Q: What age should I begin obedience training with my dog?
A: As soon as your puppy is at least 8 weeks old. You can start with the simple basics. Dogs’ minds absorb so much when they are puppies.
Q: Is there any truth to “You cannot teach an old dog new tricks”?
A: No. Dogs of all ages enjoy learning new “tricks.” Although, as they age, it may require more patience from the handler and some extra special treats to help them learn a new trick.
Q: When is a good age to incorporate jumping or dancing in my dog’s training?
A: It is highly recommended to wait until 1.5 to 2 years of age before you allow jumping. It is suggested that some breeds never jump or dance. This is to allow time for the dog’s spine, joints and bones to fully develop. If jumping is allowed too soon, it may cause irreversible harm to your dog. PLEASE check with your veterinarian before you start any training program that requires jumping or dancing.
Q: What ages are the handlers in classes?
A: Minimum age is 14 years old.
Q: May my dog and I start in the middle of a 6 week session?
A: It takes about 2 weeks for the dogs to adjust to the new surroundings and exciting smells. So as not to disrupt the dynamics of the class, “new” dogs are not admitted after the second week of class.
Q: Is there a credit or refund policy?
A: Yes. With advanced notification of your cancellation before the first night of class, you may get a full refund from Peace River Dog Fanciers, Inc. The county does not permit refunds after payment has been submitted to the county on the first night of class.
Q: How is a “place” in class reserved?
A: A “place” in class is reserved by contacting us at 941-613-DOGS [3647]. They are on a First Paid – First Served basis. Your registration without payment in advance, does not guarantee you a place in a class. A person from whom we have received payment, is guaranteed a place in class, even though you may have registered before them.
Q: Why are my dog’s vaccination records required?
A: This is for your protection, as well as the other students/handlers and trainers in class. This is so we, and in partnership with the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners, can be assured that all dogs in attendance have the required vaccinations.
Q: What shots are required?
A: We require the same vaccines that many groomers and kennels do. We require: Rabies (this is required by law in Charlotte County), Bordetella, Parvovirus, and Distemper. Many of these are grouped together. Please check with your veterinarian if you are unsure if your dog has received these vaccines. For more information please click here.
Q: I know chocolate is toxic to my dog(s), what else is toxic to them?
A: There is so much more than just chocolate that is toxic to your dogs. For example: Grapes and raisins cause kidney failure. Also the top ones are: Alcoholic beverages, avocado, coffee, fatty foods, macadamia nuts, moldy or spoiled foods, onions or onion powder, salt, yeast dough, garlic and products sweetened with xylitol. For a more detailed list of toxic plants, foods and substances please go to www.aspca.org and click on Animal Poison Control or click here.
