Class Requirements for Therapy Dog Prep Class

These are rules & regulations for anyone who wants to join this class. Please read through these carefully.

1) Dogs joining this class must have had prior training at a basic level & have a great desire to be petted, hugged & loved on by people. They should respond to the following commands: sit, lie down, stay, walk on leash & come when called.  This class does not teach obedience or work on it if it needs more work.  We recommend that your dog have a very good understanding of these commands before joining this class. (If your dog needs work on these commands please consider one of our Basics & Beyond classes!)

2) Dogs must be controllable on-leash, around other dogs.  We will work toward the CGC in this class but will not teach obedience, per se.

3) All dogs must be fully vaccinated & proof should be shown to the instructor(s) at the first class. This includes the following vaccinations: Distemper, Parvovirus & Rabies. (It is not mandatory but it is highly recommended that your dog is treated with a flea & tick prevention such as Frontline or Advantage.)

4) All dogs must be on a 4 or 6-foot leash (no Flexi® or retractable leashes are allowed) at all times during class unless your instructor tells you otherwise. The leash must be attached to a no-slip collar that fits your dog appropriately. (You may only have a different type of collar if your instructor advised it prior to class.)  Dogs must be kept a minimum of 12 feet apart during class. 

5) You must bring an ample amount of poop-bags for any necessary clean-up & you must clean-up after your dogs when necessary & dispose of it properly.

6) You should bring water & a bowl for your dog to have a refreshment & thirst quencher.  You also will need extremely yummy treats & your dog's favorite toy (or toys).  We recommend Natural Balance Food Rolls as a treat.

7) Dogs with behavior problems need to be evaluated by one of our instructors prior to joining a class. An instructor will help you choose a program to solve any behavior problems & then direct you to a class or training program that is best suited for you & your dog.