GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — Little Traverse Bay Humane Society announced it has expanded pet services to include professional dog training for the community, offering the training as stand-alone services or as add-ons to boarding and grooming appointments.
The training services are led by training professionals who use positive reinforcement and Fear Free techniques, according to the humane society’s Director of Development Jessica Mendezona.
The humane society said the training is designed to build communication, confidence and real-world skills for dogs and their families.
Little Traverse Bay Humane Society said it is offering a 15-minute on-site tutor session focused on one of four topics:
- The Basics, which includes loose-leash walking, basic obedience, polite greetings and social skills;
- Cooperative Care, which includes grooming and exam readiness such as nail trims and handling; Pattern Games, which includes structured exercises to build recall, impulse control and confidence;
- Extra Curriculars, which includes agility, scent work, tricks and enrichment.
The humane society also said it is offering a 1-hour AP tutor session for more in-depth, hands-on training, along with Canine Good Citizen prep sessions, pre-tests and official evaluations. Virtual and in-home behavior consultations will also be available.
“Our goal is to help dogs and their people thrive together,” said Sarah Schertel, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, FFCP, senior director of operations at Little Traverse Bay Humane Society. “We use science-based, positive reinforcement methods that strengthen trust and reduce stress. Whether a family is working on polite manners, cooperative care, or preparing for the Canine Good Citizen test, we’re here to create a plan that supports long-term success.”
The humane society said the expanded training services support its mission of keeping more dogs successfully and confidently in their homes.
More information on pricing and scheduling is available at ltbhs.org/training or by emailing training@ltbhs.org.
Little Traverse Bay Humane Society is a nonprofit animal welfare organization serving Northern Michigan. It provides sheltering, adoption, veterinary services, community outreach and professional training.
For more information on Little Traverse Bay Humane Society, click here.