[bjoiner]

This is not a situation unique to pro dog trainers. I am a lawyer. (Yeah, I know yuck, but it is the same situation. When one needs a problem solved- who you gonna call?)

I probably get 5-7 calls per week from folks who just "need a little information." Sometimes I want to say, "that's what I sell along with my time. What's your credit card number ?" Or, sometimes they will even say they want a little "free advice." I want to ask, have you called your butcher lately for a little free steak?

But, I don't do these things. Instead, if it is a simple matter we discuss the situation and options. I view it as casting bread upon the waters, but 95% of the time I never hear from them again. I may try out seeing if they will trade out throwing birds or cleaning my kennels.

This is a very similar situation to pro trainers I would assume, but one thing I try to do in addition to helping is to refer work as often as possible.

 

[Paul Frey]

I am currently training 1 day a week with a pro. I have nothing but good things to say about him.

 

[TexGold]

The point of the thread is not whether you are happy with your pro. The point is trying to make people aware that when they ask for help from a pro, or use that pro's other resources such as birds, grounds, ATVs, etc., that the polite and honorable thing to do is to pay him unless prior arrangements have been made.

 

[Dave Farrar]

I am spending the day on Thursday with a pro that does group lessons. I went to a hunt test seminar that he did a few months ago and I decided I wanted to learn from him. It's a bargain for full day of training with my dog and learning as he instructs others.

 

[22899]

Miss Loveland is one of three folks that ha shown the patience to tolerate me.

That should tell you a TON about her.

I really don't know how she keeps from drowning me!