Vaccinations
Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations. Written proof of current vaccination is required prior to the start of all offered services. If your dog is spayed or neutered, a copy of their spay/neuter veterinary record is also required.
Rabies [over 4 months]
DHPP [boosters given for distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza and parvovirus]
*Bordetella [a.k.a “kennel cough”]
*Optional, but if your dog has or has had kennel cough, you must inform me prior to the start of any class.
Special Circumstances
If your dog is reactive or potentially aggressive, you must inform me of this at the time of registration.
For your dog’s safety and well-being, females in heat are discouraged from being worked in or near public areas such as dog parks until their cycle is finished. Lessons will be scheduled to accommodate that.
Leashes and Collars
Standard 4- or 6-foot leashes are required. Prong, shock, and e-collars are prohibited. Retractable leashes are allowed only if your dog already consistently practices heeling on a loose leash and is not prone to lunging after or trying to chase other animals. If you don’t have an appropriate leash at the start of the course, one will be provided for you for the first lesson only. After the first lesson, you must provide your own leash. Long lines (leashes 25 feet or longer) are only used for distance training (e.g. distance sit-stay, down-stay, etc.).
Beds and Mats
A bed or mat is only needed for lessons requiring their use.
Rewards
It’s very important to keep your dog interested and motivated during training. Please make sure you have a variety of broken-up or bite-sized food treats, chew toys, or some other high-value reward ready to go and easy to access before the start of each lesson. Timing of their delivery is critical to reinforcing correct responses.