To Whom It May Concern:

I fell in love with Elsa the moment I saw her on the Northern California German Shepherd Rescue website on November 22, 2007. Afterwards I could not get her off my mind and despite everything, wanted to have her join our family. My husband and I adopted our five year old female German Shepherd on November 25, 2007. We were warned Elsa was not the dog park type which we accepted and understood. Elsa was pretty much a perfect dog for us. But as many of you may well know, all dogs require exercise and Elsa was no exception. Although we knew dog parks were out of the question, I did not think walking in the park was. We also knew that as a rescue dog (at least three owners and two stints in rescues/shelters for our girl), Elsa might have some issues surface.

Elsa is what many may describe as the typical Alpha female. Anything which challenges her, she challenges back and then some. I often found, and still find, people saying, “well, my dog is friendly…” when I tell them Elsa is not fond of other dogs. It doesn’t matter what their dog is like Elsa will see them as a threat if challenged and acts accordingly. I realized I needed to do something when on one of our evening walks, Elsa, launched herself through the air (while her leash was attached to my belt) and tried to go after another dog who was naïve enough to challenge her. I caught her in mid-air and took control of the situation. After that , I called Donna.

After one lesson Elsa was not trying to go after other dogs while on leash. After two private lessons, Donna, said we were ready for group lessons. I am amazed at how quickly Elsa learned. Donna is clearly committed and passionate about her work. She demonstrates a vas and broad knowledge of dogs and is very capable of handling dogs of any breed. Donna’s abilities with dogs are demonstrated every time we have gone to training. Every new task asked of handler and dog has been demonstrated by Donna and one of her own dogs.

Donna’s and her dogs are phenomenal. I was someone who once dreaded walking my dog to someone who looks forward to spending the afternoon in the park with my dog. I highly recommend Donna as she extends her knowledge not to just the dogs and people, but does so in a very calm environment and manner.

Robin & Carson Busher