AnimalSense Classes

We strive to provide a variety of classes to rival the number of breeds, ages and temperaments of dogs who take them! Do you have a dog that tends to shy away more often than not? Don’t miss “Confidence Building”. Do you want your Boston Terrier to meet some fellow Bostonians? Consider our exclusive “Boston Terriers Only” class. Check out our class schedule below for more specifics and to find the one that best fits you and your dog’s unique needs. No matter which you select, you’ll benefit from our limited class size that enables you and your dog to get a great deal of one-on-one attention.

Questions? Email us at classes@animalsense.com

Winter 2009 Session

January 10th - February 18th
As you may already know, we love the opportunity to meet and greet all new and returning clients before classes begin. To make that possible, we are re-introducing our All-Class Open House Orientation. The Open House Orientation this session will take place before classes start at our Home Studio in Oak Park on Thursday January 8th from 7:00 - 8:00 PM. Whether this is your first or fiftieth AnimalSense class experience, it is a do not miss. Refreshments and humor guaranteed. Reminder that the Open House is for our clients of the two-legged variety only.

We will send you all the juicy details upon receiving your class registration. Our Winter Session is priced at $225.00.;

Class	Time	Location	Trainer
Sundays: January 11th - February 15th
Snow Dogs	1:15pm - 2:15 pm	Various Locations	Amy Blum
The AnimalSense cure for cabin fever! Need some motivation to stay active with your pooch this winter? In this fun outdoor adventure class you can keep fit with Fido, teach your pup some new skills, and get customized training and behavior advice, all while enjoying the fresh air and exploring some of the best dog-friendly areas in Chicagoland. Appropriate for dogs of all ages, fitness, and training levels, and a great confidence builder for shy dogs. The first class will meet at our Oak Park Canine Learning Center and subsequent classes will meet at various locations in and around Chicago.
Say Hello	10:15 am - 11:15 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Amy Blum
This course is designed to help you teach your dog polite greeting behavior. We have all felt that tinge of embarrassment when the doorbell rings and our pooch jumps up on the guests. All in the past! This class will teach your pup to keep four paws on the floor, and more!
Focus! Distraction Training For the Real World	11:30 am - 12:30 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Amy Blum
Distractions - those crazy things in life that steal your dog's attention when you need it most. Instead, teach your dog that YOU are the most important thing in their world. Come prepared to work - the results will amaze you! 8 months and up.
Mondays: No Monday Classes this Session
No classes on Mondays this session.
Tuesdays: January 13th - February 17th
Say Hello	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Mary Scheffke
This course is designed to help you teach your dog polite greeting behavior. We have all felt that tinge of embarrassment when the doorbell rings and our pooch jumps up on the guests. All in the past! This class will teach your pup to keep four paws on the floor, and more!
Come Anytime!	7:45 pm - 8:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Alternating AnimalSense Trainers
Missed the start of the session? Have a "fluid" schedule? Need a makeup for a missed class or a refresher on a particular skill? Join us for this drop-in class customized to the needs of those in attendance. Topics may include basic commands, how to put any behavior on cue, safety commands, and door/guest manners. Fee $30 per meeting (free for currently enrolled students needing a makeup class).
Recall & Leash Manners	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
Walking nicely on leash and coming when called are two of the most essential skills for dogs and their owners. This class offers intensive training in both skills and encourages your dog to pay attention despite distractions. Most classes will be held outdoors. Eight months and up welcome. Please note: if your dog barks, lunges or otherwise acts unruly/aggressive on leash around other dogs, please contact the office before enrolling.
Fido Foundations	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
Not sure where to begin? How about with the basics! In Fido Foundation we will help you lay a basic foundation of skills. This class focuses on 4 specific skills: SIT, DOWN, STAY and GO TO PLACE. All great dog training begins from these 4 basic skills. We'll also address common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing�. This class is structured for dogs over 8 months old who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills.
Puppy Pre-School	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Paradise 4 Paws	Terri Klimek
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Wednesdays: January 14th - February 18th
Advanced Competitive Obedience	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
Have you ever thought about getting involved in competing with your dog in obedience? Are you ready for the next new challenge and bonding experience with your dog? Whether the show ring is in your future or not, this class offers amazing insight and instruction on the world of competitive obedience with a seasoned trainer. A great follow up to our Intro. to Competitive Obedience class or for those who think their dog is ready to take it to the next level!
