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Humane Help to Last a Lifetime
Giving up is the birth of regret.
-Deshauna Barber
TFDP's Fear Abatement Mastery (FAM) program is the most humane, comprehensive program for traumatized & fearful dogs.
Begun in 2014, the program is available nationally & in some countries.
The FAM program offers powerful opportunities for those who are serious about achieving the most humane & effective skills to help fearful, traumatized, feralized, and other disadvantaged dogs. Created by our founder, the FAM program relies on an enduring Dog Centric Attitude to go along with the expertise gained in the program. After all, what good is fearful dog expertise if it isn't focused on the dog?
The FAM program is designed to provide not just information, but transformation.
The beginner's program is those not seeking certification, such as private dog owners in need of help.
The Advanced program is for those seeking certification, including professional trainers and behavior consultants, veterinary staff, shelter staff and volunteers, and more.
Beginner's Program (for dog guardians)
Private, one to one lessons via live video conference, designed specifically for your needs and goals.
Investment: Varies. Contact us to inquire.
"My wish is that more people get to know about the [Fearful Dogs] Project, because I think that both dog owners and doggies would benefit. I just feel lucky that I had time to research carefully, and did not go with the first "trainer" that I found in my area."
- Liliana Blanco
When resources allow, we offer low income seniors and other disadvantaged individuals partial scholarships for beginners. In addition, the Amy Holman Scholarship Fund offers at least one full beginner's scholarship per year. Qualified persons may apply here.
Advanced Program - Certification Track (private mentorship & vetting)
The advanced program is the path to gaining fear abatement & prevention expertise
by becoming one of the select few Certified Canine Fear Abatement Experts (CCFAE).
The advanced certification program enrolls on an as-accepted basis. Space is limited. Apply here.
"The program is very well organized and structured to help you grasp the concepts and put them into practice. I love the hands on aspect working with a dog, because every dog is unique and works at their own pace, but you get the advantage of seeing and experiencing the changes in the dog’s emotional state while working through each step. Everything is laid out in small increments to help you and the dog achieve." - Reanna Ali
"Less than two years ago I signed up for training with Rain Jordan and the Fearful Dogs Project at the shelter where I volunteer as a foster mom. I had previously worked with fearful dogs, but the knowledge I gained from the program was incredibly helpful and logical. Part of the program was working with a dog in my home with individual and specific guidance. I can honestly say my skills were greatly improved. In fact, I now focus almost exclusively on the most needy in the shelter. My passion was definitely expanded by Rain’s expertise and training techniques. I will be forever grateful for her passion and abilities." - Janet Richardson
FAQ:
I’m not a professional trainer or animal worker. Is there a program appropriate for me?
Yes! Because there are very few opportunities for serious, comprehensive learning about fearful dogs, we feel it is important to include everyone who has or might someday have contact with a disadvantaged dog. The beginning program is open to all.
I'm seeking a professional trainer, or I am a professional trainer. What makes TFDP's offerings better than other programs?
There are very few experts in extreme fear abatement and trauma recovery in dogs. While a wealthy corporation might purport to give you what you want easier and cheaper, there are reasons for that: lack of rigor, lack of breadth and depth, lack of committment to anti-aversives practices, etc., "Certified" should always signal that the certificant earned their title through much more than viewing a simple, pre-recorded webinar style course online.
With TFDP, pet parents know they are getting the most humane, comprehensive, and personal guidance while pet professionals and their clients know that their chosen pro has studied carefully, worked hard for, and proven their expertise -- and therefore unequivocally earned their title. The "Certified Canine Fear Abatement Expert" title awarded by The Fearful Dogs Project denotes something valuable and crucial: A humane professional who can provide solid expertise gained by serious study directly under the guidance of an expert mentor, through months of rigorous, one on one instruction, coaching, and supervision, and by passing, with an A grade, a host of observed, written, and oral examinations.
Are there in-person options?
Pre-COVID, physical in-person programs were available. As of March 2020, physical in-person has been paused. Instead, in-person live video-conference options are in place. We will begin physical in-person options again once there is no health threat.
Is there a payment plan?
Currently we are not able to offer payment plans.
TFDP programs are taught by canine fear abatement expert Rain Jordan, CBCC-KA, KPA CTP, CPDT-KA, for The Fearful Dogs Project.
Have a question? Email us.
What We Do
The Fearful Dogs Project offers a comprehensive program of learning in order to equip you to best help traumatized and fearful dogs, including feral dogs, puppy mill survivors, and others. We cover the philosophy that underlies the program, as well as theory and activities that comprise the best practices for working or living with this population of dogs.
Who the Program is For
While our first priority is on non-animal professional, private pet parents, pet professionals, including canine behavior consultants, dog trainers, veterinary staff, rescue, sanctuary, & shelter staff, fosterers & other volunteers, groomers, dog daycare owners, boarders or sitters, pet store staff, animal welfare & protection organizations, delivery workers, animal control officers, police officers, etc., are also welcome.