Hi Reader,

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I'm bursting with excitement to share some incredible news with you today! After a year and a half of intense study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I've officially completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program.

I am now a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner!

This journey has been challenging, rewarding, and occasionally overwhelming. There were moments when I honestly wasn't sure if I could finish this rigorous program while managing my farm, business, and family obligations. I even had to skip an entire kidding season in 2024 to make time for my studies!

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The final workshop was especially challenging. My training partner, Luna, who is normally confident and friendly at home, became terrified in the public training environment. Despite our best preparation, when it came time for our final assessment, Luna became overwhelmed by the industrial noises around the training center and was unable to complete the 10-behavior chain we had practiced so diligently.

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I was heartbroken but determined. After returning home, life quickly took over again. Honestly, I was afraid to try again, worried I might fail. But as the deadline approached, I finally scheduled our reassessment via Zoom from the comfort of home. And guess what? We passed with flying colors—with a score of 98!

What does this mean for Prancing Pony Farm and you?

• I can now proudly say that Prancing Pony Farm Maremma Sheepdogs are professionally trained using science-based positive reinforcement methods.
• Our Maremma puppy clients receive lifetime professional training support - something no other Maremma breeder can offer.
• I'm developing my own unique, comprehensive puppy curriculum combining livestock socialization with all the benefits of positive reinforcement-based puppy training and socialization methods.
• I'll be expanding my online coaching services for people with Livestock Guardian Dogs of all breeds, regardless of where they acquired their dogs.
• I'm developing digital courses and memberships for LGDs, which will be included in the price of our puppies.

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​Read more about my KPA certification journey in this blog post.​

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This certification is just the beginning. I'm enrolled in several other courses to continue expanding my knowledge and skills as an LGD breeder and trainer.

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One of the main reasons I pursued this certification was to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how intimidating they might seem. We can accomplish much more than we initially thought possible, but only if we're brave enough to try.

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Is there something you've been dreaming of doing? A skill you want to learn? A goal that seems just out of reach? I hope my journey encourages you to take that first step. You might struggle or even fail at first, but the journey itself is worth it.

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Thank you for being part of my journey. I can't wait to share all the exciting new developments at Prancing Pony Farm as I put my certification to work!

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With gratitude and excitement,

Kim Crawmer, KPA CTP

Prancing Pony Farm

P.S. If you have a Livestock Guardian Dog that needs training support, reach out! I'm now professionally equipped to help, whether your dog came from Prancing Pony Farm or elsewhere. See my listing on the Karen Pryor Academy Find a Trainer Directory Page for more info.

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20227 Fremont Ave, Lemoore, CA 93245
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