
Miriam:
Bronx had so much fun the last week, he is tuckered completely
out.
Thanks so much for taking such good care of him. We will try our
best to continue the training you started. We already see a huge
improvement.
Thanks again,
Scott and Karyn Lovekamp
2013
Bronx had so much fun the last week, he is tuckered completely
out.
Thanks so much for taking such good care of him. We will try our
best to continue the training you started. We already see a huge
improvement.
Thanks again,
Scott and Karyn Lovekamp
2013
Amy Amerell, human companion of Rosie and Rufus
I have to tell you about my hike with Rufus today! We went for a 7 mile hike. He was off lead the entire time!!!! We passed runners, mountain bikers and other dogs along the way. I would tell him to sit and stay while the people passed and
he didn't move an inch :) . I was so proud of him and I am so
thankful that we found you to train with!!! I am so blessed to have these Goldens in my life.
Amy Peck Amerell
Lynchburg, VA
2013
Emily Gironda human companion of Gatsby
I just wanted to shoot you a quick thank you; my beloved Gatsby is staying with you right now (I wasn't able to travel with my husband to drop him off) and I'm spending a week in Barcelona, Spain. I have probably watched the video you posted on the "Current Guests" page about 200 times. I didn't realize how attached I've become to my puppy, and am grateful he is being taken care of so well! Thank you again for the effort you make to keep obsessive, helicopter pet
parents connected.
2013
parents connected.
2013
Tim Wells companion of Toby
Kathy and I want to thank you for the excellent job you did with Toby. He is so well behaved. We have been working with him and are so pleased with the progress you and Toby have made. We are looking forward to working with you
in the near future. Toby doesn't jump up anymore, he has a much
calmer demeanor and he is still as affectionate as ever. Thank you so much and we will see you Saturday for his next lesson.
Tim Wells
Lynchburg, VA
2012
Tim Wells
Lynchburg, VA
2012
Jeff Bryant, human companion of Carly
Carly is a different dog. She is more settled and disciplined. We have worked
with her training daily since her return home and she is continuing to improve
her skills. Yesterday in a down position stayed as we walked approximately 30
yards from her. She responded well to "Carly come" from the stay position and in
fact went back to the "down" position on command during her transition coming to
us.
We sincerely appreciate all that you did with Carly. We will continue to
work with her daily, especially on her focus skills. We look forward to staying
in touch with you.
Respectfully,
Jeff
2012
with her training daily since her return home and she is continuing to improve
her skills. Yesterday in a down position stayed as we walked approximately 30
yards from her. She responded well to "Carly come" from the stay position and in
fact went back to the "down" position on command during her transition coming to
us.
We sincerely appreciate all that you did with Carly. We will continue to
work with her daily, especially on her focus skills. We look forward to staying
in touch with you.
Respectfully,
Jeff
2012
Chesna Vitanovec Companion of Faith
Miriam, Are you sure you didn't switch out dogs? My dog always barked at people, didn't always listen to commands, was really crazy( energy), and took awhile to get into working mode. Well, Faith did excellent on the way home and in the drive thru of a fast food place. Not one peep out of this girl, and then later when stopped at Starbucks. She saw a huge dog, started to make a noise, but by pulling down on her nose-band she ignored the dog. She heeled into Starbucks, sat and down when told, and heeled back to the car. She sat every time I told her to and waited till I told her "break". She did try us once home by jumping out of the car, taking awhile to sit at the door, and not wanting to heel through the house. She is very tired, but even when our little daschund came into her room she was really a different dog around her even. She is listening to our commands finally. I appreciate the hard work you put into training her as she is definitely way better than a month ago. Please know that we are very appreciative and hope you know how much you just assisted us. It is like we have a new dog.
Chesna Vitanovec
Waldorf, MD
2012
Chesna Vitanovec
Waldorf, MD
2012
Julie Passmore companion of Daisy Mae
I left my 9 month old Brittany, Daisy Mae with Miriam for a few days. I'm going to have to go all the way back to Amherst this weekend because clearly, the dog she sent me home with isn't my dog although she does look like her and is wearing her collar and tags. My dog planted a big muddy paw print on my chest the morning I took her to Miriam. This dog ran out of her suite to me and sat politely to be greeted. My dog pushed past people to get out of the door - this dog sits politely and waits for an OK to pass. My dog had to be physically restrained to have a leash attached. This dog sits nicely for the process. My dog literally pulled me off my feet a couple of times when on the leash, this dog walks to heal nicely .
