Classes

Please see our "News & Events" page HERE for class schedules and workshops.

Kitten Socialization Classes

Read our introduction to "Kitten Kindergarten" HERE...

Dogs & Storks Class

Read our introduction about this class HERE...

Puppy Socialization Classes

Puppy classes can be loads of fun and very educational for puppies and owners alike.

There is a big world for a puppy to explore. They have a unique "socialization period," usually between 5-16 weeks of age. This is when many important social behaviors begin to develop. Puppies are like sponges and absorb a lot of information about proper play and pack behavior. As the puppy grows, the human family continues to have a huge impact on what the puppy learns and how it acts.

Statistically, a dog is more likely to be euthanized because of behavior problem from inadequate socialization than by an infectious disease outbreak (i.e. distemper or parvovirus). This is why the puppies should attend class during the sensitive socialization period.

At puppy class, we give you the tools and knowledge to raise a well-mannered puppy through positive training methods. The class is conducted by Dr. Anne Peden at Charlotte Street Animal Hospital once a week for six weeks and usually consists of 6-8 puppies of all sizes. One section of classes costs $60.00, to be paid at the first meeting. We meet for 1 to 1 & 1/2 hours for instruction and play. The puppies even have "homework" so that the owners can work on new commands each week. We teach commands like: "Watch me" (eye contact), "Easy" (taking treats, toys nicely), "Sit," "Down," "Stand," "Quiet Down," "Leave it," "Come," "Stay," and "Off."

We address basic puppy topics such as house training, meeting and greeting other people and puppies, loose-leash walking, recall, crate training, bite inhibition, and canine behavior. We also discuss vaccinations, parasite control, handling techniques (i.e. nail trimming, teeth brushing), basic first aid, and the "adolescent" dog. Lastly, the puppies engage in off-leash play. Play is an integral part of socialization, and dogs and puppies learn so much from their own kind. The last class is, of course, graduation with diplomas (but without the cap and gown).

Owners also obtain an education. We focus on new methods of training through positive reinforcement techniques. We also teach how to manage puppy behaviors and instruct owners about what defines normal puppy behavior. Many owners do not realize that mouthing, barking, growling, mounting, yipping and biting can be part of normal play. Some owners will stop play or chastise the dog for this behavior. This prevents the dog from learning from other dogs how to be a dog. Potential social anxieties could develop because of this inadvertent discouragement.

THE MAIN GOALS OF PUPPY CLASS:
1. It is easier to teach a puppy what you want him to do rather than what you don't want him to do. Teaching correct behaviors will be reinforced. (Nobody wants to hear "no," "wrong," and "that's not right" all the time). Example: A puppy (or dog) should learn to sit and stay when the door is opened rather than yelling "no" when he starts to run through the door.
2. Training should be fun for both puppy and owner. It does, however, require time and a lot of patience.
3. Socialization and training is an ongoing process throughout your dog's life. Puppies should have positive experiences. Forcing a shy, timid puppy in situations in which they are afraid could create negative and lasting impressions later in life.
4. We hope that the puppies have a good association with the hospital and actually enjoy trips to the veterinary office!

REQUIREMENTS:
1. Puppies must be at least 8 weeks of age.
2. Puppies need to have their first round of vaccines before the first class. Since the puppies immune system is developing at the same time as the socialization period, disease transmission is always a concern
3. Puppies need to be free of all internal and external parasites.
4. If your puppy is not feeling well (sneezing, coughing, diarrhea) then he should stay at home until he is well again.

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