HOME | Handle with Care Dog Training

Positive reinforcement training enables dogs to learn beyond their natural instincts in a force-free environment.
By understanding and respecting their needs, the teaching process becomes more effective and enjoyable for both the dogs and their trainers.

Why have it any other way?

ABOUT MICHELLE

Michelle has dedicated her life to improving the lives of neglected and abused animals. She began her journey in 2001 at the SPCA in Los Angeles, where she received an award for her exceptional work in providing enrichment and attention to the dogs.

Years later, at the Humane Society in Salt Lake City, she taught volunteers how to work with shelter dogs and eventually added community classes for people wanting to train their own dogs.

In 2010, partnered with 2 other trainers, Michelle opened "Calling All Dogs," the first positive reinforcement training center in Salt Lake County.

Michelle Rizzi in a room with a dog sniffing her

Most recently, Michelle served as the Training and Behavior Manager at Woods Humane Society in San Luis Obispo for over 11 years. At Woods she focused on improving the behavior of challenging dogs to help them find loving homes. Her contributions have been honored with an Achievement Award and a Plaque displayed at the Woods University Training Center.

Respect dogs for their unique qualities, strive to be worthy of their unconditional love, and handle them with care.

SPCA Friends for Life 2001 Outstanding HEAL Volunteer award for Michelle Rizzi

ABOUT

ACCREDITATION

Preview "B.O.W.O.W. Training Technique" here

SERVICES

SERVICES OFFERED

IN-HOME TRAINING

CONVENIENCE

- Is there a concerning behavior

that only happens in the home?

- Is your dog uncomfortable or not social around other dogs or people?

- Or maybe you just want the convenience of training your dog

in the comfort of your own home.

$125 for one session ($110 in SLO)

$345 for 3 sessions ($300 in SLO)

$115/session after package

$100/session after package in SLO

DAY TRAINING

CONVENIENCE PLUS...

For busy dog owners, we offer the convenience of professional training in your home while you are at work or otherwise occupied.

I will come to your home during the week and train your dog for you!

Then we'll meet at the end of the week so I can show you what your dog has learned, and to "pass the baton" to you!

- $225/week multiple visits per week

- 3 week minimum required

This service is only offered in SLO

GROUP CLASSES

ECONOMICAL

Small group classes can be arranged as well.

Do you have multiple dogs in the home, or family, friends or neighbors who have dogs they would also like to train? Great!

"The more the merrier"

(Hourly rates apply

for up to four dogs.)

CLIENTS

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Chelsea Mills, CPDT-KA
Trainer and Behavioral Consultant

The changes that took place since you came to Woods speak volumes. Your loyalty, commitment, care, expertise, advocacy…the countless lives you’ve touched. And you had a great impact on the trajectory of my career. Thank you for helping me discover a purpose and vision in my life’s work with dogs."

Jami Relth, Dir of Development
Woods Humane Society

Michelle, you have been the rock and guiding force for Woods and helped so many animals including my own! Everything I know about training I learned from you… and Ollie is so grateful to you for helping us discover agility.

Denise Porte, D.V. M.

Michelle‘s passion for improving dogs’ lives calls on her skill, knowledge and vast experience. Her kind and compassionate training methods are enhanced by her uncanny intuition.

Dr. Amanda Hefner, Dir. of Veterinary Services
Woods Humane Society

Thank you does not seem to be enough to convey the difference you have made in the lives of so many people and animals

Julia Donatelli, Client

When we added our JRT Pepper to our family we didn’t know what a handful she would be. Thankfully you were there at Woods with these amazingly helpful classes to teach us how to help her. She has come so far and we will continue to use the techniques you have given us. Thank you so much.”

Paula Smith, Client

Took classes from her with both of my rescues. They turned out to be the best dogs ever. She made training look so easy! Thank you for all your kind service to animals.”