Having spent a few weeks in obedience training with Miriam and seeing such progress, it made perfect sense to leave Daisy with her when we went away for a few days. She accomplished more in those few days than I've accomplished in several weeks (actually, let's be honest, about 7 months!)
Daisy will be returning to Shady Mountain for a 12 day stay in a couple of weeks. I'm hoping she'll be able to help with the housework when she gets home. Perhaps fold laundry? mow the lawn?
Seriously, Miriam - you are awesome and I'm so glad that Daisy and I found you. You have helped us tremendously and helped me make peace with the fact that I'd forgotten how much WORK a puppy is but that it WILL get better and Daisy will be a full member of this family!
I've attached a picture that's a little more attractive than the soggy dog one you have. That was the old Daisy - this new Daisy is much nicer to be around. I think I'll keep her!
Julie Passmore
Lynchburg, VA
Having spent a few weeks in obedience training with Miriam and seeing such progress, it made perfect sense to leave Daisy with her when we went away for a few days. She accomplished more in those few days than I've accomplished in several weeks (actually, let's be honest, about 7 months!)
Daisy will be returning to Shady Mountain for a 12 day stay in a couple of weeks. I'm hoping she'll be able to help with the housework when she gets home. Perhaps fold laundry? mow the lawn?
Seriously, Miriam - you are awesome and I'm so glad that Daisy and I found you. You have helped us tremendously and helped me make peace with the fact that I'd forgotten how much WORK a puppy is but that it WILL get better and Daisy will be a full member of this family!
I've attached a picture that's a little more attractive than the soggy dog one you have. That was the old Daisy - this new Daisy is much nicer to be around. I think I'll keep her!
Julie Passmore
Lynchburg, VA
Nancy Allen, Companion of Bear
We boarded our large, energetic lab-shepherd mix at Shady Mountain Pet Retreat and were very happy when he returned well exercised and freshly washed. His kennel was spacious and light filled, and he had the opportunity to play and interact with other dogs in a supervised setting. Next time, we plan to schedule some training for him as well, and we appreciate having that option to keep his mind engaged. The surroundings are beautiful and, from a dog's perspective, full of stimulating sounds and scents. Remember to bring your dog's bedding, toys, and food.
Nancy Allen
Lynchburg, VA
Nancy Allen
Lynchburg, VA
Noreen Turyn - Companion of Cadbury
He's my first dog ever, and it was my first long vacation as a dog owner. I couldn't stand the idea of leaving my dear Cadbury in some cement kennel somewhere with no human interaction or love, only being let outside to do his business! So my neighbors told me about Shady Mountain Pet Retreat. I think the "spa" type descriptions of the place are fun, but to me, I really liked the idea of having someone who would love my dog and treat him like he's almost at home. Of course I left and went on vacation, so I don't know what really went on while I was away, but judging by how worn out he was when I picked him up, I could tell he had lots and lots of play time with his new friends, and certainly didn't see any indication that he anything but a really fun time at "summer camp." I also paid extra for training while he was there (to ensure that he'd get even more individual attention.) He already knew sit, stay, lie down, paw, and wait, but at Shady Mountain he was learning a new trick, and how to heal on a leash, He's still learning it, but it was a great start!
Noreen Turyn
Senior Editor/News Anchor WSET
Lynchburg, VA
Noreen Turyn
Senior Editor/News Anchor WSET
Lynchburg, VA
Joan Macaluso - Companion of Ben and Rosie
Ben & Rosie are both high energy, active, easily distracted 2 year old Australian Shepherds. Since I was going to be gone for almost a month on my last vacation, I was very concerned about leaving them anywhere for that long. Especially since Rosie is a "special needs" dog and has a few special requirements for her feedings and treats. Having known Miriam since 1994, I knew she was the one person I could trust completely to take care of Rosie's special needs and look after Ben. During their stay Miriam worked with both of them on some behavioral issues and even taught Ben some tricks I had been attempting to teach him without any success. Upon returning from vacation, I found them to both be happy, well exercised, and in great condition. The long trip home was made so much easier because they were both tired from all the exercise and training they received. Since our return home, Ben & Rosie have both been much more well behaved and easier to live with. I would definitely leave them with Miriam any time they need to be boarded.
