When asked about her training beliefs, Wilson noted that "dogs do exactly what they understand to do (but) when we help them understand better they behave better." By becoming increasingly tactful and effective with dogs and their masters, Wilson believes that the relationship is "not a battle or a conflict. . .not dominance or struggle. . .but an understanding of learning together."
Dog owners can still learn how to make their dogs lives more enjoyable no matter what age or temperament of the pet. According to Wilson, in what she terms "Space Games" - there are body language techniques that owners can use to "quickly, effectively and politely communicate with their dogs." She adds, "it's such a lovely way to teach - (it) feels like dancing, only you can have two left feet and still do it perfectly."
With the advent of social media, Wilson likes to keep current with the new tools available to her. She's come to realize that no one can live on just their laurels. Today, to allow her training, books and website to reach larger audiences, she notes that not only is social media the "wave of the future," it also reinforces ones credibility. "I realized a few years back that, connectivity trumps credentials. Wanted to make sure that my connectivity reflected and supported decades of credentials," she stated.
As viewed as a life-long learning path, Wilson believes a trainer's job is never done. With the "various ages/cultures/beliefs/expectations of people + a myriad of behavior issues + health issues that can impact behavior + constant changes in the field = lifelong learning for me." In wanting both the masters and their dogs to love training, they both need to learn together. However according to Wilson, there is a caveat: "the human needs to be 'all in.'"
Here's a testimonial from a "My Smart Puppy" advocate:
For more on Sarah Wilson and her book, check out her website, and become part of her ongoing forums. Or buy stock in her on Empire Avenue. I'd say she would make a very "smart investment."