PACT Fund Accessibility.
How to access funds.
What’s Needed from Recipients
Honest Communication: Clear explanation of your needs helps the fund allocate resources effectively. We do not ask for proof of need. All you need to do is indicate in your inquiry form that aid is needed.
Active Participation: Commitment to training sessions and implementing the skills learned.
Future Support: When possible, giving back to the community that supported them helps sustain the fund and maintain its mutual aid spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can ask for assistance from the fund?
The fund is open to all individuals and families who are experiencing financial challenges and need professional dog training services and live in Cuyahoga County. Priority is given to those addressing behavioral concerns, such as fear, anxiety, reactivity, and aggression, or for essential training needs that improve a dog’s quality of life.
What types of training does the fund cover?
The fund supports a variety of positive reinforcement-based training, including:
Behavior modification for fear, anxiety, reactivity, and aggression.
Basic manners and obedience training.
Enrichment-focused programs for mental stimulation.
Specialized training, such as preparing dogs for service.
The fund currently DOES NOT cover separation anxiety cases.
What services does the fund cover?
Currently, Valarie only offers virtual training sessions via a free app called GoogleMeet for PACT Fund recipients. Due to high demand and limited resources, Valarie offers the following:
1. One-Time Virtual Private Consultation
A personalized session designed to address your dog’s specific behavior concerns and create a practical training plan.
2. Six-Week Virtual Group Class
A rotating weekly program that can be joined at any time. Each week covers a different topic, so participants may start any week and continue until they complete all six sessions.
Topics may include:
Reactivity management
Stranger danger management
Loose leash walking
Recall
Calming and impulse control
Basic manners
And more
How much funding can I receive?
This is a discount program, up to 100% off if needed. Please let Valarie know if and how much you can contribute to the fund.
Do I need to pay anything?
While the fund covers as much as possible depending on how much is available in the fund, you may be asked to contribute a portion of the training costs if feasible. Contributions help stretch resources to support more families.
How do I apply for assistance?
There is no application process. Simply tell Valarie in your initial inquiry that you need assistance.
How are applications evaluated?
There are no applications, you will need to complete an intake form and sign the training agreement.
What is expected of me as a recipient?
As a recipient, you are encouraged to:
Commit to the training plan and work with your trainer consistently.
Share feedback about your experience (no personal details required) to help the fund improve and inspire future donors.
Give back to the fund if and when you’re able, to support others in need.
Can I choose my trainer?
Currently, there are not enough funds to pay trainers outside of Sits ‘n Wiggles to help clients. Valarie is currently giving her time to those in need. Once, the fund is more established, we hope to be able to compensate other trainers.
How can I stay involved after receiving assistance?
We encourage recipients to join our community by:
Sharing your success story to inspire others.
Volunteering or spreading the word about the fund.
Donating when your circumstances improve to keep the cycle of care going.