Joan, Elizabeth, Ben & Rosie
www.petsinglass.com
Joan, Elizabeth, Ben & Rosie
www.petsinglass.com
Cherie Washburn - Companion of Molly
Craig and I took Molly to the walking trails at Blackwater Creek and we let her off leash and she did wonderfully. She walked a bit ahead of us but never strayed very far and listen on the recall. She greeted people with very little anxiety and even trotted behind a runner for few steps playfully.
I just wanted to let you know she continues to improve and since this last visit with you she seems to better behaved and more settled. I am sure she will hit another growth spurt where she wants to misbehave again around sixteen months or so and when that happens I will be sure to let you know so we can schedule another week!!
Thanks again for all you have done for her and for us. We can now enjoy her everyday and she is a happier girl because of her training with you.
Cherie Washburn
Lawyer @ Weber Pearson Law
Lynchburg, VA
I just wanted to let you know she continues to improve and since this last visit with you she seems to better behaved and more settled. I am sure she will hit another growth spurt where she wants to misbehave again around sixteen months or so and when that happens I will be sure to let you know so we can schedule another week!!
Thanks again for all you have done for her and for us. We can now enjoy her everyday and she is a happier girl because of her training with you.
Cherie Washburn
Lawyer @ Weber Pearson Law
Lynchburg, VA
John Fees - Companion of Gus
We were referred to Shady Mountain Pet Retreat by two friends in Lynchburg, Virginia. Our dog is a purebred Shiloh Sheppard, a little puppy that was going to grow into a big boy, as his father was 130 pounds plus. We were looking to have our guy, Gus, behave in a fashion that having such a large dog in our home would not be an issue, but a blessing. Gus had two short-term stays where some training was done, which encouraged us to have Miriam do more extensive training of Gus. We decided to leave Gus for four weeks, and visit once every week so we could be trained in how to command and reward him. Gus made great progress in the time there. He walks in a very controlled fashion on and off leash. He had poor habits of rushing doors, and jumping on people that has been eliminated. He learned some tricks that we continue to develop based on what he learned. Most importantly, Miriam helped us understand some diet issues Gus was having, took wonderful care of him, including home cooking him meals for a period, and we were able to get him back on track in the interest of his overall health and wellbeing. I know Gus will look forward to returning for visits in the future.
John Fees
Lynchburg, VA
John Fees
Lynchburg, VA
Helen Shivnan - Companion of Caleb
Caleb was a gift from a friend, his dad is a purebred Shiloh shepherd, so we knew he was going to grow into a big dog. I am in healthcare and wanted to use Caleb as a therapy dog, so I knew I would need help with this big, rambunctious, and friendly puppy. I read over Miriam’s website and liked her approach. I contacted her and we chatted about what I hoped to achieve for Caleb. She was very informative. Now he has just graduated from a month long stay at Miriam’s retreat, and he is better than I could have ever imagined. Miriam is wonderful woman, and a genius with animals, people too! She worked with me every Saturday while Caleb was boarding and training, and I am not a natural at this. Throughout the month I was able to stay in contact with Miriam, ask questions and receive welcome advice. Caleb is a joy to be around, very affectionate, calm, well mannered on and off leash. He joins me at work and is an excellent therapy dog. I could not have done this without Miriam, and all the support she gave us. I plan to continue taking lessons from Miriam weekly. I am an absolute believer and can’t say enough about Miriam and the experience at the pet retreat.
Helen Shivnan
Nelson, VA
Helen Shivnan
Nelson, VA
Michael Boren -Companion of Chloe and Bruni
Chloe
I recently picked up a brochure for Shady Mountain Pet Retreat at my veterinarian’s office. That led to a further exploration of the business on-line. It seemed to offer everything that we had hoped to find for our dogs—a combination of an excellent kennel facility and expert, personalized training.
We have two 8-year old Labs and an 18-month old French Bulldog. They had become increasingly out-of –control due to a lack of consistent discipline. I called Miriam and had a talk with her about our pets. We agreed that she would come to our home in Lexington to evaluate the situation and get us started on training. One of the Labs is blind, so we decided to leave her out of the training for the moment. From the first encounter with the pets, Miriam made it clear that she/we would be in charge and not the dogs. We had 3 private lessons at the Retreat with the two dogs to get them started on basic obedience. We followed this up with 17 days of boarding with training.
