The art of dog training is not easily learned. And still, many “dog trainers” operate without any type of license or credentials in the United States.

So, when former Chinese-born Para-Olympian Qin Lian needed to be trained to be a dog trainer in her country, she knew she needed a legitimate dog training expert. That’s when she found Mark “Dogman” Castillero and Pro-Train Innovative here in Vista.

Lian is visually impaired due to brain damage that occurred from lack of oxygen during her birth. She also has limited mobility on the right side of her body. Lian’s Current Guide Dog Candie, a 12-year-old Labrador, was originally trained by Bod Wendler, a mentor and friend of Castillero. Candie was originally trained by Guide Dogs of the Desert with Bob Wendler as the supervisor. And it was Wendler who pointed Lian to Castillero.

Back at home she is a member of the International Lion’s Club and a former instructor at Hadley School of the Blind. Currently, Lian is a home management instructor for the blind.

 

“I knew I needed an expert to help educate me and I knew that Mark had extensive knowledge of working with guide dogs,” said Lian. “Mark knows dogs very well and he understands the needs of the visually impaired. His personality and experience led me to come across continents to learn from him,” she added.

Lian will use the training she’s received during this recent trip to Pro-Train Innovative to help her work in her home country. She pointed to the affordability of the training she received. She’s so impressed with the training she’s received, that she’s asked Mark to come to Bejing in the Spring for additional training and so that he can host a workshop there.

“I think Mark is such a unique character and I know he can help those who have similar disabilities,” said Lian. “I highly recommend him and am so happy with the education I’ve received while here.” Plus, I got to enjoy the warm San Diego sunshine!

Click here to learn more about Pro-Train Institute, the Official Dog Training Programs Castillero runs in Vista. Or, sign up for his Exclusive One-Day Workshop on February 17, 2018 hosted at the Iconic Deer Park Winery in Escondido. It’s just $149 for a Full-Day of Training. This training is geared toward would-be dog trainers and dog owners who want to learn more about behavior modification for their canines. Space is limited. So sign up now! (Canine welcome with approval from Castillero. Email him for details at protraindog@gmail.com)