Sunday, December 26, 2010
Classes starting soon!
We still have openings in our Beginning Obedience/Manners class, Fun with Agility and Puppy Preschool starting in Dublin on January 8, 2011. Contact me to register!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Point Isabel Christmas Eve Walk
I hope to see all of you at Point Isabel tomorrow morning when we do our annual Braveheart Christmas Eve walk! We will meet at Point Isabel, in the parking lot in front of Mudpuppies at 10am. There is a coffee shop and cafe there but Rick and I will stop at Starbucks on the way! Dress warm it may be chilly but it is so great for the dogs to blow off some steam before the holidays!
Point Isabel is in Richmond, off of Central Avenue which is off of 580.
Point Isabel is in Richmond, off of Central Avenue which is off of 580.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
December Brave-Heart to Heart
Merry Christmas everyone!! I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and wish you a great Christmas as well! Thank you all so much for trusting me and the Braveheart team with your dog's training. We appreciate you support and confidence. Thank you so much to my other instructors Dawn, Michele and Yvonne for being wonderful trainers and teaching great classes. And, thank you so much to my assistants Colleen, Kathy, Yvonne and Kristen for all you do to help make my classes run smoothly. I love and appreciate all of you and am grateful for this team and all of our wonderful clients. Together we have made Braveheart a wonderful, safe and warm environment for our clients and dogs to learn!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Penny Thompson
Penny is a wonderful German Shepherd/Malinois mix who belongs to Pam Thompson. Penny has completed our Beginning Obedience and Intermediate classes and is now doing great in our K9 Nosework classes. We are enjoying have Penny and Pam in class!
UPCOMING CLASSES
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 9-10:00am, 6 weeks, $150
Puppy Preschool, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 10-10:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Fun with Agility, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 11-11:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Three's Company, San Leandro, Tuesday, January 11, 2011, 6-6:45pm, 5 weeks, $200
Puppy Preschool, San Lorenzo, Thursday, January 20, 2011, 6-6:50pm, 6 weeks, $150
Beginning Obedience/Manners, San Lorenzo, Thursday, January 20, 2011, 7-8:00pm, 6 weeks, $150
Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners, Castro Valley, Monday, January 24, 2011, 6:30-7:30pm, 6 weeks, $150
Intermediate Obedience, Castro Valley, Monday, January 24, 2011, 7:30-8:14pm, 6 weeks, $120
Introduction to K9 Nosework, Castro Valley, Saturday, January 29, 2011, 6 weeks, $150
Two classes offered, 10-11:30 and 12-1:30
Introduction to Odor, San Leandro, Friday, January 14, 2011, 6 weeks, $150
Two classes offered, 6-7:30 and 7:30-9pm
CHRISTMAS EVE WALK
Braveheart students and their dogs are invited to go on a Christmas Eve Point Isabel walk that we do each Christmas Eve morning. Rick and I will be at Point Isabel, Christmas Eve morning t 10am, in the parking lot in front of Mudpuppies. We really enjoy going out with a couple of our dogs and letting them burn off some steam and enjoy themselves before coming home to prepare for Christmas. We hope to see you there.
DOG OF THE MONTH
Penny Thompson
Penny is a wonderful German Shepherd/Malinois mix who belongs to Pam Thompson. Penny has completed our Beginning Obedience and Intermediate classes and is now doing great in our K9 Nosework classes. We are enjoying have Penny and Pam in class!
UPCOMING CLASSES
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 9-10:00am, 6 weeks, $150
Puppy Preschool, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 10-10:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Fun with Agility, Dublin, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 11-11:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Three's Company, San Leandro, Tuesday, January 11, 2011, 6-6:45pm, 5 weeks, $200
Puppy Preschool, San Lorenzo, Thursday, January 20, 2011, 6-6:50pm, 6 weeks, $150
Beginning Obedience/Manners, San Lorenzo, Thursday, January 20, 2011, 7-8:00pm, 6 weeks, $150
Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners, Castro Valley, Monday, January 24, 2011, 6:30-7:30pm, 6 weeks, $150
Intermediate Obedience, Castro Valley, Monday, January 24, 2011, 7:30-8:14pm, 6 weeks, $120
Introduction to K9 Nosework, Castro Valley, Saturday, January 29, 2011, 6 weeks, $150
Two classes offered, 10-11:30 and 12-1:30
Introduction to Odor, San Leandro, Friday, January 14, 2011, 6 weeks, $150
Two classes offered, 6-7:30 and 7:30-9pm
CHRISTMAS EVE WALK
Braveheart students and their dogs are invited to go on a Christmas Eve Point Isabel walk that we do each Christmas Eve morning. Rick and I will be at Point Isabel, Christmas Eve morning t 10am, in the parking lot in front of Mudpuppies. We really enjoy going out with a couple of our dogs and letting them burn off some steam and enjoy themselves before coming home to prepare for Christmas. We hope to see you there.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Book Signing with Braveheart Client and Friend Michele Copen
Holiday Open House & Book Signing Event
This Wednesday (12/8) at Dog Bone Alley, 1342 Park Street, Alameda CA. From 5-8pm. Dog Bone Alley will have holiday treats for you and your pet, a holiday scavenger hunt and local photographer Michele Copen, will be signing her new book, The Heart Thieves: Enchanting French Bulldog Puppies. A portion of the evening's proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Alameda and the French Bulldog Rescue Network.
