May 2011 Class Schedule

Wednesday 11th May

6pm Beyond the Basics - Getting Started (ideal class for those who have completed basic training)

7pm Beyond the Basics - Rally-Obedience (for fun and competition, working Level 1 and Level 2 exercises)

8pm Confidence Course II (for dogs who have been assessed and/or completed a set of classes with us previously, suitable for dogs who wish to learn competitive dog sports but still struggle with focus)

Thursday 12th May

6pm Perfect Puppies (for puppies up to 6 months of age) or Adolescent Angels depending on demand!

7pm Beyond the Basics - Heelwork to Music (for all levels)

8pm Confidence Course I (for dogs just starting to learn how to relax in exciting or stressful situations)

New events

Positive Training for Ringcraft Success Seminar (using rewards based training, TTouch and groundwork to improve your dog)

Competitive Obedience with a Rewards-Based Perspective Seminar (will be taught by an experienced teacher and handler)

Chase recall sessions: working with a small group of dogs and handlers to improve chase recall from prey

Association of Pet Dog Trainers Companion Awards Scheme: recently launched this Spring, these awards allow you and your dog to progress through the scheme based on achievements in class with your regular trainer. These will be incorporated into our regular classes but we will be holding an assessment day in June/July for those who are ready to take home proof of their progress!

As always if you have any questions about the course content or suitability of your dog please do contact me by phone, text or email.

Best wishes

Morag, Finn, Farah and Bronte: our newest family member from Lizzie's Barn Sanctuary, a very special deaf and partially sighted collie girl

New course running in York: The Confidence Course

The Confidence Course:
Training, TTouch and Bodywork to create a calm focused canine

Morag Heirs, trainer and bodyworker
Janet Finlay, trainer (APDT) and TTouch practitioner 1

This weekly course offers you the chance to work with your dog in a controlled environment. We use motivational training methods incorporating toy, food and environmental rewards alongside reward marking/clickers. We will not use harsh or aversive techniques.

**Course runs from June 11th to July 16th - we are currently fully booked**

Pre-requisites
We welcome any dogs with some basic training who are able to be in a hall with other dogs and people. If you are not sure about taking part please contact Morag or Janet to arrange an assessment.

Course Topics:
Creating focus and attention in easily distracted or worried dogs
Dealing with sudden changes/noises/movement
Relaxing in exciting environments
Teaching games and coping skills
Learning to read your dog’s body language accurately

Much of the material in this course has been adapted from Leslie McDevitt’s “Control Unleashed” programme and we strongly recommend you purchase the book (see links).

What to Bring!

• Flat collar and/or harness (no choke chains, prong collars or stop/pull harnesses that tighten under the armpits please)
• A plain webbing or leather lead (no chain or flexi leads please)
• Lots of very small (pinkie nail sized) tasty, smelly treats
• Clicker if you have one
• Favourite toys
• Water bowl
• Mat or a thin blanket
• Muzzle or head collar if you normally use these tools
• Fabric or metal crate if your dog is accustomed to this