Announcing My Retirement and Heartfelt Thanks
Dear Clients, Veterinarians, and Colleagues,
After 30 rewarding years, I am announcing my retirement and the closure of Animal Manners, Inc. as of December 31, 2025. Working with you, your dogs, and your clients has truly been an honor.
Your trust allowed me to support your dog’s behavioral health, and I’ve treasured the opportunity to teach, witness, and help build lasting bonds through positive reinforcement. I am grateful for the memories, the stories of growth, and the relationships we’ve developed together.
Going forward, I will be available via email: woofnh@gmail.com, and the Animal Manners Facebook page will remain active for referrals to other positive trainers and behavior counselors in our area. To help ensure a smooth transition, I have also assembled a list of trusted local trainers. (list also available on the Resources page).
Thank you for your friendship and for allowing me to do such meaningful work. I wish you and your furry family members many joyful and adventurous years ahead.
Warmest regards,
Karen Gordon Betournay
Animal Manners, Inc.
Why Train Your Dog
- Training with Positive Reinforcement methods is effective and fun for you and your dog.
- Your dog learns useful vocabulary.
- It builds a foundation for solving future behavior problems.
- Your dog learns to respect and trust you as a leader and a friend.
- It builds communication and understanding between you and your dog.
- It helps your dog become predictable and more confident.
- You will want to take your well-behaved dog with you to more places.
- Positive Reinforcement teaching deepens the bond between you and your dog. The result is a more confident and predictable dog.
Choosing a Dog Trainer
To assure you and your dog the best results, look for:
- Membership in a national professional organization, such as the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT);
- Certification by a nationally-recognized organization, such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT);
- Adherence to a strict Code of Ethics CCPDT and Training and Behavior Practices Policy
- A phone conversation or meeting with the prospective trainer
- Read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s AVSAB how to choose a trainer
Programs: In-Home Solution
The In-Home Training Programs bring Karen to your home to instruct you how to teach your pet. In-home training allows pets and their people to get the individual attention necessary to learn at a rapid pace. Training is available as a 6-week Puppy Manners or Adult Manners course.
Private Consultation Packages are also available to cover any specific needs you and your dog may have that are not included as part of a Foundation level course.
All travel is limited to the Portsmouth, NH, area (within a 30-minute driving radius).