Puppy/Obedience Classes

*Download our information handout for puppy and obedience classes.

Puppy Class

According to professionals in the field of animal behavior, puppies need to be socialized between the ages of 8-16 weeks to help avoid behavior problems later in life. This is the sensitive period of time in which puppies are most accepting to socialization. We believe that socializing your puppy is equally as important as all the medical and health protecting steps we advise you on in protecting your puppy from disease.

Petworks Puppy classes are a continuous-entry, 4-6 session program developed by experienced trainers and endorsed by veterinarians. Bobbi MacInnis provides the training. We use progressive reinforcement training methods with clickers in a comfortable, pet-friendly environment with a focus on fun and learning. Each session is an hour long and provides socialization followed by a topic of the week. Pet parents will learn how to expose puppies to positive experiences to build confidence, and how to shape and encourage good behavior. Life skills such as climbing stairs, walking at night, and passing cars are all new experiences to a puppy. Classes will aid in alleviating any fears associated with these new experiences.

Classes take place in the safety of the Petworks daycare facility. Call 435-2444 to register your pet.

AVSAB Position Statement on Puppy Socialization

Obedience Classes

Obedience classes for pets 20 weeks of age and older are on-going and run for five, one hour evening sessions. Bobbi MacInnis instructs using positive reinforcement techniques. Pet parents will learn how to shape, encourage, and reward good behavior. Obedience is an excellent follow up to Puppy classes. Mature and senior pets can benefit greatly from these classes as well. The goal is to teach you and your pet the life skills needed for safety and a happy coexistence.

Classes are offered for the adopted pet and their specific needs also. Learn how to build a confident and happy pet through positive training methods. Classes take place in the Petworks daycare facility. Call 435-2444 to register your pet.

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Trainer Bio: Bobbi MacInnis, Dip.ACBS

Trainer Bobbi Bobbi has been training dogs since 2003. She has a Diploma in Advanced Canine Behavior Sciences with a focus on Canine Aggression from the Companion Animal Sciences Institute; she is currently pursuing a Diploma in Feline Behavior Science and Technology. She specializes in positive reinforcement training and non-aversive behavior modification techniques. Bobbi is a member of the Association of Animal Behavior Professionals, the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers, and her research has been published in the Journal of Applied Companion Animal Behavior. Her philosophy is simple: improve the lives of pets through the power of positive training!