Foundational Skills

Beth was a wonderful teacher and helped us to better understand and get to know our new to us Hound. She was patient and I especially appreciated how welcoming CIC was to our kids. This was great to do this together. Thanks for the great work you do in our community!" -Jennifer B

taking Canine Inspired Change's therapy dog course. Taylor and Beth, the trainers, created a welcoming, non-judgmental space for everyone. My dog always was so excited to attend class. Something that sets CIC apart from other organizations is that they bring in volunteer students to practice working with the teams. I gained more confidence as we worked through real-life scenarios together. I would definitely recommend Canine Inspired Change and hope to take the tricks class next!” - Gracia S

has been nothing but positive. Our dog and I attended their Foundational Skills program in the summer of 2025 - Taylor and Beth did a wonderful job as facilitators. We found it extremely helpful and based on that, we've also committed to their next class, Therapy Dog training later this year. Overall, the organization's mission, programs and people are truly valuable and make a difference in our world, in my humble opinion." -Bryan A

The puppy class was thoughtfully curated and tailored to meet each puppy where they were. We not only learned the classic puppy skills, but also practical tools—like pattern games—that we can continue to use during the teenage years. Each week included new objects and experiences, from meeting people with crutches to being introduced to kids and new faces, helping the puppies build confidence. At the end of each class, there was even a bit of playtime for the puppies. Taylor and Beth also shared a wealth of useful information on navigating fear periods, recognizing appropriate play and handling for groomer and vet visits. We left the class with more knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to support our puppy’s growth." -Kelsey J

I was honestly at my wit’s end. I had tried other training centers, and each time I left feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and defeated—often in tears—thinking maybe my dog was just “bad” or untrainable. It was heartbreaking. Then we found CIC, and everything changed. At Canine Inspired Change, Torque wasn’t treated like a problem to be fixed—he was seen as a partner. Through their compassionate, empowering, and trauma-informed approach, we both grew in ways I never imagined. Torque became more than just my dog—he became my partner. I saw his confidence bloom and our bond deepen like never before. He went from being misunderstood to being celebrated, and I finally felt seen and supported as his person. Canine Inspired Change doesn’t just train dogs. They transform relationships. " -Madi N

we decided to try again at CIC, and let me just say the difference almost made me mad. Why can’t all puppy classes be like this one?!?! CIC cares about more than just teaching your pup basic obedience skills: they do that PLUS focus on the emotional wellbeing of both pup and owner. They’ve also created a space that is welcoming and supportive of the training, allowing sufficient space for each puppy to focus on the tasks at hand, while also giving them ample time to play with the other puppies at the end. There’s no way we would take Oliver anywhere else as we continue his training. Whether you are hoping your pup will eventually become a therapy dog, or you just want to get your pup off to a great start, this is the place to go." -T B

through other local training facilities and none of them come close to the excellent training, helpful hints, videos and compassion of the trainers at Canine Inspired Change. My dog and I will be continuing our training with the Therapy Dog classes and we're both excited for our class to start. Thank you so much!" -Nancy T

with professional and respectful trainers. Skills are taught clearly in a relaxed and measured way. Danielle and Taylor both have a way of making both owners and dogs feel like they can and will be successful. The most positive and encouraging trainers I’ve ever had!" -Liz M

of dog experts! Foundations class at CIC did what other training classes couldn't for my rescue dog and me. We became a better family because CIC met us where we were at and taught us the communication skills we needed to work through the rough stuff." -Louise T

Wonderful training for dogs but even more wonderful people. Me and my dog have become closer and more confident with the trauma-informed training :)" Katy B

environment for people and dogs. They have a wonderful dog centered approach to their training and my dog and I are very excited to volunteer with them after completing the therapy dog training course!" -Quinn T

My pup is afraid of other dogs because he's been jumped a few times by bigger dogs, so I have been looking for opportunities to help him learn that not all dogs are scary. Sydney is very knowledgeable about dog behavior and does a great job of educating humans about reading their dog's body language and ensuring interactions are positive. The class is very well structured and there is no pressure for dogs to engage with each other if they're not ready. Sydney is readily able to adapt the format to meet the needs of dogs wherever they're at on the play or reactivity spectrums." -A

about a lot of things (new people, UPS trucks, certain dogs, etc), and for him that looks like barking, lunging, growling, hard staring, and/or becoming stiff. We have relied heavily on his basic obedience skills to "manage his behaviors," but I always felt like we were not actually addressing the root causes of his reactivity: stress, fear, and frustration.

