Beyond the Screen: The Power of Real-Life Learning in Dog Training

Yesterday marked the end of our (PACT's) 2024 run of in-person fieldwork days. These are days when our students get together, in person, for four days of practical training, coaching, confidence building and ALL OUT dog geekery. These days are always a highlight of our year and truly something special!

When we took over PACT in 2021 we set out with a grand vision of making the dog training world better through the appreciation of canine behaviour, emphasis on practical skills, supporting instructors with their emotional, physical and mental wellbeing AND helping form vital connections within our professional community for the overall benefit of both ends of the lead. As our course was part online and part in-person, we knew that getting the "in person" part of puzzle right was going to be key to the success of our vision.

We have all worked really hard on trying to get the balance right with fieldwork. We thought this would be a big challenge as we have students who are brand new to dog training as well as others with a plethora of experience, all at different levels. What we have discovered, however, is truly wonderful.

Sure, we put a huge emphasis on building your practical dog training skills and confidence but it's the camaraderie and community that leaves the biggest impression on us. We lift each other up, tackle difficult topics, delve deep into canine conundrums and laugh together at the stories we have from our experiences with the dogs in our lives.

As you walk around the space talking with everyone, hearing their stories of what its like to work in this industry, how they started, their dreams for the future, how they feel and what brought them to the journey of becoming a dog trainer, you began to realise that these in person events provide MUCH more than what we set out to achieve. They provide a very real and meaningful way that we can all CONNECT. A way we can all realise we aren't alone. A way we can share stories, laughter and even some tears that will ultimately make us better and stronger. A reason to make new firends and for virtual friends to hug for the first time ever. A way we can challenge ourselves in an environment where everyone is willing you success. A way we can recharge and forge forward with a rejuvenation for our passion.

We could not be more proud today of our wonderful team and all the students who came to help make this dream a reality.

Absolutely BUZZING!