We picked up the two dogs a couple of days ago and had another lesson with Miriam before we left. The change in their behavior is nothing short of miraculous. They and we still have work to do, but they are on the right track and so are we. The company of the dogs is so much more pleasant for us than it was before we started the training with Miriam. She not only understands the psychology of animals, but also human psychology. Her training skills cover both the animal and the owner. Her training manner is gentle and kind, but firm. It is a reward-based tough love approach. Like young children, pets are more secure and pleasant when they know what their boundaries are. Miriam is showing them and us what those boundaries are and how to maintain them.
The retreat is just what the name implies. It is as close to a spa get-away as one could imagine for pets. The facility is small as to the number of boarders it can accommodate, but it is big on comforts, both large and small. The kennel is immaculately clean and odor-free, bright and cheerful. Each suite is decorated individually. There are outdoor runs, a common play area, indoor and outdoor training areas, a pet boutique and a spacious kitchen and grooming room. We owners should have the chance to be so pampered!
We are continuing the training at home because consistency is the name of the game. We will also follow up with another boarding session and additional private lessons until the dogs have reached their full potential as congenial companions.
Michael Boren and David Schuenke
Lexington, VA
We have two 8-year old Labs and an 18-month old French Bulldog. They had become increasingly out-of –control due to a lack of consistent discipline. I called Miriam and had a talk with her about our pets. We agreed that she would come to our home in Lexington to evaluate the situation and get us started on training. One of the Labs is blind, so we decided to leave her out of the training for the moment. From the first encounter with the pets, Miriam made it clear that she/we would be in charge and not the dogs. We had 3 private lessons at the Retreat with the two dogs to get them started on basic obedience. We followed this up with 17 days of boarding with training.
We picked up the two dogs a couple of days ago and had another lesson with Miriam before we left. The change in their behavior is nothing short of miraculous. They and we still have work to do, but they are on the right track and so are we. The company of the dogs is so much more pleasant for us than it was before we started the training with Miriam. She not only understands the psychology of animals, but also human psychology. Her training skills cover both the animal and the owner. Her training manner is gentle and kind, but firm. It is a reward-based tough love approach. Like young children, pets are more secure and pleasant when they know what their boundaries are. Miriam is showing them and us what those boundaries are and how to maintain them.
The retreat is just what the name implies. It is as close to a spa get-away as one could imagine for pets. The facility is small as to the number of boarders it can accommodate, but it is big on comforts, both large and small. The kennel is immaculately clean and odor-free, bright and cheerful. Each suite is decorated individually. There are outdoor runs, a common play area, indoor and outdoor training areas, a pet boutique and a spacious kitchen and grooming room. We owners should have the chance to be so pampered!
We are continuing the training at home because consistency is the name of the game. We will also follow up with another boarding session and additional private lessons until the dogs have reached their full potential as congenial companions.
Michael Boren and David Schuenke
Lexington, VA
Heather Hudson - Companion of Chase
Chase is my very sweet and loving companion that I hoped to show in obedience. But at seven months old I knew I needed help with this super smart and active pup. He was rushing through doors, counter-surfing, and stealing food from the other dogs…. only to name a few. My husband was completely frustrated. Chase was a long ways away from becoming an obedience champ! That’s when Miriam entered the picture. Chase stayed with Miriam at Shady Mountain Pet Retreat for training. I visited once a week during his stay so Miriam could show me how to work with him. It was fun to see how far he had come each week. At home it was amazing to see how all of his old issues were all but non-existent. We still visit Miriam every week to continue our training. In a very short four months, Chase has transformed into the PERFECT dog.
Over the holiday weekend Chase went with me to a large family gathering. His perfect manners induced many compliments and comments like, “I want a dog like that” and “why won’t my dog behave like that”. He has also earned his Rally Novice, Rally Advanced, and Novice Obedience titles with Miriam’s handling. His titles are a great accomplishment for such a young pup.
I am extremely pleased with my experiences at Shady Mountain Pet Treat. The facility is great and is always in tip-top shape. Chase obviously likes the suites and always greats Miriam with his “boy I haven’t seen you in a while” talk. I look forward to continuing our weekly training with Miriam and to see Chase’s future progress (and mine too)!
Over the holiday weekend Chase went with me to a large family gathering. His perfect manners induced many compliments and comments like, “I want a dog like that” and “why won’t my dog behave like that”. He has also earned his Rally Novice, Rally Advanced, and Novice Obedience titles with Miriam’s handling. His titles are a great accomplishment for such a young pup.
