Becoming a rock star dog handler training program - new to motley zoo!
A Different Kind of training program for dogs
Becoming a Rock Star Dog Handler isn’t just about teaching dogs to sit and stay. It’s about teaching people how to lead, communicate and engage with their dogs to support safer, more humane communities- and making it affordable for all.
The ongoing training series focuses on:
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Clear communication and timing
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Leash handling and impulse control
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Reading canine body language
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Building confidence in both dog and handler
Participants learn how to become more capable leaders - the kind dogs naturally look to for guidance.
“We believe confident handlers create safe, confident dogs,” said Jme Thomas, Executive Director of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue.
"When people understand how to communicate with their dogs - and most importantly, their role in what isn’t working - behavior issues decrease, surrenders and returns drop, and lives are saved. Not only do their relationships become transformational, but as a result, dogs will stay in their homes longer. “Forever” is possible with the right support!”
Executive Director Jme Thomas shown backstage at one of the many concerts at White River Amphitheatre Motley Zoo is invited to each year!
Prevention is Powerful
The training program plays a critical role in Motley Zoo’s broader mission to reduce shelter intake and prevent owner surrenders.
The ongoing, unprecedented crisis in animal welfare requires new ideas and strategies to manage. Catching animals at the end of the pipeline is simply not making the life-saving impact it used to. Motley Zoo has determined more focus upstream - before the animals enter the system- is required to significantly impact the number of animals at risk of unnecessary homelessness and euthanization.
By equipping owners with tools before problems escalate, the organization helps keep dogs in homes and strengthens the human-animal bond.
Open to the Community
While designed with rescue in mind, the class is also open to all dog owners who want to elevate their handling skills and have a more enjoyable and effective relationship with their dog.
This series is beneficial for those who:
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Recently adopted / acquired a dog
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Are struggling with manners
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Want effective communication without frustration
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Are preparing to foster or have a foster dog
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Or simply wants to deepen their connection with and understanding of their dog
Motley Zoo also recognizes that while many people would love to be able to find and afford the training they need, most people don’t know where to begin - or simply cannot afford it.
Support for the System and Other Organizations
As a priority, Motley Zoo has run a thriving, strong training and rehabilitation program for seventeen years- but this is just not possible for many organizations.
Focus is often on immediate, life-saving veterinary care - and training is considered more of a luxury. Both parts are critical - and Motley Zoo has tackled both sides.
However, when dogs are most often being given up for behavioral reasons, Motley Zoo realized their training program is a strength they could share with others. Jme realized the overall impact of training would be far greater if other organizations could participate alongside Motley Zoo’s clients and crew.
By inviting staff, volunteers and foster families, adopters and potential surrenderers from other organizations, Motley Zoo can share their “superpower,” positively affecting dozens of animals- and people- for every dog they have in care. As rescue is not just about animals, increasing the skills and capacity of the humans at any organization will also strengthen the organization individually - and the system as a whole.
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Foster families and volunteers receive structured support.
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Rescue dogs benefit from early intervention training.
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Community members considering adoption can “brush up” before bringing a dog home.
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Attendees may meet adoptable dogs participating in class demonstrations.
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Provides an opportunity for natural recruitment for foster and volunteer roles throughout the community.
It’s training, crisis prevention, and community-building all in one!
Why "Rock Star?"
Because great dog handling isn’t about dominance or force - it’s about skill and artistry that anyone can learn. This series is about helping each become their most capable within their own domain - which in turn makes for safer, healthier and more humane communities.
We support people to have the confidence so they don’t just manage behavior - they transform it!
Becoming a Rock Star Dog Handler classes are currently underway in a “tour” of towns and neighborhoods. Upcoming sessions and registration information can be found on our events page, as we get the updated details! Rock on, Rescue on!
Tom is the skilled trainer behind Motley Zoo’s mission to bring better dog handling to the community- helping build rock star dog handlers capable of making an impact with their dogs…and in the rescue world!
Tom has unparalleled experience with every type of dog training and methodology out there- and has spent many years crafting the best strategy to help improve your communication and capacity with any dog you meet.
While the “Becoming a Rock Star Handler” series is not designed for serious behavior cases or aggression, we believe he can turn around any dog he meets…and transform their handlers into the rock star guardians dogs need to thrive.
Contact Tom for more about his private sessions or board & train to see how he can change your life - and the life of your dog!
TM Dog Training: tmdogtraining.online
Meet our Rock Star Trainer, Tom Murawski