Right Track Canines

Customized, Professional Dog Training

Set your dog up for success by getting on the Right Track!

At Right Track Canines, my primary goal is to set you and your dog up for success by getting you on the right track. I create custom training plans for dog and owner focusing on clear communication, fair expectations, and bringing out your dog's potential.

Essentially, my first course of action utilizes reward-based training for a least-invasive, minimally-aversive method (as well as longer-lasting results) which improves the dog's motivation and the relationship between dog and handler. I also understand that not every dog responds to the same training method which is why my training plans are custom to ensure I can find what tools and methods work best for each individual dog- and handler!

I currently service Delaware County, Pennsylvania, as well as the surrounding areas. Offering obedience training, service dog training, board and trains, behavior modification, puppy training, pet care, and more. 
About image
 

Standard Dog Training

Private lessons. Training for the everyday dog.

Learn More
 

Service Dog Program

Guidance, training, graduation, and more.

Learn More
 

Board and Train

Uninterrupted training camp for your dog while boarding with me.

Learn More
 

Pet Care

Care options for your pet.

Learn More
 

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous training options and extra services.

Learn More
 

Online Training Program

A yearly subscription offer for those who are long-distance clients. Currently in its testing phase.

Learn More
 

Group Classes

Under Construction.

Learn More

Custom Training for You and Your Dog

Affordable Training and Pet Care

Set both you and your dog up for success today by getting on the Right Track!

Custom Training for You and Your Dog

Sarah Shelanski

Owner & Head Trainer

For the past six years, I have been gaining experience in order to reach my goal of becoming a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with a focus on working dogs. My past has included working as a dog trainer at multiple facilities, completing well-known dog training courses, completing internships, attending workshops and seminars, volunteering as a K9 SAR handler, competing with my dog in multiple sports, as well as gaining specified handling skills and knowledge in the world of canine training and behavior.

Read More  

Lux

Lesson Dog

Lux is my personal dog. She is a 4-year-old German Shepherd and is a lesson dog for Right Track Canines. On her days off she is training as a SAR and competition dog.

Read More  

Jasmine

Lesson Dog

Jasmine is an 9-year-old Shepherd mix. She is a retired service dog, trick/stunt dog, and lesson dog.

Read More  

IACP Associate Member

International Association of Canine Professionals.

AKC CGC Evaluator

Can administer the following tests: AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Advanced Canine Good Citizen (CGCA), Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU), Virtual Home Manners, and Trick Dog.

Certified Trick Dog Instructor

Do More With Your Dog!

Canine Conditioning Fitness Coach

Do More With Your Dog!

E-Collar Tech. Dealer

E-Collar Technologies, Inc.

While I can guarantee results, I can not always guarantee the results that are expected (expectation and reality don’t always go hand-in-hand when it comes to dog training). Not every method or trainer will work for every client or dog. However, I will do the best we can to find a plan that works for you and your dog.

Additionally, there are multiple variables at play when it comes to training dogs such as skill, knowledge, time, expectations, commitment, management, lifestyle, etc... There is a responsibility on both the trainer and owner(s), so there need a balance of sorts. Teamwork makes the dream work!
It depends.

For board and trains, yes.

For private sessions it is a case-by-case basis. I will take some out of state clients if travel by car is possible, but long distance clients may need to refer to our Online Training Program.
I utilize reward-based training with every dog I train. Occasionally I use other training tools along the way to help proof training, but still rely on using reward-based training approaches first and foremost to shape a motivated learner and to create clarity for the dog before anything else. I believe this is a more humane and realistic approach to dog training.



Uninterrupted training and management on the trainer's part ensures quality learning and improvement. I build up your dog's foundations and consistency so that all you have to do is upkeep the training. Like all training, I help teach you how to train and maintain your own dog. 

It is also important to realize that in many cases a board and train may require lifestyle changes on your part as well as consistent follow through of said training. 
Requirements for a B&T are listed in the Board and Train section under the Services tab. On your part, there is no preparation needed besides communication, supplying necessities (food, gear, treats, etc...), and ensuring the requirements for the program are met.

Additional requirements:
- Dogs must be potty trained
- Crate trained (started)
- UTD on age-appropriate vaccines
- UTD on preventatives
- Vet form signed
- Board and train document signed
- Dog must be licensed
Of course!

Whether you're looking for a pet, sport, or working dog, I will gladly help find your match! You can contact me for additional information, or set up a consultation today.
I do not offer specialized training for emotional support animals as they do not require formal training as a service animal would.

However, I do have an E.S.A. Flight Prep Session available for any E.S.A. handler who would like to prepare for airline travel.

E.S.A.s are protected under the Air Carrier's Access Act and therefore are permitted to travel in the cabin of aircrafts with their handlers.

Edit: Since 2021, airlines are no longer required to grant E.S.A.s access into aircrafts. Please refer to your individual airline’s policies and requirements to see if restrictions are in place.
"Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.  The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability."

Source: https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html
Currently, I provide training for psychiatric, mobility, medical response, autism, and PTSD service dogs.

I train certain types of medical alert dogs as well, on a case-by-case basis.

I currently do not train full guide, hearing, seizure or allergen alert dogs, but may train some guide, hearing and/or alert-related tasks if applicable.
Currently, I do not place fully trained service dogs. This is a service that may become available in the far future.

I may occasionally have started service dogs available instead, whether they are puppies that have been raised in our Service Dog Program or young dogs that have been started in our Service Dog Program.

As they become available, there will be a public page added with information regarding these dogs, their training, and potential placement/purchase.
No, I cannot. There is no federally recognized registry for service animals or E.S.A.s in the U.S., nor is it legally required.

At Right Track Canines, I believe that these terms and the use of such "proof" continue to make it harder on service dog handlers across the country by spreading misinformation and creating false expectations for other handlers.

Graduates from our Service Dog Program will receive a Certificate of Completion, however, this is not to be used as proof or an "official document" that the dog is a service animal. It is just to signal the dog has completed our program, just like any other program completion.

"Covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry.
There are individuals and organizations that sell service animal certification or registration documents online. These documents do not convey any rights under the ADA and the Department of Justice does not recognize them as proof that the dog is a service animal."

Source: https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html
Short Explanation:

Service Dog - Individually trained to assist their disabled handler

Emotional Support Animal (E.S.A.) - Provides emotional support for their handler

Therapy Dog - Provides comfort to multiple people

Here is a helpful infographic:

Once your service dog graduates from our program, you will receive a program patch (or vest) to signify your team's new status and affiliation, and a certificate of completion from the program.

You will also receive lifelong assistance and support. Check-ins are expected as I like to keep tabs on how our teams are doing.

I do strive for annual re-testing and certification for our teams after graduation. Touch-up sessions are offered as needed. 
Yes!

I offer a service dog consultation session which goes over every aspect a handler needs to know, as well as answer any questions they might have. Whether you're just beginning your journey or nearing the end, I'll be there to help you along the way.
  • Delaware County, PA, USA