I am writing to express my gratitude to Suzette for changing my life. I have 2 large breed rescues, both abused/neglected, that presented with stranger anxiety and fear (particularly of men). While very well behaved in the house, at day care, and with those they love, they were becoming impossible to walk. Over time, I could no longer walk them together, and I had to avoid neighbors and their dogs, even at a great distance.

The anxiety escalated to the point that we couldn't have people over unless female, someone they knew, etc. While I was well-intentioned, and put them in another room while repairmen were in the house, this only exacerbated the problem.

Having had enough, I started to reach out to trainers. At least 2 never responded to me, and one wanted proof of behavior on videotape before she would accept us as clients. I found V.I.T.O. and spoke with Suzette. She listened, she cared, she came over for a consultation, and she gave me the tools (commands) to take back control and walk the boys.

Every day, we practiced...we walked past people and dogs, closer and closer. We had people come to the gate in front of the house, closer and closer. My confidence soared and I called Suzette…I told her that I was ready to try working on bringing people in the house. She came back with a "stranger" to the boys. I was given more tools and tips, and I received more confidence-building.

Next, I asked someone that my dog almost attacked to come back (not his fault to be honest as the person rushed the greeting and went to pet my dog's head while in an anxious state); he agreed. Using all the advice and training techniques, I practiced my new mantra, "my house-my rules." In minutes my dogs sat by the couch, taking treats from this man's hand.

We have made steady progress, and in a very short time (less than 2 weeks--with actual results noticeable on day 1). Suzette gave me a gift, and I am having fun with the continued training, and watching my dogs enjoy life. I am enjoying life fully with them. We still have work to do, but I am in control, the fear is no longer traveling through the leash, and "I've got this!!!"

Thank you, Suzette!!!