Lexi
The Adventure Begins: 07/15/2025
Coaching Resources
Start Here
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Start Here 〰️
The Handbook is a lengthy read, but has just about everything you might need to know when starting a program. This is the absolute best place to start with your training package.
Start Here
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Start Here 〰️
Guild Hall is a client portal within my website - you’ll find classes and events available only to past and present clients there, as well as discounts on certain future services. You’ll also find recommended outlets for your dog, including sports, events, and sniffspot information.
Character Sheet
Summary:
Lexi has made great strides since her adoption, and our focus now is on increasing her comfort with grooming, handling, and veterinary care. This session introduced the foundations of cooperative care, a training approach centered around consent and trust-building, allowing Lexi to actively participate in her own care.
We emphasized the importance of keeping cooperative care sessions distinct from necessary ("have to") care procedures, to preserve trust and reduce stress. We’ll be introducing a set of cues and routines to help Lexi feel more secure and willing to engage.
Key Concepts Introduced:
Cooperative Care
A consent-based approach to handling and care
Focus on trust, predictability, and clear communication
Separation of training (“can opt out”) and required care (“must be done”) sessions
Start Button Behavior: Chin Rest
Lexi places her chin on an object (e.g., towel, hand) as a signal to start or continue a procedure
When she lifts her head, the session should pause (still reward for communication)
Builds a sense of control and trust in the process
Additional Behaviors Introduced:
Give Paw – can lead into gentle foot handling
Handling Progression Strategy:
Begin with neutral or easy body areas
Observe and note sensitivity: e.g., Lexi shows more discomfort in lower joints vs. upper leg
Watch for differences between legs
Future Skills to Teach:
Brushing Prep: Using a Lickimat as a distraction and communication tool
Nail Care:
Introducing an emery board for gradual nail filing
Teaching a dig behavior on a textured board as an enrichment-based nail care option
Next Steps:
Recommend enrolling in Cast Guidance for structured ongoing support:
Cast Guidance Membership ($65/month):
🎓 Full library access (workshops, orientations, The Spellbook)
🧠 Weekly Office Hours (live coaching + Q&A)
🎯 One monthly Skill Check (30-min virtual session)
📽️ Weekly video review (up to 5 min) with feedback
🎟️ 10% off classes and workshops
Individual sessions can be added as needed to support Lexi’s progress.
Lexi is a resilient and thoughtful dog, and this work will continue to build her confidence and trust. Let’s keep sessions low-pressure and reinforce her choice to engage. Great work today!