My Woof Gang

Fear-Free Certified Trainer

WoofGang Shelter Partners

* Services

For shelters, WoofGang provides tools and techniques for assessing, training, rehabilitating, and counseling for shelter dogs. Further, we offer staff and volunteer training presentations, such as Defensive Handling, foundation training protocols, and advanced behavior modification techniques. We are happy to help shelters near and far! Just at us!

A successful shelter behavior program requires training shelter staff and volunteers in defensive handling, foundation training and life skills, and behavior modification techniques. Because the plight of shelter animals is Laura's mission, she has designed a 4-day training curriculum to teach these safe and essential skills to shelter personnel.    Contact Laura Garber to arrange for a 4-Day Shelter Dog Handler Training seminar in your shelter!

Download the 4-Day Shelter Dog Handler Training seminar poster and curriculum.

* Products

WoofGang offers the following online training options through a FaceBook Group interface:

• The WoofGang Buddy program trains dogs in essential skills that will attract and engage potential adopters and then readies dogs for their first days and weeks in their new homes. Purchase a single subscription to the Buddy Foundation Training program for $15.
• Purchase a 10-pack of subscriptions to the Buddy Foundation Training program for $135, effectively getting one subscription for free!

Online Shelter Buddy Programs

Shelter Buddy Foundation Training (Single Subscriber) $15.00 USD Shelter Buddy Foundation Training (10 Subscribers) $135.00 USD

* Resources

In-Shelter Articles

Impulse Control & Anti-Jumping		Treating Arousal		Treating Resource Guarding
Companion Behaviors		Hand Targeting		Intro to the Gentle Leader
Desensitizing to a Muzzle		Desensitizing to Handling		What is a Pit Bull?

In-Shelter Enrichment

Enrichment for Shelter Dogs		Enrichment for Shelter Cats

Resources for Shelter Dog Adopters

Adopting a Shelter Dog		Doggie Day One		Taking Home your New Dog
How to Housetrain your Pup		How to Crate Train your Dog		Stuffing a Kong Fit for a King
The Bark Stops Here		The Mouthy Dog		Cats and Dogs
Dogs and Kids		Puppy Socialization		Keeping the Peace in a Multi-Animal Household
Home Alone		Loving a Shy Dog		The Destructive Dog

Check out more WoofGang articles!...

Resources for Shelter Cat Adopters

Kitty Day One		Taking Home your New Cat		Cats -- Five Grand Ideas
				Find more resources on My PurrView!...
Thinking Inside the Box		Cats and Dogs

Resources from Other Sources

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) statements on
Positive Training and a Fear-Free Initiative, the Use of Punishment, the Dominance Theory, and Puppy Socialization

Body Language:
Lili Chen on Dogs, Dr. Sophie Yin on Fearful Dogs, and Lili Chen on Cats

DIY Interactive Puzzle Toys:
PVC Interactive Feeder for Dogs :: Snuffle Mat for Dogs or Cats :: Toilet Paper Roll Toys for Cats

