Setting the Slovakian puppies off on the best paw forward - Dog Training at the GSPCA
Submitted by Steve on 17:22, 4th Nov, 2015 |
0
As the Slovakian puppies head out into their new and loving homes it will be important to set them off on the best paw forward.
This morning another group of the Slovakian puppies with friends and owners came along to the first of a six week training course with Welfare Manager Lorna Prince.
It is extremely important to ensure all puppies are well socialised and trained for happy owners and happy puppies.
Here are the details of the GSPCA dog training classes run by Lorna and her wonderful team of dedicated and trained volunteers -
Every penny we raise through our puppy and dog-training classes goes directly towards the animals in our care and to improving our welfare facilities for the ever-increasing number of stray, neglected and unwanted pets.
We run the APDT Good Companion Puppy and Foundation Training Awards at the Animal Shelter on a Tuesday and Thursday evening (7pm – 8pm) and also on other days / nights when we are able.
Our training courses run for 6 weeks and each class lasts for approximately an hour (give or take). There are a maximum of 6 (or on a rare occasion 7) dogs per class allowing us to give each dog lots of individual attention.
The total cost of the 6 week course is £50
All of the puppies must have had their second vaccinations before they can begin the puppy course.
Our approach is very much based on modern motivational training. We want the dogs to learn because they find it rewarding NOT because they are trying to avoid a punishment or correction.
We do use the Clicker as part of our training. Please 'click' on the link below for more information.
We teach a mix of basic commands such as sit, down, walking nicely on lead and recall as well as working through focus exercises, calm greeting of people and other dogs on lead and exercises to prevent / stop jumping up. We demonstrate activities that owners can do with their dog to help build and strengthen their bond, the dog’s responsiveness and thus increase owner control.
We continually assess each dog and advise on any behaviour problems that the owners may be experiencing.
Our aim is that people leave the classes with a greater understanding of their dogs and why they do things. We try to give the owners the skills to deal with anything that their dog throws at them while helping them to enjoy being a dog owner, after all that's what its all about.
Click the button below to download an Application Form
For those owners and dogs that have graduated from the Puppy classes and would like to undertake the Good Companion Award please complete a follow on form.
Click the button below to download a Continuation Form
Myself and Jenny Mahy take the classes with helpers. I am from a canine behaviour background and Jenny is an obedience trainer so we have a good range of knowledge depending on your individual needs. We are both members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers see http://www.apdt.co.uk/ for more information.
Lorna has a lifetime of experience with a huge variety of breeds. She started out in traditional dog training and ‘showing’ becoming the Channel Island Junior Handler in the early eighties. She moved from formal dog training to applied canine behaviour when she joined the Rehabilitation Department at Battersea Dogs’ and Cats’ Home. During this time it became clear that the most important thing a dog needs is to learn to trust its handler. Since joining the GSPCA she has continued to manage the assessing and rehoming of the Shelter dogs as well as helping to train and rehabilitate family pets. She is dedicated to helping people understand their pets and to improving the dog – owner relationship.
Jenny has over 40 year’s dog training experience including dancing with dogs and competitive obedience, having competed at Crufts as part of the Guernsey team. She is a qualified judge for the Kennel Club Good Citizen Award Scheme and is committed to improving the dog / owner bond.
Jenny has moved from ‘traditional’ training techniques and now applies modern motivational training methods that do not compromise the mental and physical welfare of the dogs.
We believe in continued personal development and strive to build upon our skills and experience by attending course, seminars and workshops when we can.
If there is a kinder alternative why do it any other way.
Course dates:
Thursday 29th January 7pm Puppy - FULL
Tuesday 10th March 7pm Puppy - FULL
Thursday 26th March 7pm Beginner - FULL
Tuesday 28th April 7pm Puppy - FULL
Thursday 14th May 7pm Puppy - FULL
Tuesday 16th June Puppy - FULL
Thursday 9th July Puppy - FULL
Tuesday 25th August Puppy - FULL
Thursday 3rd September Puppy - FULL
More dates to be released soon, please register for details
Please note class spaces are allocated on receipt of a completed application form and payment of £50. Thank you
Please watch this video http://youtu.be/d1gM1fdIP4wand support our local Staffies. If the link doesn't work, copy and paste to your browser.
