• Class Descriptions

• Registration and Fees

• Class Schedule
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Brutus, Bogey, and Porter love Pet Academy! See more photos here.

The Pet Academy is designed to train owners to develop good canine citizens and well-mannered family pets. Our courses offer socialization with other people and dogs, as well as training for skills, including how to walk calmly on a loose leash, come when called, sit, down, stand and stay. Our approach to training is a motivational one, using positive reinforcement to achieve success.

For more information on any of our Pet Academy programs, or to register, please contact Melissa at
374-3944 x 121, or e-mail tata@animalprotective.org.

Class Descriptions

** New for 2008 **
For Puppy Pre-School and Basic Manners, the first class is for humans only! We ask that you not bring your dog to the first class so that our trainers can give you an overview of the basic concepts you will be learning. 

• Puppy Pre-School
  This class provides a foundation for good behavior of puppies through socialization and confidence-building exercises. It also addresses issues such as chewing, housebreaking, crate training and more. It is designed for puppies up to 5 months old. Classes run for 6 weeks and are about 45 minutes long each. No dogs at the first class.
   
• Basic Manners 101
  This course is for all dogs five months of age and older. It covers fundamental skills such as walking calmly on a leash at your side, stand/stay, sit/stay, and the basics of good manners with people and dogs.  Classes run for 6 weeks and are about 45 minutes long each. No dogs at the first class.
   
• Basic Manners for Small Dogs
  A one-of-a-kind class designed especially for dogs 20 pounds and under. This course will teach the same basics, but in an environment that is comfortable for smaller dogs. Often, small dogs who attend class with large dogs are intimidated, and might not get as much out of class. We will also cover behavioral issues specific to small dogs. See schedule below for start dates. Classes run for 6 weeks and are about 45 minutes long each. No dogs at the first class.
   
• Canine Good Citizen Class
  This course will prepare you and your dog for Canine Good Citizen Certification. The six week course will conclude with an official CGC test on the last day of class.  $95 fee includes test fee.
   
• JUST ADDED: Canine Good Citizen Test - Saturday May 24th, registration starts at 9:30 am
  Official CGC tests may be held periodically throughout the year, typically on a Saturday morning. Fee is $10; open to anyone who wishes to test their well-mannered dog.  Please note that this is a TEST ONLY, not a class.  For more info, contact Melissa at 374-3944 x 121 or e-mail tata@animalprotective.org.
   
• Click here for more information on the Canine Good Citizen Program from the AKC.
   

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Registration and Fees

To register, first check class availability by calling Melissa at (518) 374-3944, ext. 121 or e-mail tata@animalprotective.org.  Registration may be done at the shelter, over the phone, or via fax or e-mail.

Proof of rabies and distemper vaccination are required. Bordetella vaccine (for kennel cough) is recommended, but not required. Your veterinarian may fax records to us at (518) 346-2120.

Classes are held in the APF’s Humane Education Center, located at 53 Maple Avenue in Scotia. Click here for directions.

Puppy Pre-School and Basic Manners 101 class fees are $85 per course (see discounts below). Canine Good Citizen class and test fees are $95.  Please note that, due to high demand, pre-payment is required to hold your spot in class.

We request receipt of your registration form, payment, and proof of vaccinations no later than two weeks after you sign up for class. We cannot hold your spot in class without the required documents and payment. Since classes are filled on a first come basis, late registrants may be accepted, based on class enrollment. 

Click here to download a registration form.

Special Discounts

• All APF dog adopters receive $15 off their first Pet Academy training course. Registration must be within two months of adopting.

• APF Pet Academy graduates receive $10 off their next training course. Registration must be within two months of graduation.

Cancellation Policy

• Full refunds may be granted if cancellation is more than two weeks prior to the start of class.  If less than two weeks, a $10 processing fee will be deducted. 
   

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2008 Class Schedule
*please call first to verify class availability*

Photo Gallery

            
                 Gimme Five                        Peek-a-Boo                                  Find It!

        
      Put your toys away...                 ...You too, Porter                      Say your prayers

             
           Hug your buddy                           That was fun!