Group Classes
Canine Connections offers group dog training classes for mental health professionals hoping to train their dog as a therapy dog, or for those MHPs already working with a canine co-therapist. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and create a fun and supportive environment in which you and your dog will learn essential therapy dog skills alongside professional peers. Whether you are just getting started on your training journey or already passed your therapy dog test and are looking for opportunities to expand your training knowledge while deepening your bond with your dog, group classes are a great option!
Classes are held at the Professional Therapy Dogs of Colorado location in Aurora (499 N Vaughn St, Aurora, CO 80011) and are capped at 4 dogs.
IMPORTANT COVID-19 INFORMATION: Masks are required at all times in class, and students should try their best to adhere to social distancing guidelines whenever possible. I ask that only one person attend class with each dog to keep the number of people in the room to a minimum. If you are feeling unwell or recently came into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, please stay home and contact me immediately so we can discuss your options.
UPCOMING CLASSES (ON HOLD DUE TO COVID-19)
Therapy Dog Foundations ($150)
NEXT SESSION BEGINS: TBD *Please email me at mycanineconnections@gmail.com to be contacted when dates are posted for this class.
4-week course, 1 hour each week
Prerequisites: I recommend that dogs complete a Pre-Screen Test with Professional Therapy Dogs of Colorado prior to enrolling in this class (to assess whether or not your dog has the correct temperament for therapy work). Please contact PTDC to schedule your pre-screen if you have not already done so.
Description: This class is designed to introduce you and your dog to basic positive reinforcement training concepts and techniques while practicing some of the foundational skills that appear on most therapy dog tests. Skills introduced in this course include: relax on a mat, eye contact, sit, down, stay, leave-it, coming when called, loose leash walking and more!
Prefer to train in the comfort of your own home? Consider registering for my Therapy Dog Foundations E-Course instead!
Tricks for Therapy Dogs ($100)
NEXT SESSION BEGINS: TBD *Please email me at mycanineconnections@gmail.com to be contacted when dates are posted for this class.
3-week course, 45 minutes each week
Prerequisites: I recommend that dogs complete a Pre-Screen Test with Professional Therapy Dogs of Colorado prior to enrolling in this class (to assess whether or not your dog has the correct temperament for therapy work). Please contact PTDC to schedule your pre-screen if you have not already done so. Basic understanding of clicker training is helpful, and your dog should already be proficient in basic skills such as sit and down.
Description: There’s nothing quite like a therapy dog performing a cute trick to bring smiles to the faces of clients of all ages! Whether you plan to deliberately incorporate trick training into your sessions with clients (for confidence-building, developing problem solving/teamwork skills, learning how to deal with frustration, etc.) or if you are just looking for an opportunity to expand your training skills and knowledge while deepening your bond with your dog, this class is for you! This course will cover the basic “recipe” for teaching tricks, with specific emphasis placed on spin, take a bow, shake a paw, sit pretty, and roll over.