This valuable information is being brought to you by the experts at St. Hubert's Animal Center.
St. Hubert's is a nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to the humane treatment of companion
animals and provides services that support the human-animal bond. Our two animal shelters provide safe
refuge and compassionate care for 5,000 lost, abandoned, abused, and injured animals every year.
Aware that the majority of dogs surrendered to shelters are given up due to behaviors that their owners
find unacceptable, in 1984 St. Hubert's established a dog training school, which is now one of the
largest in the country.
In order to enhance the relationship between dog and owner, St. Hubert's offers training courses designed
to educate the owner as well as the dog. A basic understanding of the canine thought process, coupled
with instruction on showing the pet what is expected of him in a positive and humane manner are paramount
to the development of a social animal with good manners. A dog that responds willingly to his or her
owner's direction and can behave well in a variety of settings becomes a cherished family member and is
much less likely to be given up by its owner. Providing training is an integral part of St. Hubert's
mission and helps ensure that canine companions remain happily in their homes throughout their lives.
The St. Hubert's Dog Training School is co-directed by Pia Silvani and Anne Paul. Pia Silvani is a
nationally recognized trainer and vice president of the board of directors for the Association of Pet Dog
Trainers, an international organization comprised of more than 1,800 professional members. Anne Paul, who
has trained many dogs that have gone on to become National Champions, directs the Competitive Sports
Program and began training dogs in 1978. With a staff of more than 15 professional dog trainers who
employ positive reinforcement techniques, St. Hubert'sDog Training School graduates more than 3,000 dogs
a year from obedience classes. We offer the following classes: kindergarten puppy training, basic
obedience, advanced obedience, super advanced obedience, back to basics, feisty fidos, agility and
competition training.
To further our goal of helping people with pet problems, we are currently producing a series of audio
tapes to address routine behavioral problems. The series, called "Dogs Will Be Dogs" will be accompanied
with a training booklet outlining the main points of the program and offering guidance on finding
reputable trainers in your area. The topics scheduled for production are: The Art of Housebreaking, Good
House Manners, My Destructive Dog and Leader of the Pack. These tapes are designed for new and
experienced dog owners alike to help establish consistent household rules to keep dogs on their best
behavior. The Humane Society of the United States has commended St. Hubert's for its dedication to
helping dogs and cats stay in the lifelong homes they deserve with responsible care takers. If you are
interested in receiving more information on the audio series "Dogs Will Be Dogs" please e-mail us at
emathews@sthuberts.org and we will notify you as soon as the
tapes are released and available for purchase.