I am extremely pleased with my experiences at Shady Mountain Pet Treat. The facility is great and is always in tip-top shape. Chase obviously likes the suites and always greats Miriam with his “boy I haven’t seen you in a while” talk. I look forward to continuing our weekly training with Miriam and to see Chase’s future progress (and mine too)!
Cynthia Scott - Companion of Kodiak
We frequently travel for work, so Kodiak knows exactly what the suitcases mean. We are subjected to lots of moping and sighing as we pack and load into the car, but once we pull off Route 60 and start climbing up the familiar switchbacks of Burley Hollow Road, all anxieties are forgotten and the excitement grows to a fever pitch. Thanks, Miriam, for the peace of mind that comes from knowing Kodiak is not only well-cared for while we are away, but that he is thoroughly enjoying his time at Shady Mountain!
Cynthia Scott
Cynthia Scott
Scott Glass - Companion of Bailey
Alice and I can't tell you how much we enjoyed meeting you and having Bailey stay at Shady Mountain Retreat. We've searched for years to find a place to board our golden girls that we were comfortable with, and it's marvelous to know we've found it at last. What a great discovery! The individual air conditioned suite for Bailey, her ability to interact with other dog guests, and especially the attentive care you gave her finally allowed us to have a vacation where we didn't have to worry about our dog.
Bailey came home relaxed and happy to see our family, but it was obvious that she had really enjoyed her stay with you. The training that Bailey received from you during her stay was very effective - she's still hanging in with her come, sit, stay, heel and down commands. Your "clicker" training methodology is an amazing alternative to the traditional training route we've gone in the past, and it's working really well with Bailey. We'll be in touch with you soon to schedule Bailey's next visit!
Scott Glass Scott Glass Architect P. C.
Lynchburg, Virginia 24503
Bailey came home relaxed and happy to see our family, but it was obvious that she had really enjoyed her stay with you. The training that Bailey received from you during her stay was very effective - she's still hanging in with her come, sit, stay, heel and down commands. Your "clicker" training methodology is an amazing alternative to the traditional training route we've gone in the past, and it's working really well with Bailey. We'll be in touch with you soon to schedule Bailey's next visit!
Scott Glass Scott Glass Architect P. C.
Lynchburg, Virginia 24503
Donna Cochran - Companion of Rye and Hunter
Ms. Fields:
I would like to take this time to say how much you have educated me about my dogs. I have said this is how they are and accepted it, you said they would be happier if we set boundries. They have a long way to go. I have a very long way to go but I feel that they will make it to where I can be in charge.
I feel that my dogs are safe and well taken care of when I leave them and you do all you can to make them better. Thank You for putting up with my crazy Rye and helping me make them better.
Thanks Donna
I would like to take this time to say how much you have educated me about my dogs. I have said this is how they are and accepted it, you said they would be happier if we set boundries. They have a long way to go. I have a very long way to go but I feel that they will make it to where I can be in charge.
I feel that my dogs are safe and well taken care of when I leave them and you do all you can to make them better. Thank You for putting up with my crazy Rye and helping me make them better.
Thanks Donna
Joyce Rumberg companion of Bitsy
Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the work you did with Bitsy (and me) in order to help her become more socialized. She is so much happier and is becoming better at meeting people every day. We had our first visit to Laurel Stone last week and she did so well. Wagging her tail at everyone and playing with some big dogs in the waiting room. She still has issues that surface from time to time, but she has accepted this as her forever home and is adapting. Will talk to you soon on her stays in Nov and Dec.
Thanks again, Joyce Rumburg
Thanks again, Joyce Rumburg
Terry Lynn, companion of Darby and Simon
I just wanted to send a quick line to thank Miriam so much for taking in Darby and Simon, two Weimaraners, at the last minute. We drove from Woodbridge, VA to drop them off. When picking them up, the boys returned home very happy and with a very good start in obedience training. The training halters she recommended really assisted in their continued training and they do not pull like they use to. We are very pleased with their boarding and training experience and wholeheartedly recommend Shady Mountain Retreat to anyone requiring boarding or training for their dogs. Thank you very much for peace of mind and a place our boys feel at home.
Terry Lynn
Woodbridge, VA
Terry Lynn
Woodbridge, VA