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1. What training classes do you offer? 2. What training methods do you use in your classes? 3. What are the qualifications of your trainers? 4. What classes do you offer for dogs with special needs? 5. When and where are your training classes held? 6. What are the medical requirements for dogs attending classes? 7. Which dogs shouldn't come to our training classes? 8. What should I do if I’m interested in one-on-one training for my dog? 9. How can I learn about your classes or sign up for a class? 10. Do you offer assistance with Service Dogs?
1. What training classes do you offer?
OHS offers a wide array of classes for almost every kind of dog - social dogs, anxious dogs, fearful dogs, reactive dogs, herding dogs, and more! In addition to our usual classes, we offer specialty workshops throughout the year on various training topics and breed-specific issues. Click here to see our current class offerings.
We also offer an Animal Assisted Interaction (AAI) Prep School which certifies pets and owners for visits to nursing homes and hospitals. This kind of program is sometimes called a "Therapy Dog Program." If you'd like to find out more about this program, click here. This is not a 'service dog' program. For more information on service dogs, see #10 below.
2. What training methods do you use in your classes?
Our training philosophy focuses on building a strong, healthy bond between a dog and his owner through positive reinforcement. We do not like to use fear or intimidation-based tactics in our training. OHS trainers believe that reward-based techniques and educating pet owners on canine behavior is the best way to promote a trusting and respectful relationship between individuals and their dogs.
3. What are the qualifications of your trainers?
OHS’s dog trainers are licensed Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDTs) and are professional members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). Their certification requires documented experience in the field, passing an exam and continued education credits. In addition, some OHS trainers are also Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluators and Delta Society Pet Partner team evaluators. And of course, our trainers have years of experience working with adopted dogs and their special needs.
4. What classes do you offer for dogs with special needs? If your dog tends to bark and lunge at other dogs while on a leash, you may want to consider taking our Reactive Rover 6-week class. In most other cases, however, we are able to accommodate special needs dogs in the Basic Manners classes. Shy dogs and slightly reactive dogs can train in a corner of the large training hall where a visual barrier provides them a sense of security. Most importantly, our trainers all have extensive experience with shelter animals and are very knowledgeable about the specific issues they often face. To discuss which classes will be best for you, come to one of our free weekly Intro to Training sessions. Click here for more information on Basic Manners.
5. When and where are your training classes held?
Classes are held at the Oregon Humane Society Animal Medical and Learning Center at 1067 NE Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97211. Our large, open, and airy training arena is designed to foster a comfortable training environment with natural light and fresh air. The Animal Medical and Learning Center is handicap accessible.
Next to our large training arena, Manners Hall, we have a retail store that features specialty training products and tools that will help you with your pet's training. Come check out "Sit. Stay. Good Dog." and you'll find stimulating toys and yummy treats for your dog as well as Gentle Leaders, front-clip harnesses and other great walking tools.
6. What are the medical requirements for dogs attending classes?
Your dog must be free of signs of communicable diseases in order to attend classes. Even if all vaccinations are current, please do not bring your dog to class if he or she is coughing, sneezing, feverish, or displaying any potential symptoms of illness. Any classes missed due to a dog’s illness can be added to your Training Pass and completed later! In addition, we require all dogs over 6 months of age to be spayed or neutered and up-to-date on the following vaccinations (proof of vaccinations from your veterinarian is required for any dog attending a class):
7. Which dogs shouldn't come to our training classes?
Currently enrolled pets should not come if they are showing signs of illness or infection. Dogs that have a history of aggression towards other dogs or people are not appropriate for our group training classes. If your dog is aggressive, we can still provide information and resources for you and your dog. Just call (503) 285-7722, ext. 225.
8. What should I do if I’m interested in one-on-one training for my dog?
In addition to our training classes, OHS offers private training consultations. During these lessons, you and your dog meet alone with one of our Certified Professional Dog trainers for more individual instruction. The fee is $65 per hour, or $50 for dogs adopted from OHS or other area shelters. To schedule a consultation, call the Training and Behavior Department at (503) 285-7722, ext. 225 or email Sue Lay.
9. How can I learn about your classes or sign up for a class?
A list of all current classes can be found here. Students must follow the payment and registration directions for each individual class as listed. Our weekly Intro To Training classes as well as our monthly Problem Pooch and Finicky Feline classes are free, drop-in classes and require no pre-registration. For additional information or specific questions, call the Training and Behavior Department at (503) 285-7722, ext. 225 or email Sue Lay.
10. Do you offer assistance with Service Dogs?
The Oregon Humane Society does not offer service dog training or provide funding for individuals who want to acquire service dogs. You might find more information on these websites: www.affluent.net/sara/ or www.caninecompanions.org.
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© 2008 OREGON HUMANE SOCIETY
