Puppy Pre School

 

The photographs (pictured right) are from a recent puppy class who graduated . Congratulations to Bud, Wolf, Buster, Astro, Tilly and Mika !

 

The Importance of Puppy PreSchool

All puppies have a critical socialisation period which lasts from 4-16 weeks of age. During this time, they learn important lessons about how to interact with dogs and people, and how to behave within your family. The experiences and behaviours  they learn during this time greatly influence the dog they will become in their adult life.

It is important to teach your puppy how to interact with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment. This is also the best time to start implementing training and establish boundaries so that your pup grows up to be a well behaved, obedient and enjoyable dog. 

 

About our Puppy PreSchool Program

- Our program is based on positive reinforcement and rewards.

- Friendly, relaxed and fun environment where the whole family may attend.

- Classes are held at Vital Vet in a safe, controlled & disinfected environment 

   (So puppies only have to have had their first vaccination).

- Available to all puppies 7-14 weeks of age, provided they are healthy and

   have had their first vaccination.

- Small classes with a maximum of six puppies per class

- Classes are held by Cathy our qualified and experienced veterinary nurse.

 

A Few Goals of our Program

1. For your puppy to be comfortable around different people and enjoy meeting and playing with other puppies. Shy pups will gain confidence and boisterous puppies learn how to be gentle with quieter playmates.

2. For puppies to enjoy coming into the vet clinic and be relaxed and have a positive, fun experience at Vital Vet.  Our program includes a behind-the-scenes hospital tour.

3. For your puppy to learn basic obedience commands (sit, stay, drop, come/recall) and manners so they are a well behaved and enjoyable pet.

4. Learn how to implement an effective preventative health care program for your puppy.

5. Give you the confidence and knowledge to establish an ongoing training program with your dog, and the skills to prevent future behavioural problems.

 

 

Some of the Topics Covered

1. Canine behaviour, body language and interaction explained.

2. Being a good leader for your puppy and your pup’s role in your 

    family.

3. How to use positive reinforcement to establish boundaries and  

    discipline.

4. How to stop your puppy digging, jumping up, barking, biting and  

    how to stop other unwanted behaviours.

5. Toilet-training is covered in depth.

6. Obedience training: Sit, stay, come/recall, drop, walking on a

    lead, manners.

7. Preventive health care: Vaccinations, heartworm, intestinal 

    worms, fleas, microchipping, sterilisation, dental care, grooming.

8. Nutrition: How to choose the correct diet for your puppy.

9. Health & Safety: How to ‘puppy-proof’ your home, how to apply

    first aid, poisons & dangers

10. How to choose the correct toys and enrichment aids for your

    puppy

11. Council laws and registration

 

Additional Information

· Our four week program costs $70.

· Bookings are essential and a deposit of $20 is required to confirm your place. Please contact us to enquire about enrolling.

· The classes are held at Vital Vet and are one hour in duration.  Our next class starts on Thursday March 26th 2009. It is almost full so please phone for more details or to book in your puppy.

· All training treats are provided and there is a graduation certificate and complimentary puppy pack to take home.

· The program includes a comprehensive puppy school booklet with detailed class notes and additional information.