Come Anytime!	5:30 pm - 6:15 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Alternating AnimalSense Trainers
Missed the start of the session? Have a "fluid" schedule? Need a makeup for a missed class or a refresher on a particular skill? Join us for this drop-in class customized to the needs of those in attendance. Topics may include basic commands, how to put any behavior on cue, safety commands, and door/guest manners. Fee $30 per meeting (free for currently enrolled students needing a makeup class).
Focus! Distraction Training For the Real World	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
Distractions - those crazy things in life that steal your dog's attention when you need it most. Instead, teach your dog that YOU are the most important thing in their world. Come prepared to work - the results will amaze you! 8 months and up.
Puppy Playlot (Small Breed)	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
An open session for your small breed puppy that provides opportunities for socialization and a chance for you to meet other dog lovers in a safe and controlled environment, overseen by expert dog trainers. Why freeze your tails off at Montrose beach when you can come to Puppy Playlot where your puppy can socialize in the constructive environment that they need! Your pup must be enrolled concurrently in Puppy Pre-School to be able to attend Puppy Playlot. This session is for small breeds only (under 20 lbs.). Class fee is $115.
Intro to Agility	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
This totally fun class offers an introduction to various agility obstacles including jumps, open and closed tunnels, weave poles, and the seesaw. Great for confidence building and dogs that love to problem solve. (Ok, you got us! ALL dogs like to problem solve) Just keep in mind that your pooch needs to be happy around other dogs in order to enroll in this fine class. 8 months and up welcome.
Puppy Pre-School	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Amy Blum
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Confidence Building for Shy Dogs	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Amy Blum
Is your dog a little more timid than most? Spooked by common things? Unsure about new people or new dogs? We can help! This class is designed to increase your dog's confidence levels with games, activities, relaxation techniques and more. Taught by our expert staff, we will guide and support you all the way! All ages welcome and a great 2nd class if you are the parent of a shy puppy.
Thursdays: No Thursday Classes this Session
No classes on Thursdays this session.
Fridays: No Friday Classes this Session
No classes on Fridays this session.
Saturdays: January 10th - February 14th
Puppy Pre-School	9:00 am - 10:00 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Jamie L. Damato, CPDT
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Puppy Grade School	10:15 am - 11:15 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Jamie L. Damato, CPDT
For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!
Puppy Pre-School	9:00 am - 10:00 am	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Puppy Grade School	10:15 am - 11:15 am	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!
Emergency Recall	12:30 pm - 1:30 pm	Paradise 4 Paws	Jamie L. Damato, CPDT
This course gives away our super secret recipe for perfect recall. One of our favorite classes, Emergency Recall will teach you how to get your pup to come back to you no matter what. Dropped your leash at the park? Fido slipped out the front door? Emergency Recall saves the day!
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy	11:30 am - 12:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is a new program designed to get dog owners and their puppies off to a good start! The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is an incentive program for loving dog owners who have taken the time to take their puppies through a basic training class (it is a great follow-up to our Puppy Pre-School and Puppy Grade School classes). Both pure and mixed breed puppies up to one year of age are welcome to enroll. This class includes S.T.A.R. testing, a S.T.A.R. Puppy Olympic-style Medal, a listing in the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy records and a frameable certificate. (AKC evaluation fee is included in the cost of the class). Highly recommended for people interested in animal-assisted therapy or for puppies who deserve recognition for their Socialization, Training, Activity and Responsibility!
Pugs Only	1:00 pm - 2:00 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Mary Scheffke
Our Pugs Only class will focus on all things Pug, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Pug-pals. Our Pugs Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we are supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Pug owners where it is all Pugs, all the time!
French Bulldogs Only	2:15 pm - 3:15 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Mary Scheffke
Our Frenchie Only class will focus on all things French Bulldog, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Frenchie-pals. Our French Bulldogs Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we�re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Frenchie owners where it's all Frenchies, all day!

