Jane,

I began FlashPaws agility classes in June with absolutely no idea of what agility actually was. I had never seen an event or knew anyone involved. My dog was very young – nine months old – who liked to run up the ramps and through the barrels at a local dog park. A woman commented to me that he might enjoy agility training so blindly I followed through and chose FlashPaws mainly because it was fairly close to my home. On the first night of class I quickly realized that I was the only newbie in the class as everyone else had already trained one dog if not more. My first thought was to back out but the reassurances from James, Amanda, and Sheri were so encouraging and positive that I continued.

Each week through Agility 1, Intermediate I, and Intermediate II they have patiently taught, and I mean taught. I think I am the only one that ever asks questions which they enthusiastically answer and carefully explain not only the how's but also the why's. I love their encouragement and positive words and I also love their constant critique as they are truly helping me learn what works best for me and my dog. James is so dead on right when he notes something I did or did not do and often starts out  "I'm not picking on you, but..." and I love it because it shows he really cares. Never have I ever felt chastised but only steered to a better performance.

I love the way Amanda gives options on how to do the obstacles and then when watching me tells me that it worked for me and my dog or suggests I try it another way and gives me that opportunity. Sheri is just so darn helpful and encouraging – I think I nearly tried her patience to the core over the weave poles but I finally got the hang of it or at least my dog did.

I feel it is important for you to know how much I respect your instructors and the job they do. I know you trust them but isn't it nice to know how strongly I feel that there is no better place to train for agility. I sing their praises and the FlashPaws organization to my Champions neighborhood friends and neighbors who are also very interested in this fast growing sport. My husband has attended every class with me as a "watcher" and has learned a great deal, too. He will be starting in January as the handler for our other young dog who I think will excel at agility.

I have learned so much, bonded with a very nervous dog who has gained so much confidence, and had a great time. I love the way he responds to my commands and while we may not be very fast, we certainly can complete the obstacles now with an understanding of the skill and strategies involved. I have James, Amanda, and Sheri to thank for a quality experience and a new found interest in the sport of agility. My congratulations to you for such an outstanding organization.

My best,

Judy Kistner, Houston, TX

November 10, 2014

It’s important to learn from your mistakes. Two years ago I thought that agility was nothing more than entering your dog, showing up and running. Was I ever wrong! My last “pre-FlashPaws” show was so bad – and this is the absolute truth – that I went out and bought a new washer & dryer to make myself feel better. Mature reflection led to two conclusions: I couldn’t afford to buy a major appliance every time I entered an agility trial and I should call FlashPaws. What a perfect decision that was!! Jane analyzed our skills (or lack thereof); told me that Gaius should lose some weight (he is now a much healthier dog); said that there was hope; and, most importantly, was the picture of patience in spite of the fact that during many of our lessons I didn’t know my right from my left and Gaius spent most of his time sniffing for acorns.

Before long, we began to take classes in addition to our private instruction. I can’t say enough about the enthusiasm and expertise of the instructors. All of them know each dog and handler and offer very specific comments to make that team better. In both class and at trials FlashPaws people are always around to share your happiness when something goes well and encouragement when there are errors – usually those of the handler. Now – two years later – Gaius is working toward his second MACH and I have a new dog who began his FlashPaws lessons only 5 days after joining my family. I look forward to a long relationship with the wonderful folks at FlashPaws. (It is also worth noting that in the past two years I haven’t had the urge to buy even a can opener.)

Sandy Magie, Houston, TX
MACH River Oak Sherlock Holmes BN RN MXS MJS OF (Gaius)

Buddington's Lucius Verus NA NF (Lucius)
November 14, 2014

Hi Jane,

I do believe you’re responsible for the courses/stations we have in class. They are ALL awesome and full of challenges we need to have in our tool box. But,today’s was exceptional!! There were so many opportunities for improvement, A-Frame/tunnel discrimination, the worst possible approaches to the weaves (LOL), crossing behind A-Frame/dog walk, layering, contacts, correct end of the tunnel, and on and on. Have to say my favorite were the challenges at the weaves. And, as usual, Lois gives us the perspective that helps us learn how to ultimately correctly analyze the courseourselves. Every class I come to reaffirms why I’m driving to Houston. You outdid yourself today! Thanks a bunch!

Carole Cribbs, Georgetown, TX

MACH8 Paragon's Lone Star Runner MX MXJ MXF T2B8

MACH3 Let's Go Valentino OF

Dolly-Retired & Cheerleader

April 4, 2012

Jane:

One of the many things I value about the training I receive at FlashPaws is that I get advice on how to handle and motivate each of the very different dogs I train with. The instructors take the effort to learn about your abilities as a handler and your dog's qualities and personality.They then will provide suggestions that are helpful for that specific dog. This approach has been key for me in achieving milestones and being successful with each individual dog.

One person from another region of the state upon learning that I train at FlashPaws, asked me if we get some sort of personal self-confidence training as part of our classes. She had noted that many of the FlashPaws folks walk into the ring with an air of confidence that was visible.I told her we don't but what she was likely observing is the fact that because of the high level of instruction we receive at FlashPaws, as a FlashPaws student you walk up to the start line knowing you and your dog have had the very best training and are capable of doing great. Thank you for providing the very best learning opportunity.

Terese Rakow, Houston, TX

Jumpin' Jack Flash MXPB MJPB XFP

Fyfa MXPB MJPB OFP

November 21, 2014

FlashPaws is the complete package for agility training. The instructors are caring competent and interesting. Classes are very informative, challenging and fun.

Private lessons are tailored to focus on individual needs identifying areas of

weakness.

We have been extremely happy with our time at FlashPaws; our agility skills have tremendously improved – as well as our Q rate.

Gloria Richards and Preston, Bee Cave, Texas
MACH6 Sunraze Lookout For Campostela MXS2 MJS3 MXF T2B2

November 16, 2014

It is great training with Jane and her exceptional staff. The classes, taught by experienced handlers, are always organized, challenging and fun. There is a wonderful

camaraderie among the students and teachers. I recommend FlashPaws to anyone

serious about their agility training.

Lisa Brooks and Ginger, Houston, Texas
MACH Little Miss Ginger Snap MXS, MJS, OF, T2B, JS-N NAS, CSL2, CSL3-S

December 16, 2014