this is what Billys behaviourist said about her experiences with Barkbusters. She has given me permission to post this if it's ok:-
So many you would not believe. They are usually Cockers or Retrievers displaying aggression. Their advice is so appalling the dogs are often traumatised and little can be done by the time I see them. It usually involves repeatedly throwing choke chains at the dog because naturally the problem revolves around dominance!
A few years ago it used to be £175 and £15 for each additional pet; be it cat bird or rabbit and plus mileage as well. They 'guaranteed' to resolve the problem on the first visit, but they promised you a lifetime guarantee anyway. If they fixed the problem first time, why would you need a lifetime guarantee?
Apparently, it's now £200 plus mileage for a 12 month guarantee. Its £500 plus if you want the lifetime guarantee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am dealing with a lady now that opted for the cheaper option. Each time she 'phoned they said keep following the plan and ring again in a month. Needless to say they strung it out for 12 months and said she would have to pay again if she wanted them back.
She has a gorgeous Great Dane who was barking at other dogs because he was nervous. Now he barks at anything and has been aggressive to the owner as well. When I called two weeks ago everywhere you looked there was metal dishes containing a choke chain. She was told that it was all down to dominance and everytime he did something she did not want she had to launch a choke chain in his direction, hitting the dish (and sometimes him) so as to make more noise. She also had to shout but in a very deep voice. When they took the dog outside the home he was bombarded with water filled bags if he barked.
That is about the sum total of their advice, the dog is worse and the owner is a nervous wreck. Amassing as it seems this dog has not thankfully flipped as many do so I have great hopes but the owner has an awful lot of work to do. Plus the fact she feels so guilty at what she has put her dog through so she is working hard to rebuild their relationship. She is a lovely lady and my heart goes out to her and the dog of course. Apart from the breed, this case is typical of what they do.
Oh I didn't mention. It was originally an Australian company that expand over here as a franchise, business opportunity! You pay them a franchise fee, go on a short course and then you are a 'proper behaiourist' with a company vehicle! Sadly, owners don't check up on qualifications, experience or if someone belongs to a recognised body. Its like everything, its 'buyer beware' I'm afraid. They don't have to disclose its up to you to find out.