2008 Holiday Session

November 3rd - December 21 (no classes November 24 - 30)
As you may already know, we love the opportunity to meet and greet all new and returning clients before classes begin. To make that possible, we are re-introducing our All-Class Open House Orientation. The Open House Orientation this session will take place before classes start at our Home Studio in Oak Park on Thursday October 30th from 7:00 - 8:00 PM. Whether this is your first or fiftieth AnimalSense class experience, it is a do not miss. Refreshments and humor guaranteed.

We will send you all the juicy details upon receiving your class registration. Our Special Holiday Session is priced at $225.00.;

Class	Time	Location	Trainer
Sundays: November 9 - December 21 (no classes November 30)
Canine Good Citizen CLASS FULL	10:15 am - 11:15 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Amy Blum
Ah, finally a test that your DOG has to study for! This wonderful class teaches the skills necessary to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Highly recommended for people interested in animal-assisted therapy or for dogs who deserve recognition for their good manners! Class includes CGC testing (test fee is included in the cost of the class). All ages welcome; please contact us at office@animalsense.com if you have any questions about the readiness of your dog for this class.
Advanced Focus CLASS FULL	11:30 am - 12:30 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Amy Blum
The most advanced class AnimalSense has ever offered, this class will introduce a wide variety of highly distracting situations using props brought in from the outside world for your dog to completely disregard. Advanced Focus students will work on hard core leave its and watch mes as well as long sit and down-stays. Students must have a solid base of training.
Confidence Building for Shy Dogs CLASS FULL	1:00 pm - 2:00 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Amy Blum
Is your dog a little more timid than most? Spooked by common things? Unsure about new people or new dogs? We can help! This class is designed to increase your dog's confidence levels with games, activities, relaxation techniques and more. Taught by our expert staff, we will guide and support you all the way! All ages welcome and a great 2nd class if you are the parent of a shy puppy.
Mondays: November 3 - December 15 (no classes November 24)
Focus! Distraction Training For the Real World CLASS FULL	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Amy Blum
Distractions - those crazy things in life that steal your dog's attention when you need it most. Instead, teach your dog that YOU are the most important thing in their world. Come prepared to work - the results will amaze you! 8 months and up.
Puppy Grade School CLASS FULL	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Amy Blum
For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!
Advanced Tricks and Games CLASS FULL	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Mary Scheffke
This class is for the dog (and owner) looking for your next training and behavior challenge in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment. Class activities range from off-leash recall work to field trips to innovative games and competitions. Prerequisites: Pooches must have at least a 75% reliable recall, be at least 1 year-old and are happy to see other dogs! Any questions � call our friendly office staff.
Tuesdays: November 4 - December 16 (no classes November 25)
No classes on Tuesdays this session.
Wednesdays: November 5 - December 17 (no classes November 26)
Fido Foundations CLASS FULL	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
Not sure where to begin? How about with the basics! In Fido Foundation we will help you lay a basic foundation of skills. This class focuses on 4 specific skills: SIT, DOWN, STAY and GO TO PLACE. All great dog training begins from these 4 basic skills. We'll also address common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing�. This class is structured for dogs over 8 months old who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills.
Intro to Competitive Obedience CLASS FULL	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Sally Bushwaller, CPDT
Have you ever thought about getting involved in competing with your dog in obedience? Are you ready for the next new challenge and bonding experience with your dog? Whether the show ring is in your future or not, this class offers amazing insight and instruction on how to get started down the road of competitive obedience with a seasoned trainer. Join us!
Fido Foundations CLASS FULL	6:30 pm - 7:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Mary Scheffke
