Dog Training
Your puppy has a lot to learn–and maybe your adult dog does, too! At Riversbend Animal Hospital, our dog training helps you build a deeper bond with your dog through better communication.
Debbie is an evaluator of the American Kennel Club (AKC). Through Debbie your dog can be tested for the S.T.A.R. Puppy Program, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Urban Canine Good Citizen, Advanced Canine Good Citizen (CGCA), and Trick Dog Titles including: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Performer, Elite Performer. Debbie is also a Tester/Observer for Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
Debbie competes in AKC Agility and CPE Agility with her Boxer, Journey. Her youngest dog, a Shetland Sheepdog named Sketch, is in training for competition in agility. Debbie enjoyed competing with her dog Riley in AKC RALLY Obedience. Over the years Riley, Kegan, Hannah, Rusty, Zoe, Lexy, Traveler, and Britta have worked with her as volunteer Therapy Dogs. Currently, Zubie, Annie, Journey, and Sketch volunteer with Debbie and her husband David as Therapy Dogs.
Contact our veterinary practice at (231) 796-3507, to se up your next cat and dog training consultation.
Beyond The Basics
After your dog has completed a basic dog training, they will be eligible for more advanced training. Here are more classes to enroll your dog in:
Obedience Level Two
Therapy Dog Preparation Class
Beginner Agility Class
Beginner RALLY Class
For this class, your dog should know their basic commands. Your dog will be taught the fundamentals of RALLY Obedience. RALLY is a fun and challenging sport whether you chose to compete in RALLY or not. Join us for a fun and exciting class!
Additionally, for more individualized training, private and semi-private lessons are available. These sessions are particularly useful if you struggle to communicate with your dog, or behavioral issues are preventing you from making progress.
For behavioral consultation, please contact Debbie Szot at (231) 796-3507 to arrange an appointment.
The What, When, And Where
We hold each class at our animal hospital at 745 Water Tower Road in Big Rapids. Keep in mind that class sizes are limited, and prepaid pre-registration is required.
Class times are as follows:
- Puppy classes, for puppies 12 weeks to 6 months of age, are once a week at 6:00 P.M. Tuesdays or Thursdays
- Adult dog classes, for dogs over 6 months, are once a week at 7:15 P.M. Tuesdays or Thursdays
- Therapy, Obedience Level Two, RALLY, and Agility classes are offered at different times throughout the year.
For more information on class schedules and costs, please consult our resource page here.
Please don’t hesitate to call (231) 796-3507 if you have any questions or concerns!
Veterinary Services
Below are all of the veterinary services we offer at Riversbend Animal Hospital. If you have any questions regarding our services, please feel free to call us.