About
Playing Fur Keeps is a certified dog training service in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area.
Casey DeKam, owner and trainer, is an Animal Behavior College graduate holding seven certifications, including specialized certification in shelter and rescue dog training. PFK provides safe, effective and gentle training for dogs of all breeds and ages, with a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement, clear communication and the development of a trusting relationship between dogs and their people.
Playing Fur Keeps utilizes a reinforcement based, fear free approach to training. Positive reinforcement is always the first choice when teaching and strengthening wanted behaviors. When addressing unwanted behaviors, PFK believes in clear boundaries and consistent, appropriate consequences, beginning with redirection and, when applicable, the loss of a desired resource such as attention, play, food or forward movement.
PFK does not believe that fear or pain should be used to create behavior change. When additional guidance is necessary, interventions are selected with careful consideration of the individual dog and their emotional response.
A dog that “listens” out of fear of consequence will never be a confident and well-bonded dog.
