Training Overview
At Barkefellers, we believe that dogs should always be treated fairly and humanely. Our approach to training begins with an understanding that training should enhance and strengthen the relationship between a person and their dog.
All of our training courses employ positive reinforcement techniques to elicit and reward desired behaviors. Training collars and/or corrections are used only when the dog has an understanding of the exercises and after the trainer is taught the proper use of these training devices.
Benefits of Training:
- BETTER BEHAVIOR. By becoming your dog’s Pack Leader, you will be better able to communicate and enforce good standards of behavior – at home, at the vet, on a walk or at the dog park!
- SAFETY. By ensuring that your dog is properly trained and socialized, you can trust your pet to safely interact with other pets, children and other adults.
- HAPPIER PETS. You will learn how to better identify and meet your dog’s needs, as well as how to correct them without the need for constant yelling or ‘punishment.’
- HAPPIER PEOPLE. Mutual understanding and respect between owner and dog reduces stress on both and promotes a more pleasant daily co-existence!
- IT’S GOOD EXERCISE. For people and dogs!
- IT’S FUN!
Requirements for Participation
- Barkefellers Registration
- Proof of Vaccinations
What Should You Bring?
- TREATS. Bring soft treats that will really motivate your dog. These can be purchased at the Boutique in Barkefellers’ Lobby.
- COLLAR & LEASH Bring a 6 foot leash (not a ‘zip’ or retractable leash) and the collar your dog normally wears on walks. The trainer will recommend another collar if needed. Collars and Leashes are available for purchase at the Boutique in Barkefellers’ Lobby.
- POTTY BAGS Accidents happen!
- FAMILY MEMBERS Children over the age of 8 and other members of the household who are interested in learning and willing to participate.
- YOUR DOG Don’t feed him/her right before class and make sure pets have a chance to potty prior to arriving for class.
Our Trainers:
BOBBI SICCARDI
Bobbi has been training and showing dogs since 1987. She is an approved obedience judge for the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA). She has been training obedience classes with Mary Janek for the past 15 years. The relationship she shares with students in her classes can be described as encouraging. She, like Mary, is very patient with each person and dog and will stay well after class is over to address any additional concerns or questions from the class participants. She also participates, and has instructed, in other dog activities such as agility, herding, tracking, and conformation. Bobbi is owned by her Belgian Tervurens, Keeper and River.
MARY JANEK
Mary has been training and showing dogs since 1969. She has been involved in all facets of the canine world including teaching grooming school and judging dog shows as an AKC and ASCA approved obedience judge. Individuals who have taken instruction from Mary are impressed with her knowledge and expertise about dog behavior and her ability to help put people at ease when they are beginning their journey into training their canine companion. She has also instructed and participated in the dog sports of agility, conformation, tracking and herding. Mary is owned by her Belgian Malinois, Quake, her Miniature Schnauzer, Grace, her Pomeranian, Harry, and her Miniature Poodle, Jag.
KAREN BALES
Karen has been training dogs since 1996 when she started with a Bassett Hound. In 1997 she had an Australian Shepherd that motivated her to pursue training further where she began to learn about behaviors in dogs, training for family pets, and competition training. Karen has a Rottweiler and two Australian Shepherds and has trained and competed with them in Agility, Obedience, Rally Obedience, and Herding. In doing so, she has achieved many titles. Karen has belonged to her local dog training club for over 10 years where she taught Agility, Competition Obedience and Rally Obedience, Family Dog, Canine Good Citizens (CGC), and Puppy classes. She served on the board in all levels until just recently. Karen has always been in good standing with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and became certified as an AKC CGC evaluator. She has attended many seminars over the years to gain the knowledge needed to compete and teach.
Email us at frontdesk@barkefellers.com with your name, phone number and a description of your dog - breed, weight, age & name. Or Call us at (317) 881-1888.
