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 some prior training at a basic level. They should respond to the following commands: sit, lie down, stay, walk on leash & come when called. (If your dog has not been taught these commands please consider one of our Basics & Beyond classes or one of our In-Home Training programs!)

2) It is recommended that you have obtained your Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) award before completing this class.  We may be able to test some dogs during this class that have not taken their CGC test, that will depend on the progress of the class.  You may also take our CGC Prep Class prior to this class & obtain your CGC or schedule a test with one of our evaluators.

3) Dogs must be controllable on-leash, although we will work on perfecting obedience & proofing for therapy work.

4) 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.)

5) 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. 

6) 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.

7) 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.

8) 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 that is suited for you & your dog.