To read more about the book and it’s author, go to: http://www.theheartthieves.com
This Wednesday (12/8) at Dog Bone Alley, 1342 Park Street, Alameda CA. From 5-8pm. Dog Bone Alley will have holiday treats for you and your pet, a holiday scavenger hunt and local photographer Michele Copen, will be signing her new book, The Heart Thieves: Enchanting French Bulldog Puppies. A portion of the evening's proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Alameda and the French Bulldog Rescue Network.
To read more about the book and it’s author, go to: http://www.theheartthieves.com
Monday, November 29, 2010
December Drop in Conformation Class and Play Group Schedule
Here is the drop in conformation class schedule for the remainder of the year:
There will be no Tuesday night or Wednesday DAY drop in conformation classes from December 14 through the end of the year.
There will be no Wednesday NIGHT drop in conformation class on December 22 or December 29.
There will be no Small Dog Play Group on December 22 or December 29.
All conformation classes and play group will resume on January 4 and January 5, 2011.
There will be no Tuesday night or Wednesday DAY drop in conformation classes from December 14 through the end of the year.
There will be no Wednesday NIGHT drop in conformation class on December 22 or December 29.
There will be no Small Dog Play Group on December 22 or December 29.
All conformation classes and play group will resume on January 4 and January 5, 2011.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
No Conformation Classes on November 23 or 24.
There will be no conformation classes on November 23 or 24. There will also be no play group on November 24. Have a great Thanksgiving everyone!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Drop In Rally Cancelled
Due to unusually low attendance over the past two months, the Drop-In Rally and Obedience class (Mondays at 6:30pm) will *not* be held for the remainder of the year.
Monday, November 8, 2010
November Brave-Heart to Heart
Hello Fall! I love Fall so I am welcoming it with open arms! It is my favorite time of year and I think, besides when it's raining, it's the dog's favorite time of year too since the weather is usually just right for them! I have a few classes starting soon if you are wanting to stay working for a bit longer into the end of the year. I hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Madden Masar belongs to Kristen and Mike Masar and has been coming to Bravheart since he was a tiny puppy, just like his big sister Dakota. Currently, Madden is being show in conformation and working towards his championship title. Madden's mom Kristen assists Vicki in classes and is handling Madden herself. Last week, Madden and his brother Ozzie won first in brace (two dogs shown together) at the national specialty out of a huge brace class!
Seminar Next Week
On Sunday, November 14 Vicki will be doing a one day seminar on Positive Training for Show Dogs that will be recorded and released on DVD by Tawzer Dog Videos. We are very excited and can't wait to be able to help others all over the world use positive training to train their show dogs!
Upcoming Classes
We have a Novice Obedience class starting on Monday, November 15 at 6:30pm in Dublin. Please email Vicki if you are interested.
Drop In Conformation
We have a new drop in conformation class Wednesdays at 12noon in San Leandro.
Yvonne is Back!
Yvonne is back and will be offering drop in conformation and small dog play groups again on Wednesday nights. Effective next week, the times will flip so Small Dog Play Group will be from 6:30-7pm and Drop In Conformation will be from 7-7:30pm!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Seminar Next Week
On Sunday, November 14 Vicki will be doing a one day seminar on Positive Training for Show Dogs that will be recorded and released on DVD by Tawzer Dog Videos. We are very excited and can't wait to be able to help others all over the world use positive training to train their show dogs!
Upcoming Classes
We have a Novice Obedience class starting on Monday, November 15 at 6:30pm in Dublin. Please email Vicki if you are interested.
Drop In Conformation
We have a new drop in conformation class Wednesdays at 12noon in San Leandro.
Yvonne is Back!
Yvonne is back and will be offering drop in conformation and small dog play groups again on Wednesday nights. Effective next week, the times will flip so Small Dog Play Group will be from 6:30-7pm and Drop In Conformation will be from 7-7:30pm!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate Class Cancelled
The Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate class scheduled to start on Tuesday, November 9 has been cancelled. We still have room in our Novice Obedience class starting on Monday, November 15.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday Night Conformation and Playgroup Is Back!
