Instructor: Melissa Childs

No biographical information available

Classes by this instructor

Dog Training: Canine Scent Detection

Designed for dogs and handlers at all levels of canine scent detection. Beginners will learn how to introduce dogs to a target scent (the thing you want them to find). This skill has so many applications, from trialing in AKC Canine Scent Detection competitions, to shed antler hunting, to diabetic alert. Advanced teams will work on multiple hides, all clear signals, outdoor searches, and introducing new odors including "find this person" games. No previous training experience is needed to join this class, but dogs should be friendly towards other dogs and people. Dogs who bark continuously or have bitten humans or other dogs will not be allowed in this class. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and be up to date on vaccines for parvo and rabies.
September 24, 2026 to October 29, 2026, Boxx Training Center - Room SITE

Introduction to Good Manners

Puppies, adult dogs, and adolescents are all welcome - no previous training required! This class focuses on helping you build a strong foundation for the behaviors you want to see from your dog. Besides teaching basic commands like sit, down, stay, and come, you'll learn how to improve your dog's focus, self-control, understanding of boundaries, and bond with you. Classes will use positive training methods that help you understand why your dog does what they do and make sure it's the behaviors YOU like that are rewarded and increased. This class is not appropriate for dogs who are aggressive or defensive (barking, growling, lunging, snapping, or biting) towards other dogs or strangers. Handlers of dogs who are fearful of other dogs or people should reach out to the instructor at pawsibilitiesottumwa@gmail.com to discuss their dog's temperament before signing up. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and be up to date on vaccines for parvo and rabies. (Puppies must have had at least 2 rounds of vaccines but are not required to have their rabies vaccine until 16 weeks of age.) Pitt Bulls and Staffordshire Terriers cannot be accepted in this class due to city ordinances.� The first week is a handlers-only informational session, please bring vaccination records to this class. ��
September 17, 2026 to October 15, 2026, Boxx Training Center - Room SITE
October 29, 2026 to December 17, 2026, Boxx Training Center - Room SITE