Classes are at the armoury in Kemptville at 25 Reuben Crescent. If you need to reach me, my cell phone number is 613-864-5836.
Prior to attending your first class you must fill in the online registration/waiver form. The form can be found here: https://form.jotform.com/201785179915264
So:
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Fill in the jot form registration form at https://form.jotform.com/201785179915264
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Get your puppy ‘kit’ ready
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Send me vaccination records (photo or scan is fine).
Preparing for class
Make sure you have what you need ready.
I use boundaries (bed/mats) for a place to take your dog as needed during class to work on self control, or calmness. Boundary games have endless applications and you’ll need one for each class. If you’re doing an in person class please bring your own or use one of the mats we have. For online classes have a bed/boundary close by to use.
Toys are encouraged for those dogs that prefer them as rewards. Try not to use squeaker toys in class because of the distraction factor for the other dogs. If your dog doesn’t play with toys yet, don’t worry! We work on it a little bit each class. Work with toys can build some excellent skills! If you remember, bring 2 of your pup’s favourite toys.
Food rewards are used for the games simply because most dogs will work easily for food. At home you can likely use your dogs daily food allowance (kibble) with a few higher value, healthy treats. If you’re in class you will need a variety of types of food because class tends to be a much more difficult environment. Food/treats should be in very small pieces (about half the size of your pinky fingernail.
Your dog’s list for every class:
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Boundary
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Toys
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Food Rewards
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Non retractible leash
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Harness and/or head collar if you use them for walking.
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Regular clip or martingale collar. Please no prong or e-collars.
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Water -I’ll have a water bowl out for in person classes but you may prefer your own.
Occasionally I’ll ask you to have something else with you but these things are what your dog will need for every class. If you’re working from home, give your dog access to water. Training is hard work!
If you want to take notes or film working on a game with your dog in class feel free. You are always able to take your dog back to a boundary if you need to write something down, Once the dogs are more reliable on the boundary you can partner up with someone for notes or filming and take turns working your dogs. One person can write/film while the other works. From home you can conscript a family member if there’s one available
Please remember that everyone in class has different struggles. Some dog/human teams will move quickly through some exercises and have trouble with others. Your movement through class will be entirely different.
Be willing to help each other out by giving each team space, and being aware that what you are doing may affect someone else’s training. Courtesy and awareness are crucial in any class, but especially a class with dogs. Help each other if you can and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
For you in class
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Water (or other beverage)
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Paper and pen
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Phone (camera or electronic notes)
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Sunscreen and repellent (for outdoor classes)
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Appropriate dress if outdoors (boots, rain gear, loose comfortable clothing), Clean shoes if indoors.
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Snack if necessary for longer workshops or classes.
I look forward to seeing you and your pups in class!
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