Board & Train

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Process

This page is designed to help you understand exactly what to expect before, during, and after your dog’s Board & Train program at Fulton Strong K9. Clear expectations lead to smoother transitions and long-term success.

Arrival Instructions (Drop-Off & Pick-Up)

🚫 Please do NOT use the driveway.

➡️ Drive past the driveway until you reach the double gates.

➡️ Beyond the gates, you will see the training field — this is where you will park and meet your trainer.

This process helps reduce congestion, manage arousal levels in dogs, and maintain a calm, safe training environment.

Will My Dog Remember Me?

Yes — your dog will absolutely remember you at the end of the program.

While your dog may be excited, more focused, or appear different due to structure and training, the bond with their owner remains intact. Board & Train does not replace the relationship between dog and owner — it strengthens it by giving the dog clarity, boundaries, and skills that can be shared with you during the go-home process.

Who Board & Train Programs Are For

Board & Train may be a good fit if:

  • You want a strong foundation built by a professional trainer

  • Your dog needs structure, consistency, and clear expectations

  • You are committed to learning how to maintain the training

  • You understand that training is a long-term process, not a quick fix

  • You are willing to participate in follow-up lessons and maintenance training

These programs are suitable for pet dogs and high-drive dogs, depending on individual assessment and placement.

Who Board & Train Is Not a Good Match For

  • You are looking for a “send the dog away and never train again” solution

  • You are unwilling or unable to attend follow-up lessons

  • You do not plan to maintain structure once the dog returns home

  • You are not open to continued education and guidance

  • You expect permanent results without ongoing effort

Board & Train is the beginning of training — not the end.

Pick-Up Process: Local vs. Out-of-State Clients

Local (In-State) Clients

Local clients will complete the go-home process over three weeks.

Week 1 – Initial Pick-Up Lesson

  • Short demonstration of what your dog has learned

  • Introduction to handling, leash skills, and expectations

  • First steps for integrating training into your home environment

Weeks 2 & 3 – Follow-Up Lessons

  • One lesson per week at Fulton Ranch

  • Continued coaching, refinement, and troubleshooting

  • Ensuring both dog and owner are progressing together

These lessons are a critical part of the program and help prevent confusion or regression.

Out-of-State Clients

For clients traveling from out of state, pick-up is completed during a full weekend intensive:

Duration:

• 2 days

• 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM each day

This weekend includes:

  • A full demonstration of trained behaviors

  • Hands-on instruction for handling and communication

  • Guidance on integrating training into your home and lifestyle

  • A clear plan for continued progress after returning home

Traveling to Drop-Off or Pick-Up

Pet-Friendly Hotels

Lecanto, FL

  • Holiday Inn Express – Lecanto

  • Quality Inn – Lecanto

Homosassa, FL

  • Rodeway Inn – Homosassa

  • Bella Oasis Hotel (please confirm pet policy directly)

Always verify current pet policies before booking.

Dining Options Nearby

Quick / Drive-Thru

  • McDonald’s

  • Chick-fil-A

  • Taco Bell

  • Starbucks

Casual & Pet-Friendly Options

  • The Freezer Tiki Bar (outdoor seating)

  • Crump’s Landing (outdoor seating available)

  • Cody’s Original Roadhouse

  • Sugarmill Restaurant

Training Is a Work in Progress

Board & Train creates a foundation — it does not “finish” the dog.

By committing to a Board & Train program at Fulton Strong K9, clients are also committing to:

  • Continued education

  • Consistent handling

  • Yearly Maintenance Training Weekends at the ranch

Maintenance weekends are strongly encouraged and expected to:

  • Clean up skills

  • Address drift or changes in behavior

  • Support long-term reliability and clarity

Dogs change. Life changes. Training must adapt with them.

Final Note

Our goal is not just a successful drop-off or an impressive pick-up day. Our goal is a dog that remains successful years after training.

Clear expectations, ongoing commitment, and partnership are what make that possible.

If you have questions before drop-off or pick-up, please reach out in advance.