July 6, 2020
Hello Pup Parents,
We are writing to you today as a group of Portuguese Bend neighbors, friends, and dog owners who have, or are currently being helped by Anita Anderson’s services. Each of us consider the work that Anita performs here to be a service to the Portugugese Bend community, our families, and our pets.
Neighbors often see Anita in Portuguese Bend with our pups and are incredulous of one woman’s ability to safely orchestrate such a joyful gathering. They see dogs having a wonderful time, and on command, the dogs respond to whatever Anita asks of them as a group, and as individuals. Observers are amazed at her extraordinary control.
While it may look like magic, it’s actually the result of a strenuous and challenging series of training that these Portuguese Bend dogs and their owners have been through in order to qualify to participate with the Bend Group (as it is nicknamed).
First, the dog owner and her pet meet with Anita for an interview and assessment. If Anita sees potential, the dog and the owner begin a series of one-on-one and group training to prepare for eventual participation in the Bend Group sessions. Anita may work with a pair for weeks or many months, depending upon the dog’s progress. Anita is somewhat famous for her ability to turn difficult and unruly dogs around. There are a number of Portuguese Bend dogs who previously could not safely be taken out for walks, interact with other dogs, socialize with non-family members or respond to owner commands that Anita’s training has completely transformed.
Once the training process has progressed to a certain point, Anita may invite the dog owner and pet to observe a Bend Group play session. She carefully introduces the group dogs to the new dog, and then, over a period of weeks, the owner and dog attend together. The dog slowly develops within the group, improving social skills, command response, and becoming fully trustworthy. All newly accepted dogs progress to a longer leash, which is one of several safety training tools used to teach a safe, extended recall. Not until a dog has progressed through all levels of Anita’s program is he permitted to participate in the Bend Group. Our pups absolutely love the Bend Group, and participating in this group has been foundational to helping us raise well balanced, obedient and contented pups.
Anita also practices a leave-no-trace policy, cleaning up after every dog and leaving nothing behind.
Anita and her socialized, obedient, and trustworthy dogs are a benefit to Portuguese Bend, but there are other positive repercussions….
- Neighbors in the training program begin to establish connections with each other, and new introductions to other neighbors naturally begin to occur, further expanding bonds within the community
- Dog owners who have been through Anita’s program walk their dogs often, increasing the number of resident eyes and ears keeping an eye on things in Portuguese Bend.
- Well trained dogs are safer for drivers and walkers, less likely to interact with coyotes, and less likely to present a danger to other dogs and cats
Portuguese Bend residents who can speak to Anita’s excellent training programs and safety protocols are many, and that is just in this area. Anita also trains throughout RPV, Rolling Hills Estates, PVE, San Pedro, as well as other areas.
We hope that this letter gives you confidence that Anita’s program is a safe and positive one for those fortunate enough to train with her.
Thank you,
Portuguese Bend Pet Parents