Shelter Recommendations

"When it comes to training and enrichment, Laura Garber is the dog's best friend. She is the real deal because she has the knowledge, experience, and temperament to work with dogs of every breed, size, and disposition and deliver the kind of results that are well worth the investment of time and money. As the CEO of the Pennsylvania SPCA, the nation's second oldest humane organization and one of the largest, I had the opportunity to see Laura's work on a daily basis. She is passionate, well organized, and always looking to learn more so she can be the best at her work. I recommend her with great enthusiasm and without qualification." Jerry Buckley, Former CEO, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Laura took the PSPCA's behavior function from sparse basics to a robust program with significant impact in a very short period of time. The program goes beyond animal handling and evaluation to include behavior modification and individualized plans for a wide range of needs. Her "behavior on a shoestring" concept extended the reach of her expertise across staff and volunteers of all skill levels to help as many animals as possible. Laura has also been a valued colleague. I worked with Laura on our transport program, where she was an insightful and collaborative partner who helped build and refine this new program. Working with Laura has been a true pleasure, both as a co-worker and in observing the amazing impact she's had on so many animals." Linda Torelli, former Director of New Program Development, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Laura Garber is my go-to resource for canine behavior modification and training. Her extensive education and training ensures veterinary approved compassionate methods are utilized. Furthermore, her passion for dogs and dedication to each client results in improved outcomes and a strengthening of the human-animal bond." Dr. Jeff Stupine, VMD, Former Head of Wellness, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Laura is by far the absolute best dog trainer and behaviorist I have ever known. She is dedicated to her profession, and has worked many years honing her skills. Over the years, my rescue has worked with many trainers. Some were abusive, some well meaning but inexperienced, and some were just not competent. Laura NEVER failed us and more importantly she never failed the dogs we were trying to help. Laura is awesome!!!" Beth Marzo, President, Forgotten Friends of Long Island rescue, taken from a Google review

Volunteer Testimonials

"You worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the animals at the shelter, implementing many wonderful programs. You had a vision of what the behavior department could be, and then built it from the ground up. Because of your energy, passion and drive, hundreds of dogs and cats were able to find homes. I'm grateful to have been able to work with you -- you taught me so much and I have enjoyed being part of the behavior team." Rene, Behavior Intern & Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Laura, I learned so much from you, and I have used your teachings with my own dogs, and I am not shy about sharing what I have learned. You have an incredible common sense and decency in the way you approach each animal. I hope you continue to teach and spread your philosophy to others." Mary Kay, Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"You were a fantastic teacher at the SPCA, Laura. I don't think I ever would have had the confidence to adopt my dog if it were not for what I learned in your classes." Justin, Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"You were such a strong and dedicated advocate for each and every animal. Your passion, love, and expertise were a true gift to the PSPCA. Like all the volunteers, I have learned so much from you about training, caring, animal safety and best practices all around. Your presence and good humor is greatly missed. I wish you much happiness in your next venture, and I truly thank you for all the animals you have helped... and thank you for passing on your knowledge to me." Eileen, Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Just wanted to convey a big thank you from all the many, many animals that you helped at the PSPCA. You worked hard on their behalf, guiding them to better lives in so many ways. And personally, a thank you for sharing your enormous talents with me. Best of luck to you! You will be greatly missed." Rick, Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"Getting involved at the PSPCA over the past year has been transformative for me, and the way you opened up the behavior department has been an integral part of that. Thank you." Aaron, Volunteer, Pennsylvania SPCA

"I started with the TOHAS walking dogs and worked at a job I hated. You welcomed me to participate in your desensitizing lessons and Buddy training classes. Because of you, I changed my career and now train dogs. I spent years studying and continue to study Canine psychology and behavior through an all positive school. You changed my life. You helped me save dogs who were headed to the shelter. Because of you, I gained the confidence to rescue and adopt a blind pit bull who was born in a shelter and remained in a rescue for 1.5 years until I found her. She is a smart, awesome dog who has a great life. You prepared me to save her and make her family. You have touched the lives of many people. You woke me from a bad job coma and helped me find my dream job as a trainer. I am forever grateful for you and the short time we spent together. You are awesome and a wonderful inspiration to people and animals." Katie, Volunteer, Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter

"You are a phenomenal teacher and an inspiration. I learned so much from you at TOHAS, and I know others did as well. I know I've used what I learned with other dogs at TOHAS, my own dog, friends' and neighbors' dogs, all because of what I learned from you." Patty, Volunteer, Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter

"I learned all I know about the correct way to train dogs from you, Laura. When we set up our rescue, it was you who taught people how to handle and understand dog language. And since you left, not one trainer has come close to your ability or heart." Beth, Volunteer and President, Forgotten Friends of Long Island

"We miss you Laura. We learned so much when you were at Last Hope." Terri, Volunteer and Board Member, Last Hope