If you have a reactive dog, I can't recommend this course enough. It has made a huge positive impact on our dog and family. Our dog is happier and less stressed, and his reactive moments are much less intense and less frequent.” - Gracia S

organization. I learned so much and enjoyed bonding with my dog. Our teacher, Bethany, was so supportive and knowledgeable. She worked with everyone in the class individually and made us all feel comfortable. Definitely recommend CIC and will be signing up for our next class!" -Phoebe L

I recently took my senior Golden, Ace, to our very first training class — and it was truly one of the best experiences we’ve ever had together! At 10 years old, Ace isn’t new to the world, but seeing him light up and enjoy learning in such a positive, fun setting was incredible. I left every class feeling more connected to him and so proud of what we accomplished as a team. This experience wasn’t just about training — it was about creating memories, building confidence, and celebrating every step along the way. I cannot recommend this facility enough to anyone looking to strengthen their bond with their dog and have an amazing time doing it!!" -Sydney N

with CIC training my dog Georgia to become a therapy dog. We started with Foundational Skills and then moved on to Therapy Training. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and gifted at guiding Georgia and myself through all of the requirements during our sessions. I was always impressed with their organization of the classes and their attention to very specific details that we were going to need to be aware of for our work in the community. Classes were fun, informative, uplifting, and above all, they captured the sense of meaning I've been seeking for my dog's purpose in life right now. Georgia has a lot to offer and I believe I've found her connection to channel all of that now through the CIC mission. We learned the important skills to incorporate into our time training outside of class with our dogs, but also in our thinking about how we are going to engage ourselves with the populations that we intend to serve. I always left class with a renewed sense of purpose for what I wanted to do and why it was so important to me. " -Heidi C

impactful organizations I've ever connected with. Besides the training classes that are absolutely top-notch (shout out to Beth and her awesome tricks class!), the ability to do good with my dog is something that I am forever grateful for. Being able to volunteer my time, while spending time with my dog, and impacting students is so life giving. The power of a dog is amazing to see, watching students come out of their shells and open up to positive change." -Kayla R

We have taken courses including foundational skills, therapy dog training and a tricks class. Trainers are patient and knowledgeable and have given us the tools and information to become a confident therapy dog team. My dog is always happy to walk through the doors for some pets and love." -Sara O

just graduated CIC Puppy Class. This was without compassion the BEST puppy class I have ever taken. The education, support, hands on practice, homework, trainer availability outside of class, puppy play opportunity at the end of the sessions, etc. could not have been better! I highly recommend CIC for Puppy Class! We are registered and excited to now start the next level of their training classes." -Alison G

in the Big Feelings class! Sydney and Taylor are great trainers and we learned so much about our dogs emotions and our own emotions over the 8 weeks.” - Holly W

program here. The trainers were all amazing and did a great job helping me learn proper techniques and tips for helping my dog do the best he can. The environment of the classes was also super conducive to learning for both me and my dog. The teachers also did a great job creating a welcoming classroom that truly felt like a great place to learn. I definitely recommend coming here for dog training! They also have a little fenced in outdoor area for when your dog needs to go potty, or if they need a little mental break from training (it happens!).” -Tara

with CIC. With Beth as our trainer, we worked toward becoming a therapy dog team, and the journey was truly transformative for both of us. Their therapy dog training goes far beyond basic dog training. It focuses on building confidence, trust, and a deeper relationship between people and their dogs. Beth’s guidance was thoughtful, encouraging, and incredibly knowledgeable, and she created an environment where both dogs and handlers could grow and succeed. By the end of the program, Daisy-Mae and I successfully became a therapy dog team, and the bond and confidence we built together through the process has been amazing to see. CIC is an incredible organization doing meaningful work in the community, and we can’t wait to begin volunteering. I highly recommend them to anyone interested in therapy dog training or anyone who wants to build a stronger, more trusting relationship with their dog” -Amber

they willingly help reactive dogs in creative ways. I couldn’t find any class or trainer to work with my German Shepard. They welcomed us with open arms and we’ve seen so much progress. DIESEL LOVES YOU GUYS :)” -Erica

Our Golden Retriever puppy thoroughly enjoyed the playtime and structure of this class. Every aspect was intentional, controlled, and safe. Facilitator, Sydney, was so calm and instructional in every element. Loved having all the extra volunteers there as well!” -Jordan

Skills training class at CIC. The facility was large and welcoming. The trainers made a possibly stressful situation into an enjoyable experience! I’ve gone to other training classes at different facilities that produced anxiety, but the first class put me at ease! By the end of training, both my dog and I looked forward to the hour class every week. Thank you CIC! We are signed up for another class and can’t wait!” -Kimberly

I’ve taken two classes with my dog and the trainers are extremely knowledgeable, kind and patient. I brought my kids to several classes and they were welcomed with open arms! This place is amazing!” -Virginia

our Foundations Skills class with Sydney. She and all the volunteers were so amazing and helping learn some initial skills. CIC is a great place and the people really care. We can’t wait to learn more and continue our journey toward becoming a therapy pup. Thank you to the great team!”

who's started as a volunteer. We just finished the intro class, saw awesome progress with our pup, and got cheerful/insightful coaching to help with the unique troublesome behavior with our pup. Love the mission and likely to keep going to get our dog ready as a therapy dog" -Will

So many available services and they train using positive reinforcement. We are doing puppy classes and there are always 2-3 people helping out the lead trainer to answer questions and give feedback. They don't just teach your dog the basics, they help both of you build confidence together.” - Erin Z