The Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA has a long history of finding thousands of pets their forever homes, and we are proud of the behavioral support and training that serves these objectives. Therefore, the animal behavior function, which includes behavior assessments, evaluations, and a variety of training activities, will remain an important function within the AAWL / SPCA. We will be staffing these functions, and expect to provide new information and class schedules soon. For help with behavior issues, consider calling our free Behavior Help Line at 602-273-6850 or via email behavior@aawl.org.
Training Classes
Mutts with Manners- Beginners Class
In this seven-lesson course the dogs and handlers learn basic obedience exercises that are necessary for the companion dog. Sit, stay, come, leash manners and down are just a few of the behaviors the instructor will cover. We will also have discussions on how dog's learn, leadership skills, behavioral problems with solutions and bringing the adopted dog home. This class will also offer some some very basic agility foundation work which helps build confidence and teamwork with your dog. We will help your dog have good manners in home and out on a leash. Handlers learn to motivate their dogs, so training is fun and exciting. This class is for dogs that are at least four months old.
*Start date: January 13th
Time: 8:00pm
Class duration: 7 weeks
Cost: $110
*Start Date: January 24th
Time: 8:00am
Class duration: 7 weeks
Cost: $110
Contact: Kim Kowalski at dogtraining@cox.net or Michelle Myers at mmyers@aawl.org for more information & REGISTRATION
Mutts N' Motion!- Fun with Agility
Do you have a high energy dog that you just can't seem to find the right outlet for? The AAWL/SPCA has just the solution for you. Beginning May 3rd we are introducing a fun and exciting Introduction to agility class. This class is designed for all types of dogs and will be instructed by an expert trainer with 9 years of experience.
Start Date: February 21
Time: 9:30am
Class duration: 6 weeks
Cost: $80
- Class space is limited to 8. The only way to secure your spot is upon payment. CHECKS ARE MADE OUT TO KIM KOWALSKI.
- Taught by dog trainer Kim Kowalski
- Classes are held at our shelter facility at 30 N 40th Place in Phoenix
- Please email dogtraining@cox.net for registration
- Please contact Michelle Myers at 602-273-6852 ext 121 for details and questions
Please Note: There is a "zero tolerance" policy for aggressive dogs. All dogs are required to be current on vaccinations.
PUPPY S.T.A.R. Program- Puppy Class
This class is for dogs between 8 weeks (2 sets of shots) and 4 months of age.
Do you have a new puppy? Did you know from 8 weeks to 16 weeks is the most Critical Socialization stage for your pup? Habits that your puppy picks up at this early age can stay with him throughout life. What your little one learns now will stay with them forever. Puppies need guidance form the beginning. You need to make the rules not the puppies. AAWL / SPCA classes provide you and your puppy with structured lessons, age appropriate obedience, bonding, relationship and confidence building ideas and on leash socializing manners. This program is built around the S.T.A.R program brought to you by the American Kennel Club. In the sixth week your dog will test for their S.T.A.R. certification. www.akc.org
What to Bring: Collar and leash, soft yummy puppy treats i.e. cheese, chicken, hot dogs or soft puppy treats, pup's favorite toy.
Start Date: January 13
Time:7pm
Class duration: 6 weeks
Cost: $105
- Please email dogtraining@cox.net for registration
- Please contact Michelle Myers at 602-273-6852 ext 121 for details and questions
MUTTS KEEP MOVING UP- CGC/Intermediate Class
Prerequisites : Beginner Class or Instructor Approval
Help your dog become a valued member of the community by enrolling in Mutts Keep Moving Up (CGC/Intermediate Class). CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. The 8 week class is structure around the 10 steps your dog must pass to receive certification. In week 8 we administer the test. Our Canine Good Citizen Class is an intermediate-level dog training class geared towards passing the Canine Good Citizen certification test. Next stop...Therapy Dog.
Start Date: January 10
Time:10:45am
Class duration: 8 weeks
Cost: $115
- Please email dogtraining@cox.net for registration
- Please contact Michelle Myers at 602-273-6852 ext 121 for details and questions
Puppy Play Party
Puppy Classes will resume in January after the Holidays!
Space is limited - reservations required. Call 602-273-6852 xt. 121
Do you have a new puppy? Are you looking for a place to socialize with other dogs his age and size? Did you know from 8 weeks to 16 weeks is the most Critical Socialization stage for your pup? Habits that your puppy picks up at this early age can stay with him throughout life. AAWL / SPCA now offers a safe environment to socialize and interact with your puppy. Our puppy play group is designed to let your pup safely interact with other puppies and begin to learn good manners. We show you how to prevent problem behaviors and to build good habits for life through the use of fun games. You will also be able to ask questions to our trained staff or other proud new puppy parents! This class is for pups 8 to 16 weeks old.
What to Bring:
- Copy of your puppy's current vaccination record is required for participation
- Collar and leash
- Soft, yummy puppy treats like bites of cheese, chicken or hot dogs
- Your pup's favorite toy
- Mess Bags
What You Should Know:
- Chidren allowed but maximum of one child per adult
- $10.00 fee per class
- Class is 45 minutes to 1 hour in length
- Parties are held in our Administration & Training Building courtyard at 15 North 40th Place, Phoenix, 85034
- Please contact Michelle Myers at 602-273-6852 ext 121 for reservations, details and questions