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Five weeks to calmer, well behaved dog

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cassandra Locke
  • 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Dog obedience classes will be held at the Community Center Aug. 1 at 8 p.m. Classes are each expected to last for one hour.

Puppies need to be at least four months old and the dog handler must be at least 16 years old. Younger dog handlers may attend, however a parent or guardian would need to be present at the class.

"The relationship between the dog and their owner will be enhanced," said Veronica Richie, the instructor for the upcoming classes. She has been a dog trainer for more than 10 years.

She said after completing the class, the dogs will be more fun to be around, and by learning the psychology of dogs, it will be easier for an owner to re-
late to their furry friend.

"The dog will be calmer and have better manners," said Ms. Richie.

Proper dog obedience training is essential to preventing canine behavioral problems. A dog who never receives obedience training is more likely to become unpredictable, aggressive and uncontrollable, according to www.dogfocused.com.

A dog's bark, roar, howl, whimper, whine and growl can be distinguished and understood with some effort, according to the Dog Owner's Guide at www.canismajor.com. Owners must learn the difference between these sounds to know the dog's mood.

There will be five classes, and at the end of the course, the dog will receive a graduation certificate. The dog's handler must bring a copy of the pet's immunization records. All participating dogs need to be up-to-date on all of their vaccinations. Handlers should also bring water and a water dish for
their dogs.

To register or for specifics on what type of leash and collar to bring to the class, call Ms. Richie at 476-2812.