Not sure where to begin? How about with the basics! In Fido Foundation we will help you lay a basic foundation of skills. This class focuses on 4 specific skills: SIT, DOWN, STAY and GO TO PLACE. All great dog training begins from these 4 basic skills. We'll also address common issues such as jumping, "counter surfing�. This class is structured for dogs over 8 months old who have never taken a class or need a refresher on basic skills.
Advanced Focus CLASS FULL	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Mary Scheffke
The most advanced class AnimalSense has ever offered, this class will introduce a wide variety of highly distracting situations using props brought in from the outside world for your dog to completely disregard. Advanced Focus students will work on hard core leave its and watch mes as well as long sit and down-stays. Students must have a solid base of training.
Canine Good Citizen CLASS FULL	6:45 pm - 7:45 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Sarah Rothberger
Ah, finally a test that your DOG has to study for! This wonderful class teaches the skills necessary to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Highly recommended for people interested in animal-assisted therapy or for dogs who deserve recognition for their good manners! Class includes CGC testing (test fee is included in the cost of the class). All ages welcome; please contact us at office@animalsense.com if you have any questions about the readiness of your dog for this class.
Come Anytime!	8:00 pm - 9:00 pm	Soggy Paws - Logan Square	Alternating AnimalSense Trainers
Missed the start of the session? Have a "fluid" schedule? Need a makeup for a missed class or a refresher on a particular skill? Join us for this drop-in class customized to the needs of those in attendance. Topics may include basic commands, how to put any behavior on cue, safety commands, and door/guest manners. Fee $30 per meeting (free for currently enrolled students needing a makeup class).
Thursdays: November 6 - December 18 (no classes November 27)
Come Anytime!	5:15 pm - 6:15 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Alternating AnimalSense Trainers
Missed the start of the session? Have a "fluid" schedule? Need a makeup for a missed class or a refresher on a particular skill? Join us for this drop-in class customized to the needs of those in attendance. Topics may include basic commands, how to put any behavior on cue, safety commands, and door/guest manners. Fee $30 per meeting (free for currently enrolled students needing a makeup class).
Golden Retrievers Only CLASS FULL	7:45 pm - 8:45 pm	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Terri Klimek
Our Golden Retriever Only class will focus on all things Golden, including special training issues, health and general care topics, as well as socialization with your fellow Golden-pals. Our Golden Retrievers Only class is open to any age dog within the breed, but puppies between 7 and 16 weeks need to also be enrolled in a Puppy Pre-School class. (We prefer it is an AnimalSense class, but we�re supportive of any positive training class in the city!) So, come hang out and train with other Golden owners where it's all Goldens, all day!
Fridays: November 7 - December 19 (no classes November 28)
No classes on Fridays this session.
Saturdays: November 8- December 20 (no classes November 29)
Puppy Pre-School CLASS FULL	9:00 am - 10:00 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Jamie L. Damato, CPDT
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Puppy Grade School CLASS FULL	10:15 am - 11:15 am	AnimalSense Oak Park Canine Learning Center	Jamie L. Damato, CPDT
For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!
Puppy Pre-School CLASS FULL	9:00 am- 10:00 am	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
For puppies up to 16 weeks old. We think this is the single most important class you will ever attend. Intensive socialization plus an introduction to basic cues such as attention, sit, and down will start you and your puppy off on the right paw. We will also discuss housetraining and crate training, handling, mouthing, chewing and more. See Puppy Playlot too!
Puppy Grade School CLASS FULL	10:15 am - 11:15 am	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
For puppies 4-8 months old. Your puppy is getting bigger and some behaviors that used to be cute suddenly aren't so cute any more. Come join us to practice basic manners, introduce polite leash walking, and continue socialization. We will also address owner concerns and questions about living harmoniously with a growing puppy. Lay a solid foundation for the rest of your puppy's life!
Focus! Distraction Training For the Real World CLASS FULL	11:30 am - 12:30 pm	Soggy Paws - Uptown	Sarah Rothberger
Distractions - those crazy things in life that steal your dog's attention when you need it most. Instead, teach your dog that YOU are the most important thing in their world. Come prepared to work - the results will amaze you! 8 months and up.