Best Paw Forward Newsletter
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Events
Other News
Testimonials Wanted!: Have you worked with Frank or Lori Verni or Jason Reitmeyer individually or attended our group classes? If you were pleased with the training, would you be willing to provide a brief testimonial? We are updating our testimonial page of our website! If you wouldn’t mind taking a moment, we would appreciate if you would send us a sentence or two describing your experience with us, please send your name and town, your dog’s name, age and breed or mix of breeds to: info@bestpawonline.com. Thank you!
Group Classes
Held at Hunt Community Center in Holly Springs. Indoor, climate controlled classroom and outdoor, fenced and lighted practice area. For more info or to register, download the registration form for the class you’d like to attend and follow the instructions. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call us at (919)557-2853.
Advance Registration is Required! CLASSES ARE FILLED ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS, UPON RECEIPT OF COMPLETED REGISTRATION FORMS AND TUITION!
These are small groups, so they fill up fast. Hurry to register!
We have recently expanded our choices of classes! Scroll down to find the ones you’re looking for! We offer:
- Beginner’s Obedience/Manners (Spring session begins 4/17/08)
- Advanced Obedience/Canine Good Citizen (Spring session begins 4/15/08))
- Puppy Socialization Class (Occasional… no session for spring… consider attending Beginner’s Obedience/Manners instead.)
- Agility Just For Fun (Spring session begins 4/15/08)
- Scaredy Dogs Confidence Building Class (Occasional… no session for spring… consider attending Agility Just for Fun or Beginner’s Obedience/Manners instead.)
Class Descriptions, Times, Additional Info:
Beginner’s Obedience/Manners: BEGINS 4/17/08, HURRY, WILL FILL FAST! UPDATE: AS OF 4/12/08, THERE ARE JUST A FEW SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR THESE CLASSES. IF INTERESTED IN ATTENDING, PLEASE PHONE US TO ARRANGE LAST MINUTE REGISTRATION. 557-2853.
This class is for puppies who have finished their vaccines (16 weeks or older), and adult dogs. Curriculum will include socialization with people and dogs, beginner’s obedience commands of heel, sit, down, stay and come, and manners such as jumping, nipping, excessive barking, etc. Taught by Jason Reitmeyer, Certified Master Dog Trainer. Have fun while teaching your dog to put his Best Paw Forward!
Tuition: $110 for 6 classes.
CHOOSE ONE:
Class dates are EITHER:
Thursdays, 6:30 - 7:30pm: 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, & 5/22. (For this class, download the registration form here: Beginner Spring 6:30 Registration)
OR
Thursdays, 7:45 - 8:45pm: 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, & 5/22. (For this class, download the registration form here: Beginner Spring 7:45 Registration)
To Register: Simply download this registration form above (next to the class you’re interested in), print it, fill it out, sign it and mail it to us with fully paid tuition. If you have questions, you may also contact us.
*See group class policies below for information on inclement weather, missed classes and more.
Puppy Socialization Class: Occasional… no spring session. Consider attending Beginner’s Obedience/Manners instead.
This course consists of two classes of one hour each and is for puppies & their owners. Puppies will socialize with dogs, humans, a variety of items, noises, & more (including a vacuum cleaner and thunderstorm noises!). Humans will also learn how to socialize their dogs on their own outside of class. Taught by Jason Reitmeyer, Certified Master Trainer. All puppies must be healthy. Register early… these classes will fill fast! Have fun while teaching your dog to put his Best Paw Forward.
Dates and Times:
Wednesdays, 7:45 - 8:45 pm, October 10 & 17. Download registration form for this class here.
Tuition: $25. tuition includes one dog and up to two humans. Additional humans $3. each.
To Register: Simply download the correct registration form above, print it, fill it out, sign it and mail it to us with fully paid tuition. If you have questions, you may also contact us.
*See group class policies below for information about inclement weather, missed classes and more.
Scaredy Dogs Confidence Building Class: Occasional… no spring session. Consider attending Agility Just for Fun or Beginner’s Obedience/Manners instead.
This course consists of two classes of one hour each and is for timid, skittish or shy dogs or puppies & their owners. Confidence will be built through socialization, light agility and some obedience. Owners will learn to understand how dogs think so they will be able to continue to build their dog’s confidence on their own outside of class. A good level of confidence is necessary to prevent/solve many behavior problems including separation anxiety, excessive barking, fear aggression and more. Taught by Jason Reitmeyer, Certified Master Trainer. This class is not appropriate for dogs whose fears have developed into an aggression problem already. Register early… this class will fill fast! Have fun while teaching your dog to put his Best Paw Forward.
Dates and Time: Wednesdays, 7:45 - 8:45 pm, September 19 & 26.
Tuition: $25. tuition includes one dog and up to two humans. Additional humans $3. each.
To Register: Simply download this registration form, print it, fill it out, sign it and mail it to us with fully paid tuition. If you have questions, you may also contact us.
*See group class policies below for information on inclement weather, missed classes and more!
