To Whom It May Concern,
When we first met Roman Gottfried we had no way of knowing just how big his impact would be on our staff and the pets in our care. His arrival in Southern Oregon could not have come at a better time for our employees as they struggled with challenging dog behaviors resulting in longer than normal stays at our facility. While traveling the country and helping shelters, he stopped with his wife Barbara Buck and was looking for a new home in the Grants Pass, Oregon area. During the search he gave freely and generously his time. We were heartbroken when he was not able to find what he was looking for in Josephine County and would continue his search for a new home base in Corvallis, Oregon, a three-hour drive from us.
When people move away you never know if future collaborations will continue or end because of distance, new commitments, etc. It is natural that sometimes people help for a time and then move on. This time our connection did not skip a beat. Our saving grace was that Roman felt a connection with us and appreciated our openness to his training methods and eagerness to learn.
Because he is available for online sessions our staff (and the families they complete adoptions with) have quick access to any questions or concerns that might arise when working with our dogs.
Earlier this year, Roman spent a week with us as we endeavored to rehabilitate two extremely traumatized Wheaten Terriers. Using his holistic force-free and positive training approach we were able to improve the lives of these two dogs while we sought appropriate homes and responsible new owners who could continue their progress. We had online sessions about timelines for progress as we worked with them. Roman’s abilities with the dogs are energizing to watch and demonstrate the potential for growth and change that deeply reassuring.
That he has the further gift of being able to teach and problem solve no matter where he is located, has been a blessing for us. We would (and do) recommend him highly. He is a special human being who seeks to create a deeper understanding between humans and dogs.
He inspires us every time we get the privilege
to work with him!
Sincerely,
Margaret Varner
Executive Director,
Rogue Valley Humane Society (RVHS)
429 NW Scenic Drive
Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
541-479-5154