BEHAVIOR TRAINING CLASSES
Our society has come to call them “man’s best friend,” but did you know that annoying and destructive behaviors in dogs account for 84% of the homeless dogs found in shelters today? Many shelters simply accept the pet, then euthanize it. For the past year and a half, we have been taking a different approach. First, we try to work with individuals and families to find ways to solve their pet problems rather than surrender them. We have helped many owners and their pets stay together. Sometimes an owner just says, “It’s too late—I just need to get rid of him.” These are the “broken dogs.” We take them in, assess their behavior and go to work trying to fix the problems. It’s a lot harder because we must work with limited attachment in an even more limited environment. For us, fixing the problem is more desirable than ending the dog’s life.
Taking the lead in this effort is Kate Whitrock, Executive Director of the shelter. She has trained dogs and horses for 30 years. Kate will be teaching the following classes:
Session 1 $15 / person 1st THURSDAY 6:30 p.m.
Annoying behaviors such as jumping up, bolting, barking, house soiling, running away and food guarding as well as identifying and proper use of kennels, crates and carriers. Includes the training lecture, "Nothing in Life is Free".
Session 2 $15 / person 2nd THURSDAY 6:30 p.m.
Destructive behaviors such as anxiety, chewing, biting, digging, aggression, and the escape artist as well as methods of outdoor confinement, types of fencing, and tying out. Includes the lecture "Good Toys, Bad Toys".
Session 3 & 4 $25 / person 3rd THURSDAY 6:30 p.m. and 3rd SATURDAY by appointment
Here we discuss what works, what doesn't, and why. A variety of training devices are demonstrated including many types of collars, Halti, no-jump harnesses, no-pull collars and leads, no-bark collars, shock collars, etc. Basic manners while walking on a loose leash. This is a 2-part class. Participants will bring their dogs (one per person) to the Saturday session for individualized training.
Call the shelter (338-2738) during open hours for exact dates and times and to reserve your place in the class(es) of your choice.