Advanced Obedience/Canine Good Citizen: Spring session begins 4/15/08. UPDATE: SORRY, CLASS FULL. PLEASE CONSIDER ATTENDING ONE OF OUR OTHER CLASSES, OR PLAN ON ATTENDING OUR SUMMER SESSION.
This class is for dogs who already know their basic obedience commands, but need more practice with distractions. Teach your pet to improve their self-control in high distraction situations, move toward off-leash training, and receive Canine Good Citizen test/certificate at end. Class is fun, as games are integrated into the curriculum, and geared for a well-behaved family pet. CGC test optional (included). Your dog does not have to be "perfect" to attend this class… after all, if they were "perfect," we wouldn’t need to have a class! However, your dog should already know the five basic obedience commands of heel, sit, down, stay and come. Taught by Lori Verni, Certified Master Dog Trainer. Have fun while teaching your dog to put his Best Paw Forward!
Tuition: $110 for 6 classes.
Class dates are: Tuesdays, 7:45 - 8:45 pm: 4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13, & 5/20.
To Register: Simply download this registration form, print it, fill it out, sign it and mail it to us with fully paid tuition. If you have questions, you may also contact us.
*See group class policies below for information on inclement weather, missed classes and more.
Agility Just For Fun: Spring session begins 4/15/08 and class WILL surely fill fast! Register now!
UPDATE: AS OF 4/12/08, THERE ARE ONLY 3 SPOTS LEFT IN THIS CLASS! IF INTERESTED IN ATTENDING, PLEASE PHONE US TO ARRANGE LATE REGISTRATION. 557-2853.
This new class was added last summer due to popular demand and it was a huge hit!… We expect it will fill fast! Have fun teaching your pet to navigate a variety of agility obstacles which include jumps, a-frame wall, balance beam, tunnel, teeter totter, tire jump and more! It is best if your dog knows some basic commands but prior training is not necessary. Agility is an excellent way to keep your intelligent dog’s mind busy, build confidence in timid dogs, burn off extra energy or simply just to have fun with your pet! Taught by Jason Reitmeyer, Certified Master Dog Trainer. Have fun while teaching your dog to put his Best Paw Forward!
Tuition: $125. for 6 classes.
Class dates are: Tuesdays, 6:30 - 7:30 pm: 4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13, & 5/20.
To Register: Simply download this registration form, print it, fill it out, sign it and mail it to us with fully paid tuition. If you have questions, you may also contact us.
*Please see group class policies below for information on inclement weather, missed classes and more.
**Make up policy (below) applies to this class with the understanding that in the event that we do not have another agility class to make up, you can come to one of our obedience or socialization classes instead.
***Agility Just for Fun course is not regulation size for competition. But it is just the right size for fun!
Group Class Policies
*Make-up class policy: If you need to miss one class, you will be able to attend a "make-up" class. (Except for those above that say "no make-ups".) Make-ups must be scheduled within three months. In order to control class size, no one will be admitted without having called to arrange the spot. Maximum 1 missed/made-up class per session. No refunds.
*Refund policy: There are no refunds given at any time, for any reason.
*Inclement weather policy: In the event of weather cancellations, we will follow the Holly Springs Parks & Rec. recommendations for closure. If a class is cancelled, we will do our best to reschedule it for a time that’s convenient for everyone, however, there will be no refunds.
To receive our registration form via postal mail, to ask questions, or to reserve your dog or puppy’s spot in a class, simply contact us. (Be sure to tell us which class you’re interested in so we can best answer your questions and/or send you the correct registration forms.)
Want to host an event? Here are some of the things we offer:
Mini House Training Seminar with Book Signing: Lori Verni, Certified Master Dog Trainer and author of "Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies & Adult Dogs" will provide a 30 minute seminar about House Training, a 15 minute Q&A, and stick around to sign books and answer questions. A great way to get some traffic to your store, animal hospital, rescue organization, etc. Make money on the books too! Contact us for more info.
Children’s Safety Around Pets program: Lori Verni, Certified Master Dog Trainer of Best Paw Forward Dog Education can provide your group with an age-appropriate presentation on how kids can be safe around their own dog, dogs when visiting, and what to do if a strange dog approaches. Fun, educational, and the kids even get to meet our mascot, Sam… a gentle Labrador Retriever, and pet him if they want. We also provide educational worksheets for each child, and a free gift too. Great program for preschools, elementary schools, cub scouts, boy scouts, girl scouts, church groups, and more. Contact us for more info.
Full Length Seminar: You provide the space and refreshments, we provide the education. Many topics available including: House Training, Puppy Head Start, Dog’s Fears & Phobias, Temperament Testing for Rescue, Selecting a Dog, Preventing & Alleviating Behavior Problems, General Q&A, and more. Contact us for more info.
Fun Dog or Business Event: Want to have a fun event at your animal hospital, grooming shop, pet supply store, or any other business? We can help put the whole thing together including getting additional vendors, advertising and press releases, decorating, finding appropriate giveaways, and more! Contact us for more info.
