Course Details
There is no escaping it. Our dogs will be under pressure in the ring. So let’s prepare them for it! Many people are not aware that the majority of errors in the ring are the result of some sort of pressure. Dogs feel pressure from the environment, the judge, barriers (ring gates, walls) and often from us. When we recognize pressure, we can teach our dogs to master it. In the past we taught our dogs to just endure it. Now I change my dog’s relationship to pressure. I want pressure to cue a positive conditioned emotional response. I teach it using a variety of fun games that dog’s love and find empowering. The games build confidence and resilience that carry over into the ring environment. The games can benefit dogs of all ages, experience levels and temperaments.
Teaching Approach
This class will have written and video spoken lectures each week. Each lecture will be broken down into small pieces. There will be video examples demonstrating all exercises. Because everyone has their own learning style, I encourage students to move at their own pace. I understand that each dog and handler are unique and do my best to accommodate their needs. Students will need to move around with their dogs as is required for typical exercises pertaining to your sport. I will work with you to modify the exercises to your abilities. A few of the games will require quick physical movement from the trainer for short periods and distances.
Instructor: Petra FordPetra (she/her) graduated from Rutgers School of Health Related Professions 17 years ago with a degree in physical therapy and has experience working with an extremely varied caseload including pediatric through geriatric clients with a vast range of diagnoses. Her areas of expertise included in-patient rehabilitation, orthopedics and neurology. (Click here for full bio and to view Petra's upcoming courses)
