Look at me Now

40% of dogs relinquished to shelters are reported to have at least one behavioural issue (Salman et al, 2000). By offering training for dogs available for adoption, we hope to increase the likelihood of successful adoption and avoid relinquishment or euthanasia due to behavioural problems.

Description

This is a specialized program that is offered free of charge to rescue organizations and shelters (staff, volunteers and foster parents).

"Look at me Now" classes are held indoors in a secure location with visual barriers if needed so that we can ensure safety and working below threshold at all times.

Curriculum

We will:
  • teach the basic behaviours such as sit, down, eye contact, hand targeting, go to mat
  • focus on loose-leash walking and proper tools & equipment
  • change the emotional reaction to handling
  • tackle typical behaviour problems like barking, jumping, and resource guarding
  • recognize and reward calming signals
  • desensitize them to the presence and proximity of other dogs

Goals

The goals of this course are:

  • to prepare shelter/rescue dogs for their forever home by teaching them basic behaviours through clicker-based training and force-free methods
  • to educate shelter / rescue staff, volunteers, and foster parents on canine behaviour
  • to increase the dogs' chances of adoption and lower the chance of relinquishment due to behaviour problems
  • to build the dogs' self confidence and give them an opportunity to be successful
Those who complete six weeks of training will receive:
  • discount on future training with Whatta Pup! with the forever home
  • discounts on training gear and tools for participating dogs (Spring 2012)
  • a percentage of the future training fee will be donated back to the original shelter/rescue organization
  • a report card outlining their progress and challenges
  • detailed handouts for all behaviours taught in class
  • a chance for success in their forever home

Requirements

Dogs who will benefit from this course are:
  • older than 16 weeks of age
  • available for adoption (or soon-to-be)
  • up to date on Distemper, Parvovirus and Rabies vaccinations or have a current titer test showing immunity
  • non-aggressive (resource guarding excepted)
  • spayed or neutered and dewormed (healthy)

Schedule

These classes are ongoing, offered twice per week and participants are asked to commit to six (6) classes in a three-month period. Participants are expected to bring the same dog to each of these classes. If the dog is adopted during the series, a new dog may be selected and another 6-class commitment is required. See schedule for details.

Pricing

This is our way of giving back to the community and doing our part to see that shelter dogs get adopted to forever homes, forever. There is no cost to registered rescue organization and shelters for these services.

Registration

Rescue organizations and animal shelters can contact us today to enroll staff, volunteers and foster parents for our January 2012 classes!

Policies

Participants must be 18 years or older and are required to attend a humans-only orientation prior to starting classes. A copy of each dog's behaviour assessment or temperament test from the shelter and proof of vaccinations is also required.

"Whatta Pup's "Look at Me Now" program will surely help shelter and rescue dogs not only to get adopted, but to stay in their homes. The classes teach important skills, but also ensure that the dogs are social with other dogs and with people. All I can say is, 'Whatta wonderful program!'"

- Nicole Wilde, CPDT,
Author "Help for Your Fearful Dog" and "Don't Leave Me"

"The 'Look At Me Now' program helps give dogs in need of rehoming the skills they need to be successful pets in their forever home. It's a fantastic resource for rescue groups and shelters. Staff and volunteers will have the opportunity to improve their handling and training skills along with improving the lives of dogs in their care. Whatta great program!"

- Debbie Jacobs CPDT-KA, CAP2,
Author of “A Guide To Living With & Training A Fearful Dog” p>

Whatta Pup’s Look at me Now program is an original and effective approach to the rehabilitation of rescued dogs. Not only is Caryn a caring and compassionate trainer, her knowledge of behaviour and training skills are second to none. Caryn’s program offers a unique opportunity for rescue organizations and shelters, and those who take advantage will play an active roll in saving the lives of many dogs.

- Norma Jeanne Laurette,
Founder & Chair of IPDTA

Special thanks to Pat Miller of Peaceable Paws, Debbie Jacobs of Fearful Dogs, Nicole Wilde of Gentle Guidance and Sara Reusche of Paws Abilities Dog Training for their input, assistance, and inspiration.