Want to sell Lori Verni’s book at your business or through your rescue group? Here’s how:
Simple… buy the books wholesale from the author directly and re-sell at retail for a profit. Great way to provide educational info for your clients/customers, while making some profit for your business. Excellent fund raiser for rescue too!
"Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies & Adult Dogs" is the compilation of over 10 years of experience specializing in family pets and rescued dogs. Whether a puppy who is first learning, or an adult dog who has had ongoing confusion, every possible dilemma or question is answered in this book! Contact us for more info on purchasing books, including a free laminated color poster to hang up and more!
What Have We Done For You Lately?
Here are some things we’ve done for your community!
Donated a basket full of prizes, including a gift certificate for free training, toys, treats, and more to each of the following fundraisers:
- Triangle Beagle Rescue, 2005 & 2006
- Second Chance Pet Adoptions
- Holly Springs Moravian Church
- Holly Springs Women’s Club, 2005, 2006 & 2007
- North Carolina Schnauzer Rescue
- Ducks Unlimited Retriever Hunting Club
- Apex Elementary School
- Community Partners Charter High School
- Holly Springs Elementary School, 2005 & 2006
- Sunset Ridge Swim Team
- Provided free training for three dogs rescued by good samaritan
- Pawfect Match Animal Rescue
- Relay for Life of South Wake to benefit American Cancer Society
Performed FREE educational seminars/presentations:
- Cary Jaycees
- For Rescue Groups: Temperament Testing & Behavior Problems Seminars
- Dog’s Fears & Phobias, Cary/Holly Springs location
- Preventing or Alleviating Behavior Problems, Fuquay-Varina 2005
- Dog’s Separation Anxiety, Cary/Holly Springs
- Preventing or Alleviating Behavior Problems, Cary/Holly Springs, 2005 & 2006
- Puppy Head Start, Cary/Holly Springs
- House Training Puppies or Adult Dogs, Cary/Holly Springs
- House Training Discussion & Book Signing Event, Holly Springs
- Triangle Greyhound Rescue, Fears & Phobias
- Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Rescuing a Dog, Holly Springs
- Youth Education: Fuquay-Varina Youth Initiative: Pet-related Careers
- House Training Discussion & Book Signing, Three Dog Bakery, Apex
- How to Start a Small Business: Athens Drive High School Civics and Economics Class, 2007.
- North Carolina Schnauzer Rescue Q&A Educational Training Presentation, Fall 2007.
Performed Children’s Safety Around Pets or other youth education program, including free gift and educational worksheets for each child at:
- Little Gym, Fuquay-Varina, 2005 & 2006
- Little Dreamer’s Preschool, Cary, 2005, 2006 & 2007
- Little Dreamer’s Preschool, Holly Springs, 2004 & 2005
- Holly Springs Learning Center
- Brownie Troop #1584, Holly Springs
- Cub Scouts, Holly Springs
- Entire 2nd Grade of Davis Dr. Elementary, Cary, 2006
- Fuquay-Varina Youth Initiative, Middle School After School Program, Career Counseling
Participated in Community Events, giving away free gifts, info, and prizes of free training:
- Apex Today & Yesteryear Festival
- Dog Day in the Park, 2005
- Dog Day in the Park, 2006 (coordinated & attended) See article here: http://www.fuquay-varinaindependent.com/articles/2006/05/05/holly_springs_sun/news/dog%20day.txt
- Dog Day in teh Park, 2007, (coordinated & attended).
- Schnauzer Palooza
- Crescent Bank Dog Lover’s Day
- Avalon Peaks Apartments Dog Lover’s Day
- Arbor Creek Dog Day Afternoon
- Hollyfest, Holly Springs, 2004, 2005 & 2006
- Dog Lover’s Open House at Country Gardens Bed & Biscuit
- Holly Springs Teacher’s Appreciation Luncheon, 2005 & 2006
- Fuquay-Varina Educator’s Appreciation Event
- Doggy Valentine Party
- Best Paw Forward Dog Smile Contest, 3 winners received FREE training!
- Furry Friends Fall Festival at Country Gardens Bed & Biscuit Pet Resort
- Borders Books Educator Appreciation Event
- Canine Carnival at Crowder Park, Fall 2007.
Other public speaking appearances:
- Holly Springs Cultural Center Theater, Jan, 2007, "Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies & Adult Dogs" seminar.
- Lectured at Nassau Community College, 1998 through 2003.
- North Carolina State University College of Animal Science, Feb. 2007.
- Fuquay-Varina Rotary Club, March 2007
Appeared on Sunny 93.9FM "Ask the Expert", answering live questions about your pets:
- June 2005
- August 2005
- November 2005
- January 2006
- April 2006
Other media appearances:
- November 2005, "The Kevin Miller Show", News Talk Radio 680am.
- December 2005, Appeared on NBC-17 special "Keeping Up With the Joneses"
- April 2006, Appeared on NBC-17 for expert input about rescue dogs.
- November 2006, Featured in Cary News, front page: http://www.carynews.com/102/story/4788.html
