We adopted Rusty from the Providence Animal Rescue League and after about….A DAY!…we were looking at each other and wondering how in the world we were going to manage this affectionate, lovable, 70 pounder, dog aggressive, American Pit Bull Terrier. Rusty was two years old when we adopted him and it was evident that he knew no commands and had no discipline. One of our major concerns was that I (Jasmine) was not able to walk him due to his pulling and his reaction toward some dogs. Rusty did not even allow basic procedures at the vet’s office after which the vet suggested we seek a trainer to work with Rusty and us. The vet recommended Jeff Gellman. Jeff worked with us on sit, stay, place, heel, here and walking, among other things. Rusty has learned some of his commands in English, Spanish, and Italian, which keeps him interested and constructively occupied learning new things. Basically, after working with Jeff we feel that we can train Rusty to do just about anything. I am increasingly able to walk him, rather than Rusty walking me. While he continues to express some aggressive instincts toward some dogs, he is better able to stay in control and within our command. Jeff’s approach to dog training is simultaneously loving and firm, which not only helped Rusty take to it right away, but allowed us to be successful implementing the techniques. Rusty is motivated to behave, not to the sound of a clicker or food, but because he values our relationship and wants to please us. In return, what Jeff has taught us allows us to return his love and affection by providing him with structure. In other words, we show Rusty what we expect from him, sometimes with a correction (not punishment) and lots of praise and love, which allows him to be a successful and confident dog. The bottom line for us is that American Pit Bull Terriers have an undeserved bad reputation, thus we want to show all others that any dog will respond based on the way they are trained (or not). When people see Rusty we want them to see what a wonderful well behaved dog he is, and maybe this way, we can help dispel the stereotype. Paul and Jasmine Providence RI