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ABOUT OUR TRAINING PROGRAM  Here at the Ramapo Bergen Animal refuge we offer a variety of training classes and programs. These classes are open to anyone who would like to attend, not just RBARI adopters. Training classes are a great way for owners to build a bond with their dog, whether this dog is a new addition to the family or has been a long time member. All of our training is based on positive methods and is reward based. Though we do offer dog training classes and private lessons, this is not our first job. Our first job is to try and place the animals that are living with us in loving permanent homes. Our staff trainers spend the whole day training the dogs that are currently in our shelter and trying to find them homes. Once our dogs and puppies have been adopted, part of keeping them in their homes is helping new parents to work through any training and behavior problems that may arise after adoption. This is why we initially started a training program. We do not run continual group classes, and do not offer group classes in the winter months as we do not have an indoor facility to hold dog training classes (though this is a goal we are working towards). Group classes are run on an "on demand" basis from Spring to early Fall. This means that when we get enough requests for group training - we form a class. It is our hope that in the near future to be able to continually run classes so that we may better meet the need around us. If you are interested in taking your dog through a group class please contact us to see if we have a group class running. If we do not have any classes running we will be more than happy to refer you to other trainers in the area. We offer Private lessons and Behavior Consultations/Evaluations all year round. Private lessons are open to any dog or puppy and can cover a wide range of training and behavior problems or can be used to teach basic manners and obedience. We even have a few clients that have chosen to teach their dog basic agility! (see below for more information on agility training for you and your dog). Please read on for more information about what we offer.
Group Classes ~ September 2008 Classes ~ A seven week course designed to teach owners and their dogs all of the basic obedience commands. 
Classes are kept small, about five students and their dogs. Each course will go over basic obedience commands: heel, sit, sit/stay, down, down/stay, loose leash walking and come. Dogs are also taught basic manners such as not to jump up on people or go through the garbage. Group class is for well-socialized dogs with minor behavioral problems aged 5 months and up. Owners must present proof of vaccination (distemper combo, rabies and bordatella) before the 2nd week of class. Classes are held 1 day a week for 1 hour, running a total of 7 weeks. The first week is an orientation for the owners without the dogs present. Lessons 2-6 are held with the dogs. Back to Basics ~ A four week mini course where dogs and puppies are taught manners and basic obedience skills. A comprehensive 4 session class that will help re-enforce previous training for dogs and their owners, or help to get a new puppy acquainted with basic commands and manners. Some of the skills taught in this class include, loose leash walking, sit, down, stay, and an informal come. We teach owners how to teach their dogs the philosophy that "nothing in life is free" by encouraging them to ask their dogs or puppies to perform a desired behavior before anything that he/she wants. Cost is $80. Private Lessons ~ Private lessons are tailored specifically to the needs of the owner and their dog Private lessons are for dogs and puppies of any age. Lessons are tailored to the specific needs of owner and pet. Private training is ideal for dogs with major behavioral issues or owners with hectic schedules. We can cover just about any area of training in private lessons. We are qualified to deal with minor behavior problems such as mouthing, jumping, barking & housebreaking, as well as major problems such as aggression, dominance, phobias & fears, and other problem behaviors. Owners must present proof of vaccination ( distemper, rabies, and bordatella). After an initial meeting we will develop a specific "training package" for you and your dog. Dogs adopted from RBARI receive a discount on any training package. Training programs available with private training are:
Puppy Training ( 6-16 weeks of age)
Basic Obedience (16+ weeks of age)
Off Leash Training (Prerequisite - Basic Obedience)
Fun & Games Trick Class
Behavior Modification & Problem Solving (Must complete and evaluation with a trainer before signing up for this course)
Basic Agility** Something not listed?? - give us a call!! We'll see if we can help! Consultation / Evaluation ~ Have a meeting with the trainer to discuss specific problems you are having with your dog /puppy and develop a recommended course of action to solve the problem.Owners may bring their dogs in for a training consultation and behavior evaluation. This may help owners understand and find cause for behavioral problems. Suggestions for a possible course of training can be made. Evaluations can last anywhere from an hour on up so that we may determine exactly what is at the root of your pets behavior. Please contact us at 201-337-5180 or email at k9training@rbari.org for more information. |