Help us to continue to keep them safe!
Thankfully the incidents of animals being injured by fireworks & bonfires in Guernsey are few and far between; but we mustn’t get too complacent. Below are some basic guidelines that will enable you to help all of our furry and feathered friends to stay calm and safe on and around Bonfire night.
To notify us of your event please email the team at the GSPCA and we can add your firework display to our calendar. Please let us know the location, date and times it is planned for and also if it is public or a private event.
To help please cut and paste the following and input the details -
Location of event:Date of firework event:Time planned to start:Time planned to end:Is the event public or private:Any other helpful details:
Thank you for helping us help pet owners in Guernsey.
GSPCA Firework Advice
Fireworks are exciting and pretty to look at and it is fun to celebrate Guy Fawkes with a bang, but for our furry and feathered friends this time of year can be a nightmare. Many animals domestic and wild suffer needlessly every year.
The GSPCA would like to urge everyone follow our animal friendly firework code and protect your pets and the local wildlife.
Please make sure that your pets are wearing a collar with an identity tag in case they manage to escape from your home. We would also strongly advise that you have your pets microchipped as this enables us to reunite them with you much more easily should they run away. Please call the GSPCA for further details on having your animal microchipped.
Walk your dog during the day.
As soon as it gets dark keep your dog or cat inside. Ensure all of the windows and doors are locked including dog and cat flaps.
Go to an organised display if you can. If you are having a private firework display then build you bonfire as late as possible to reduce the likelihood of any wildlife taking up residence. Before lighting the fire check the area thoroughly for hedgehogs. We are always saddened by the number of hedgehogs we receive that have suffered severe burns.
Please notify your neighbours of your intentions. Especially the elderly and those who have pets.
When horses are startled they are likely to bolt and can suffer serious injuries. Ensure that all horses, ponies and donkeys are securely stabled with the doors closed.
Remember to bring guinea pigs and rabbits inside or place under cover in an out building.
Don’t take your dog to a firework display. If you are going out then draw your curtains, put the television or radio on and provide you pet with a safe hiding place so they feel secure.
If you know that your pet is frightened by loud noises such as fireworks or has an existing heart condition please contact your vet for advice. They may suggest you try an Appeasing Pheromone such as ADAPTIL or Feliway diffusers or may discuss the use of sedatives; depending on your pet’s needs.
Please clean up after firework parties. Litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.
Remember NEVER let fireworks off near animals.
Note: ADAPTIL and Feliway products are on sale at the Shelter and have proven to be very effective in calming anxious pets. You should purchase the product as soon as you can for maximum effectiveness on and around Fireworks night. The GSPCA is keen to help owners reduce their pet’s anxieties and now offers these products for almost 50% less than other outlets.
Here is some additional information and videos to help you through the next few weeks with your dog and cat:
If you require further advice please contact the GSPCA on 257261
Sell out tours at the GSPCA and plans for 2016http://www.gspca.org.gg/blog/sell-out-tours-gspca-and-plans-2016
Have you got a GSPCA Hoody, Polo Shirt, Sweat Shirt or T-shirt? If not get yours by clicking here.
To find out about our Events, how to become a Member, Sponsor an Animal Pen, our Wish List, Corporate Sponsorship & Volunteering, , our New Build & Redevelopment Appeal and much more please click here.
There are many ways to support the work of the GSPCA and you can even donate online by clicking the paypal link below.
By post cheques payable to 'GSPCA' - GSPCA, Rue des Truchots, St Andrews, Guernsey, GY6 8UD
Or by phone 01481 257261.
To find out more regarding our Angel Sponsorship Scheme please click here.
Have you liked us on facebook yet or joined us on twitter?
Post new comment