“Guaranteed results”, “done in 30 days”, promises to “fix” your dog.
Sounding sure is persuasive, and boy, oh, boy. Some people have gotten very good at it.
In this episode, Emily and Ellen talk guarantees in behavior work, promises of outcomes, and the type of certainty that is a big ol’ red flag, not a signal of competence.
But don’t worry! It’s not all doom and gloom. Emily and Ellen also share what a good pro says instead, like “I don’t know yet; here’s how we’ll find out,” so you’ll know what to listen for when you’re looking for someone who works with you and your pet, without shame.
TLDL (too long, didn’t listen): 3 Key Takeaways
1️⃣ Certainty sells, but it’s not a credential – Behavior is complicated and your pet isn’t a formula, so nobody can honestly guarantee an outcome. “I don’t know yet” is a good sign.
2️⃣ The red flags – Guaranteed timelines, talk of “fixing” your pet, science words that don’t match what they’re actually doing, and blaming you or your dog when it stalls.
3️⃣ The green flags – A plan B (and C, D, E, F), a clear point where they’d change course, and someone you’d want around when you’re crying in your bathroom over your dog.
For the full episode show notes, including the resources mentioned in this episode, go here.
Amazon Affiliate Storefront
Find products we recommend at the Pet Harmony Amazon Storefront.
As an Amazon Associate, Pet Harmony earns from qualifying purchases.
More from Pet Harmony
Pet Parents: enrichment ideas and practical behavior tips
📸 Instagram & Facebook: @petharmonytraining
Pet Pros: relatable moments and support for your work with pets and their people
📸 Instagram & TikTok: @petharmonypro
📬 Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://petharmonytraining.com/join/
Subscribe & Review
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe and review. It helps more pet parents and pros find us. Thanks for being here! 💛
