1. Maintain a minimum of three feet between ALL dogs at ALL times except during play periods. Be aware of your surroundings.
2. Ensure all of your training gear is free of damage and all clips and buckles are securely fastened (keep collar secure enough that dog cannot wiggle out of it).
3. Keep your dogs on leash at all times unless specifically advised by trainer otherwise.
4. All dogs in group classes must be up to date on routine vaccinations and deworming and free of fleas / ticks. Please provide a copy of current vet records on or before the first day of class.
5. Make sure other dogs are under control before entering the classroom with your dog.
6. Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
7. Children under 10 may observe or assist quietly if they are accompanied by an adult other than the one participating in class. Because young children tend to be easily distracted and are still developing motor skills, it is not reasonable to expect them to be responsible for the training their dog.
8. Consult with trainer prior to your first attendance to ensure you have the right equipment.
9. Dogs working on socialization must be assessed prior to joining a group setting. Aggressive dogs may be allowed to join classes if owner can display adequate control and dog has been properly desensitized to wearing an approved style of muzzle.
10. Avoid talking to or making eye contact with other clients’ reactive dogs. If a dog is displaying agitation, excitement, stress or fear, give him space and DO NOT talk to, touch or try to calm him.
11. If your dog is displaying agitation, excitement, stress or fear, create as much space as possible between yourselves and other classmates. Patiently and quietly wait for your dog to relax, then reward the desirable behavior with calming verbal praise and/or a treat if he will accept it. Do not force a stressed dog into a stressful situation.
12. If a dog escapes from his owner, stay calm but act quickly to prevent dog/dog interaction.  Stand in front of your dog to block interaction if your dog is large, pick up your dog and turn your back on the loose dog if your dog is small. If you are confident in your dog handling skills you may assist in blocking and corralling the loose dog. Notice what others are doing to assist so efforts are not redundant. If you are uncomfortable or afraid, maintain a safe distance or step into the back yard. Usually, when a loose dog is ignored and unable to make contact with other dogs, they return to their owner.

1. Flat sole, closed toe, comfortable shoes.
2. Long lightweight pants. The room is air conditioned. Some dogs tend to jump up & pants prevent scratches.
3. Quick access treat bag. (No plastic baggies or containers, please.) Preferred brands: Kyjen Outward Hound, Guardian Gear, or PetSafe. Sold on Amazon.com or at Keys Kritters
4. An abundant supply of your dog’s favorite treats in bite sized pieces approximately the size of a peanut. If your dog has a favorite toy or two, bring those too.
5. A small hand towel or cloth. This is not necessary, but you will be glad you brought it, especially if your dog slobbers.
6. Flat buckle collar or Gentle Leader style head collar (harness for small breeds). Collar must be snug at the highest point of the dog’s neck. If you currently use a choke chain or prong collar, bring a regular collar as well. We will aim to phase out choke and prong collars.
7. Beverage? It’s only an hour, but if you think you may get thirsty, bring a drink.
8. Folder. You will receive a folder at the first class. Please bring it to all consecutive classes.

If your dog has dietary restrictions, you can us his kibble as rewards. Increase the value of kibble by adding a piece of lunch meat to a bag of kibble the morning of class. The scent and flavor will make the kibble more interesting.

If you intend to bring multiple dogs, please bring a suitable sized crate and arrive early to set it up. Leaving a dog unattended in a car is both hazardous and illegal.