Our classes are conducted under the philosophy of positive reinforcement.

Encouragement and reward techniques are used to help pups reach their learning goals in a fun atmosphere. Using treats and praise, our goal is for puppies to think through, and truly understand the tasks.

Upon completion, puppies should be capable of the "come", "sit" and "stay" commands, three very handy skills for their entire life. Students also practice these skills at home for an all round learning experience.

Classes also contribute to making the early experience of the clinic a positive one and helps to reduce fear or anxiety for return trips.

All graduates receive a certificate, with a great group photo to match.

Details

Class Timetable

Classes run for the first 4 Tuesdays of the month, from 7.00 - 8.00pm

Cost

$120 - total for all 4 classes

Age

11-16 weeks. Puppies must have had their first two vaccinations and it must be at least 10 days since their second vaccination.

Students

Jodie’s students are between 11 and 16 weeks, a critical time in puppy development.

There is a limit of 10 students per class to allow for a happy class structure that isn’t crowded.

With this number of students per class, we are better able to work with each individual puppy’s personality and owner's needs.

Requirements

Future students of Puppy Preschool must have had their second vaccination at least 10 days prior to the class and are required to come to class with a flat collar and a lead. Please check that choker chains are not used.

Please phone the clinic to secure your booking 02 6884 9900.

Our Teacher

Jodie Lardner-Smith runs our monthly classes at the clinic.

Jodie has developed the pre-eminent puppy school with consistent, terrific results. Families and parents alike, gain an understanding of practical training tips that launch pups social careers. Jodie is also an excellent veterinary nurse at the Zoo and doubles as our bird anaesthetist. She has a great depth of understanding of puppy antics plus an unrattleable temperament to match.

“It gives puppies the opportunity to interact with people and other animals in a safe environment. We encourage all the family to participate.”

A note from Jodie

Our classes give puppies the opportunity to interact with people and other animals in a safe environment and since we encourage all the family (including the kids) to come along, we are able to update the whole family on the latest pet health info, background to basic good behaviour and talk about behavioural issues that are important to be aware of.

This is when you can have the most positive impact during a critical stage of their learning life. The influence of a positive learning experience at this age can set them up for the future.

Classes get the puppies to process what is required of them. This type of learning helps them learn more readily and respond more effectively to commands.

Positive rewards are better than forcing the puppies to do their required tasks. It also encourages the bond between the puppy and the owners and it makes the process of correction for things like mouthing, jumping and other behaviours that may be an issue in later life easier to control.

If you have any questions about our Puppy Preschool program, contact the clinic on 02 6884 9900.