I sit here on my couch after doing my own morning training session with both dogs and I am in…read moretears. I cannot begin to explain the amount of relief from anxiety training my dogs with Ricky has brought me. No amount of therapy could touch how I felt previously. I have learned patience, clear communication (with my dogs), and appreciation of the minds ability to change after years and years of ingrained unwanted behaviors. Ricky does not sell a one size fits all package - each of my dogs are VERY different, and while the fundamental approaches and concepts in training are the same - the method and timing in which we applied and reinforced these were vastly different. Ricky is able to connect with two leggers and four leggers alike - he gives clear feedback to dogs and human and uses metaphors that we humans understand (driving the speed limit and getting speeding tickets haha) on how the concepts of his approach effects dog behavior. I couldn't be happier. I am humble and I know I need to continue management (and one of my dogs I am holding to higher standard so we are going to continue our own sessions based on what I have learned) but my dogs are completely different. I'm getting complimented by family, friends, and people on walks - impressed with how well behaved my dogs are. I smile and tell them "thank you it's lots of continued hard work" and move along. This morning in particular we walked during trash pick up, had lots of people distractions, and both dogs stayed heeled and attentive to me on their separate walks. Do not hesitate to consider Ricky for your training needs. Also, if you feel alone with your dogs behavior - please know you are anything but alone. The fact you are looking at reviews for dog trainers is a clear indicator that you want the best for your dog and intend to give them them best. :)

We have tried a lot of dog trainers. Ricky is fantastic…read more Apart from learning a lot at EPT, my dog now somehow seems a bit more mature, in a good way! Highly recommended.

We have an older Boston Terrier "Bruce" that we always felt was skittish around other dogs; thus we…read morealways found it challenging boarding him solo. After a Rover appointment canceled our Thanksgiving arrangements, we contacted Ruff Ranch in desperation. Ruff Ranch is located off the 154 just before Los Olivos. It's in a beautiful, ranch setting. While we needed to have a free trial stay first, we took half the day off on a Friday, dropped Bruce off and had a nice lunch in Solvang. The facilities are spacious and perfectly clean with zero odor. All the personnel were happy and friendly, as were the dogs. We were skeptical at first when they said they would put Bruce in a group with older, mellower dogs. When we returned, they said he did great and even made some friends. My wife and I were both shocked and pleased. Ruff Ranch was on our way to a Northern California Thanksgiving stay. He boarded for 3 nights and we included the pre-pickup bath. At pickup, he was happy, squeaky clean, nails trimmed with zero issues reported. We are thankful and relieved to have a place to board Bruce in the future with people that really know and love dogs - and it showed in our dog's demeanor at pickup. They also offer obedience training, which I believe is how they can so quickly tailor an optimal setting and experience for your dog, and get them adjusted and safe. Ruff Ranch even offers a shuttle pickup service from SB. We are very relieved that we have a reliable and comfortable boarding solution for our dog in the future; I can't recommend The Ruff Ranch enough.

I would NEVER consider leaving my dog here ever again. I let them know that my dog was allergic to…read morebees, and always gave them Benadryl, just in case. When I picked him up nothing was said to me; however, within an hour I knew something was wrong because of the way he was acting, and he showed the signs of being stung. I took him to an emergency vet, and, as expected, they advised he had an allergic reaction to "something, most likely a bee." He was treated and released the next day. After I took him in, I called Ruff Ranch, and they admittedly said they gave him Benadryl, but again, didn't bother to let me know. Completely negligent operation at Ruff Ranch as our dog could have died had I not been home with him or preoccupied and was not closely monitoring him.

We take our min pin here when we are unable to take him on certain trips. I first found this place…read morelast year. the staff is kind and everyone there seems to love what they do. They have everything there for your pet. The temperament test process was so simple, they offer vaccinations there if needed before your dogs stay, treats are available during their boarding time, pick up and drop offs are a breeze. You get photo updates of your dog while you're gone and they check in with any concerns. I've also brought my dog over there just for a day to play and they offer very reasonable prices for that too.

Left my dog here for five nights while on vacation. I love that this place does not keep dogs in…read morekennels all day and lets them socialize/play with other dogs. They would text me pictures every day and it was very obvious my dog was well cared for. Prior to the 5 night stay I took him here for 2 half days of doggy daycare to get used to it. Great small business. Will be bringing my dog here again in the future!