Our Approach to Behavior

Our training programs teach essential life skills for dogs, focusing on basic obedience training, socialization, and interactive playgroups with diverse dog breeds. Through a combination of enrichment activities, group classes, and one-on-one training sessions, we equip dogs with the necessary skills to thrive in their forever homes.

Our commitment to enhancing the lives of rescue dogs includes teaching vital social skills and providing a variety of experiences that prepare them for their new families. At Three Little Pitties Rescue, we believe that every dog deserves the chance to form meaningful connections and lead a fulfilling life in a loving home.

Playgroups

Our playgroups, which can include up to 15-20 dogs, are held 3-5 times a day and feature a mix of breeds and play styles. From rough and rowdy to gentle and dainty, our playgroups provide essential socialization and exercise.

Special Programs

Fancy Footwork: Open to fosters and the public, sign up through our SignUp Genius.

Behavior Assessments: Request detailed assessments for dogs across the county to better understand their needs and potential.

Training Videos

Coming soon: Tools to support your dog's development. Topics like Leash Training, Kennel Routine, How to Correct Barrier Reactivity, Dog to Dog Introductions, Decompression and Resource Guarding Techniques.

Meet the Team

Olga

Director of Behavior & Intake

A cornerstone of our behavior team since the beginning, Olga has eight years of experience in dog behavior modification. Her deep understanding of canine behavior helps us tackle a wide range of challenges and tailor our approach to each individual dog.

Angel

Canine Coach

With nearly a year of experience and three years in dog training, Angel is a valuable member of our team and a canine coach. Her focus on balanced training helps our dogs adapt and thrive in their new environments.

Armando

Dog Trainer

Armando is a skilled dog trainer with 10 years of experience, including a role as a trainer at the SPCA. With a year and a half at our rescue, he brings a wealth of knowledge in dog training and behavior modification to help our dogs succeed.

Chelsey

Lead Behavior Assistant

With three years as our Lead Behavior Assistant, Chelsey began her journey with us as a kennel tech. Her hands-on experience and dedication make her a vital part of our behavior team, working closely with dogs to address their needs and support their development.

Isabelle

Canine Coach

Certified through the Animal Behavior College, Isabelle brings a wealth of experience from various shelters, including Leek City Animal Shelter, where she managed playgroups. As a new canine coach, she focuses on creating positive interactions and enriching environments for our rescue pets.

Success Stories

Mr. Gobbles

Mr. Gobbles came to us from a tragic past. His owner had passed away in a hoarding situation, leaving him terrified, reactive, and wary of human touch. He fiercely guarded his toys and feared the leash, often reacting defensively. Months of patient training helped him open up—he began to share his toys, accepted the harness, and even started enjoying walks. Today, Mr. Gobbles is a happy, confident companion, now in his forever home with Lauren Lowe, a foster and volunteer. Just before our move to Rustic, we implemented playgroups and volunteer programs, supporting transformations like his, who went from timid to joyful and confident. Our mission focuses on preparing dogs to thrive in loving homes by building their confidence and teaching essential life skills—a unique approach in the rescue community.

Emori Dove

Emori Dove, originally named Negrita, was found abandoned with her puppies at a construction site. Rescuer Debra Valles cared for them and covered initial vetting costs, including Emori's spay. Though unsocialized, Emori showed great potential with people.

At Rustic, she initially needed a muzzle for playgroup interactions, but with gradual introductions to calmer dogs, she gained confidence. By January, Emori was successfully meeting other dogs and learning to interact appropriately.

She became an exemplary dog, assisting with assessments and helping others build confidence. Emori ultimately transitioned from needing a muzzle to being adopted into a loving home in Canada, showcasing her remarkable transformation and representing her breed beautifully.

Hicks Litter

Jimmy discovered a litter of six shepherd puppies on his property and brought them to us at four months old. Initially feral and unable to be touched or around other dogs, we emphasized the need for a partnership in their rehabilitation. Committed to their success, Jimmy attended playgroups, rotated the puppies for socialization, and ensured they received all necessary medical care.

Our behavior team tailored individual plans to address each pup’s unique needs. With Jimmy's dedication, all six puppies made remarkable progress and were adopted within six months. The last two, Sam Mae and Bruno, found a forever home together. This journey highlights the power of teamwork and dedication in transforming these once-feral puppies into beloved family members, ready for a bright future.