Dog Trainer in Nanaimo, B.C.
Helping rescue dogs thrive - with support for the people who love them.
Empowering owners, transforming behaviours
I’ve been in your shoes! You've read the books, watched lots of dog training videos, and done everything “right”-but your dog’s challenging behaviours persist. You love your dog, but you're frustrated by their outbursts and nervous about taking them to new places or meeting new people. I've had those dogs, too! They were wonderful rescue dogs that taught me the tools that I am excited to share with you. Training can be fun for both ends of the leash,
What are you struggling with?
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Barking is an essential communication tool for a dog, but excessive barking is often a sign of over-arousal, fear, or desire for attention. Excess barking can be addressed and /or managed using straightforward training strategies.
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Is your dog barking and lunging at dogs or people? Are you nervous when you are outside your house or when people come over? This is typical for fearful rescue dogs. Increasing their confidence through training will make them feel safer in the world.
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Do you hate the idea of walking your dog on a leash? You are not alone. Many dogs that were rescued or rehomed may have never been on a leash before, which makes walking with them challenging. Working together, we can help your dog learn to walk calmly on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.
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Being off-leash is a wonderful experience for a dog, but you need to be confident that your dog will return when called, primarily for their safety. A reliable recall will happen when we have strong communication skills with our dog. I can help you get there.
Meet Your Dog Trainer
Being of service to my community has been at the heart of my journey:
First, as a gymnastics and triathlon coach,
Then for 20 years as a police officer,
And volunteering at the Nanaimo SPCA
What does that mean for you and your dog?
I have spent my adult life breaking down problems into manageable pieces.
I have worked with a lot of anxious, excited and reactive dogs in highly stressful environments
Rascals and Rescues was a natural marriage of my many years of experience coaching with my passion for animals!
Testimonials
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Tammy Williams
Sherri is truly amazing! Her patience, intuition, and ability to understand each dog’s unique needs set her apart. She works at the dog’s pace while still delivering the results I wanted as a pup parent. Sheri doesn’t just train dogs—she builds trust, strengthens the bond between pet and owner, and makes the whole process feel natural and encouraging!
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Patti Zee
After only one session Tucker was walking way better on his leash and more attentive to me rather than the other dogs or people. Thanks so much Sherri!! Looking forward to our next session
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Kathryn Grabher
Sherri is an exceptional coach and person. As a triathlon coach, she was outstandingly organized, a clear communicator, came to each lesson with a prepared personalized lesson plan, and provided follow-up support. She not only helped our child gain triathlon skills, but she also helped him gain a remarkable level of self-confidence. Our children have had many wonderful coaches, but Sherri is a true star. I highly recommend Sherri as a coach and trainer!
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Christy Wood
Sherri is so patient with my pup and is quick to get to know her triggers and cues. She was a great coach not only for my pup but for me too, assuring me I was doing all the right things. Thanks Rascals and Rescues!!
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Terri Gregorie
Sherri is a phenomenal trainer. She worked with me and my two, two year old, Labrador siblings at our home here in Cedar. Sherri came for a meet and greet, and offered a few pointers. I used her suggestions and within a week when she arrived for our first training session, my dogs behaviours had notably improved. Sherri has a way about her which encourages confidence in both my dogs and myself as their pack leader. She put a lot of thought and research into our unique and complicated situation and sent emails with links for me to check out. I am so very happy with the progress that has been made in just a few weeks of private, one to one training. I would highly recommend Rascals & Rescues to any dog owner. Sherri knows her stuff! Thank you for helping me Sherri, YOU'RE THE BEST!
