A BIT OF HISTORY. Possum Hollow Canine Services opened unofficially in 1995 when owner Vicki Hughes accepted her first dog for professional training.   Through Possum Hollow Enterprises, Vicki and Joe Hughes' combination cattle and dog facility, the PHCS developed into a full service training facility. 

TRAINING PHILOSOPHY.  Our training methods are patterned after theRainandSam.jpg (104660 bytes) Natural Order Training methods developed by Vicki Hughes.  This method is based upon the natural interactions and methods of communication between adult dogs with pups and adult dogs with each other.  We are kind but firm in our training requirements.  We encourage the participation of owners in the development of their dog's new behavior patterns.  We use non-abusive correction techniques (no hitting, etc.) and we do not train using treats or toys.

OUR STAFF.  All of our staff including trainers and maintenance personnel are carefully taught how to appropriate handle and interact with the dogs we are training.  Trainers complete several months of instruction and hands-on practice with a Master Trainer before obtaining their first solo canine assignment.  While each of our trainers provides special characteristics that allow us to service a wide variety of canine personalities, they also are required to use the same basic techniques approved by Possum Hollow.  All of our trainers are professionals and enjoy training.

LOCATION.  PHCS is located in the hills of western North Carolina about 1/2 way between Asheville and Charlotte.  Nestled among rolling hills andphfpicnictable.jpg (22477 bytes) woodlands along a small country road, PHCS presents a peaceful down-home atmosphere in which to develop the talents and skills of a variety of dogs. 

FACILITIES.  The facilities include a remodeled barn which houses visiting dogs, multiple exercise yards in a variety of sizes, a small outdoor arena, a round pen, a double round pen, a square pen, a five-acre pasture and a 20-acre pasture.  Several smaller pastures are scattered throughout allowing for separation of dogs and livestock.  Trails lead through the cattle pasture to a small wooded creek.  Covered grassy areas and a big front porch provide for ample shade when resting.  Large shade trees cover the main yard and barn yard allowing a place to relax and enjoy a comforting breeze.

HOUSE-CALL SERVICES.  We offer dog obedience and canine behavior consultation at your home.  Please select the "Dog Obedience" button on the side bar menu for more information.

 

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