Achievements - Friends of the Animal Center Foundation

Dog Training | Kitty "Hotel" | Medical Support | Facility/Beautification

Paws to Train

FACF provides funding for a three part training program for Animal Center dogs called Paws to Train.

Please visit our support page to support this program.

During class, the dogs learn basic commands such as sit…

'Sit'

...and stay.

'Stay'

The goals of the Paws to Train program are:

1) To train Center dogs in basic obedience.

2) To
        a) provide a sense of purpose and an outlet for         Center dogs
        b) reduce stress for the dogs
        c) provide mental activity for the dogs
        d) provide socialization for the dogs with people             and other Center dogs.

3) To increase the adoptability of Center dogs.

4) To decrease the relinquishment of dogs due to behavior problems.

5) To educate owners to better understand dog behaviors and how to correct these behaviors.

6) To strengthen the human-animal bond.

7) To reduce the overall euthanasia rate.

The three components of Paws to Train are:

1. Paws to Train Volunteer Training Program. This program brings dog training to the Animal Center. The Paws to Train Volunteer Training is offered to all dog volunteers. Volunteers learn to use positive reinforcement training to teach dogs such skills as sit, down, stay, and come. Volunteers also learn how to work with dogs on kennel behavior to help dogs make a better first impression. Training helps to make our dogs more adoptable and ease the transition into a new home. Mental stimulation also helps to keep dogs mentally healthy and lowers the stress of living in a shelter. This program is funded by FACF.

2. Paws to Train Outreach Program. This program brings a dog waiting to be adopted from the Center to Spot & Co Dog Training for a 6 week Beginner Obedience class. Not only do the dogs enjoy a field trip away from the Center with a volunteer, they also gain the opportunity to learn and work on such skills as sit, come, stay, and down in a class setting. During the fifth week of classes, dogs get a chance to try out the agility equipment. Dogs in training are featured on the Animal Center's website. This program is funded by FACF and Spot & Co Dog Training.

3. Paws to Train Voucher Program. This program provides vouchers for discounted classes at Spot & Co Dog Training for dogs who could benefit from continued training after adoption. The program gives new owners a chance to bond with their new dogs, teaches them training skills, and provides another resource for questions. This program is funded by FACF and Spot & Co Dog Training.

If you would like to contribute to this effort, visit the support page to learn how.

Dog Training

Special thanks to Sue Pearson and SPOT & Co. Dog Training for supporting Paws to Train.