See Spot Sit, LLC

What is Puppy Kindergarten?

Puppy Kindergarten is a program aimed at creating well-socialized, well-mannered, happy companion dogs through early intervention. In Puppy Kindergarten, owners learn the basics of responsible ownership, how to socialize their puppies safely, how to teach basic commands and manners, and how to deal with the myriad of puppy issues such as housetraining, chewing, biting, etc. Puppies get positive exposure to people and other puppies in an environment that is safe and FUN!

What are the requirements for enrolling in Puppy Kindergarten?

Your puppy must be at least 8 but no older than 18 weeks at the time class begins. Your puppy must have been examined by and received a clean bill of health from a veterinarian. Specifically:

• Your pup must have received at least two sets of “puppy shots” (DHPP or DA₂PP).
• Pups must have had a negative stool check, or received appropriate treatment from the veterinarian.
• Pups must be free of external parasites (mites, fleas, etc.) at all times.
• Bordetella vaccine is recommended but not required.
• Rabies vaccine is not required to begin Kindergarten. It will be given by your veterinarian when your pup reaches the appropriate age.
• Please also help us minimize the risk of transmitting canine influenza by following the precautions listed here.

When is Puppy Kindergarten held?

Puppy Kindergarten meets weekly for 6 weeks. Each class meeting is an hour long. A new session begins every 3 weeks so that no puppy ever has to wait more than a few weeks to join a class. It is important for puppies to join a Kindergarten class as soon as possible! These precious weeks of your pup's life cannot be made up later. Days and times for Puppy Kindergarten vary depending on demand and enrollment. When enrollment is high, more than one session may be scheduled. Check the current schedule for upcoming sessions.

If a class meeting is cancelled due to weather or other reasons, a make-up class will be held at the end of the session. If you have to miss a class for any reason, try to have another family member bring the pup to class. There are no refunds or discounts for missed classes.

How do I enroll my puppy?

First, check the schedule to find out about availability of upcoming sessions. Then, you can download the registration form, fill it out, and send it in with the registration fee. Health certification information can be mailed at the same time, or brought to the first class. Your registration form and fees need to be received before your place is guaranteed. Sessions do fill up, so don't wait until the last minute to send your registration in. You will receive notification when your place in class is confirmed.

The fee is $80 per 6-week session. Cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the first class of the session will receive a full refund. Cancellations made between 48 hours prior to the first class of the session and the first class of the session will receive a 50% refund. No refunds of class fees will be made after the session begins. There is a $35 fee for returned checks.

What do I need to bring to class?

• Please bring your pup on a plain buckle collar and 6-foot leash.
• Do not feed your pup before class.
• Bring your pup’s favorite toy (usually a plush toy or squeaker).
• Bring some soft treats cut up into very small pieces (e.g., tiny pieces of hot dog, cheese, turkey, liver, etc. No biscuits, please.).

The whole family is welcome (and encouraged) to attend class. Puppy Kindergarten is a good opportunity for children to learn appropriate behavior around dogs, as well as for the puppies to become comfortable and happy around children. Although children will be permitted and encouraged to participate in the class, we require that an adult handle the pup during class.

©2002-2005, See Spot Sit, LLC
rev. 31 Oct. 2005