PUPPY PRESCHOOL (for puppies  8-16 weeks)

Congratulations on the newest addition to your family!  If you would like to give your puppy the best start..then Puppy Preschool is just what you need!   Puppy Preschool focuses on socialization, problem prevention, and early basic manners training in a safe, controlled environment.  You will learn how to understand your puppy's needs, curb behavior problems, and how to establish effective communication with your puppy.  Properly socializing your puppy during this critical period of development is key to helping create a confident dog. We use the most up-to-date positive-reinforcement and reward based techniques.   Your entire family is welcome and encouraged to attend classes.  Our goal is to help you to create a confident and well mannered puppy!  We are here to support you and guide you along your journey with your new furry family member! You will be sure to learn a lot and have fun in this 4 week program! 

Shouldn't I keep my puppy isolated until he has finished his shots?

While it is not advised to bring your puppy absolutely everywhere until their vaccine series is completed, you can safely have your puppy around other adult vaccinated dogs and other puppies in class.  The most important time for socialization is the first 3 months of life.  Incomplete or improper socialization during this critical period can increase the risk of behavior problems later in life, such as fear, avoidance, and aggression.  Behavioral issues, not disease, is the #1 cause of death of dogs under 3 yrs of age and we know it is also the #1 reason dogs are relinquished to shelters or given up.  A combination of maternal antibodies and proper vaccines administered by your veterinarian will give your dog the best protection possible.  All of the other puppies in the class are up to date on their vaccines.  If you have any further questions or concerns please let us know.  You can also consult the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior at www.avsabonline.org.

What requirements do I need to enroll?

Before beginning class, all puppies have been examined by a vet, had their first series of vaccinations (appropriate for their age), have been tested for parasites, and are on heartworm/intestinal parasite and flea preventative.  Just fill out the enrollment form and turn it into Friendship Animal Hospital and you are ready to begin!

Do I have to wait until the next 'session' of classes begins?

Puppy Preschool classes are scheduled based on the availability of the participants.  The program is 4 weeks long (and if you miss a class for any reason, you can attend a make-up class the next time that class rolls around). 

How can I get the individual attention I need to address the specific problems I am having, such as housetraining and mouthing?

We will address all of these issues and many more in class.  We will also individually address your specific concerns and work together to ensure a positive and successful outcome.  We keep class size very small to allow for individual attention and for the best learning environment for the puppies.  Class maximum is 4 puppies.  If you are having continued issues in any of these areas and would like more one-on-one work, a private in-home session can be scheduled.

                                                             Class Fee:  $95/4 weeks

                                              Private In-Home Class:  $160.00/4 sessions

Contact our behavior trainer, Kari Stasienko, at behavior@friendshipanimaldoc.com