What is the proper/usual thing to do for a handler upon his/her finishing your dog? Should you buy the handler a special gift? Give them a cash bonus (if so, what is customary)? Or is it sufficient to have paid all bills/costs promptly and without question?

-- Anonymous, September 07, 1999

Answers

I think the proper thing to do is to give the handler a gift. Since all costs will be paid for in cash it doesn't seem fit to add more cash to the pile. Rather, since handlers take pride in their work and at times become attached to their trainees, a gift would be a far better gesture. The gift can be a framed photo of the handler and the dog or a card of appreciation in the owner and dog's behalf. The more creative and relevant the gift, the better.

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002