Effective November 3, we will once again have our Wednesday night Small Dog Play Group and Drop In Conformation class. Small Dog Play Groups at 7pm and drop in conformation with Yvonne at 6:30pm!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
New Drop In Conformation Class!
Beginning November 3, I will be offering a drop in conformation class in San Leandro on Wednesdays at 12 noon. I will see how it goes and how much interest there is. I may eventually alternate or do some weeks at the Dublin Creek Kennel location as well but for now, they will be held in San Leandro! Hope to see you there!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Howl-O-Ween Party Cancelled
The Howl-O-Ween Party has been cancelled. The weather forecasts are warning of a big storm at the end of the week through Sunday.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
No Conformation Class on October 26
There will be no drop in conformation classes this Tuesday, October 26. Take a break!
Friday, October 8, 2010
October Brave-Heart to Heart
Fall is my favorite time of year so while I can't believe it's already October, I am not disappointed that it got here so soon. I apologize for taking so long to get the newsletter out but I was at the Dachshund National Dog Show all last week and it's taken me this long to recover! So, here it is. I hope to see some of you at the Howl-O-Ween party and at some of our upcoming classes!
Howl-O-Ween Party
This year, Braveheart's annual Howl-O-Ween Party will be held at and in conjuction with Dublin Creek Kennels! This will be great as the training yard is spacious and outside! The party will be held on Saturday, October 30 from 6:30-8:30pm. We will have a costume contest, trick contest and prizes! The kennel is located at 6570 Donlon Way in Dublin! Hope to see you there!
Lectures on the Lawn
I will be doing a series of lectures at Dublin Creek Kennels. These lectures will be informative yet short and affordable. Our first lecture will be An Introduction to Fear in Dogs and will be held at 7pm on Wednesday, October 13. The cost is $20. You may preregister or simply show up. Hope to see you there!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Roxy Hawthorne
Roxy, a Leonberger who belongs to Cheryl Hawthorne, has been taking conformation classes with Braveheart since she was a tiny puppy! She is a huge girl with a heart just as big! Roxy is doing great with her show career and already has a 4 point major to her credit. She and her mom Cheryl are looking forward to doing some other classes as well.
Upcoming Classes
Introduction to Nosework, Michele Garlick, San Leandro, October 29, TWO classes offered, 6-7:30 and 7:30-9pm
Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and a natural desire to hunt. This class focuses on teaching you how to encourage and develop your dog's natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt and their love of toys, food and exercise. It's a great class for your dog to have fun, build confidence and burn lots of mental and physical energy and to find out just how good is your dog's nose. High food or toy motivation is beneficial for this class.
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate, Vicki Ronchette, San Leandro, November 9, 6-7pm
This class is for dogs who have completed our Beginning Obedience/Manners class. In this class we will begin to work the dogs outside as well as inside so that they learn to be reliable inside and outside.
Novice Obedience, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 15, 6:30-7:20pm
This class is designed to help people who are interested in competing in obedience with their dogs. We will focus on polishing up the Novice exercises including on and off leash heeling, recalls, finishes, sit stays, down stays. While we do focus on competition exercises this class is still great for people who are not intending to compete but are looking for new challenges for their dogs.
Marshmallows, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 15, 7:30-8:20pm
Is your dog shy or uncomfortable around certain things? Is he or she nervous of new people? Then this class is for you! This class is designed especially for shy dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to understand their dogs behavior and body language and how to help their dogs become more comfortable with different things. We will work on some manners and obedience behaviors while also learning to help dogs cope in a new environment.
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 11, 6-7pm
Beginning Obedience is recommended for dogs 5 months of age and older. This class is designed to teach owners how dogs learn. Students will be taught how to train their dogs to heel, sit, come, lie down, stand, stay as well as others. Dogs do come to the first class. Different types of equipment will be discussed and recommended on the first night. Owners must bring proof of shots to the first class. Aggressive dogs may be excused from class.
Howl-O-Ween Party
This year, Braveheart's annual Howl-O-Ween Party will be held at and in conjuction with Dublin Creek Kennels! This will be great as the training yard is spacious and outside! The party will be held on Saturday, October 30 from 6:30-8:30pm. We will have a costume contest, trick contest and prizes! The kennel is located at 6570 Donlon Way in Dublin! Hope to see you there!
Lectures on the Lawn
I will be doing a series of lectures at Dublin Creek Kennels. These lectures will be informative yet short and affordable. Our first lecture will be An Introduction to Fear in Dogs and will be held at 7pm on Wednesday, October 13. The cost is $20. You may preregister or simply show up. Hope to see you there!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Roxy Hawthorne
Upcoming Classes
Introduction to Nosework, Michele Garlick, San Leandro, October 29, TWO classes offered, 6-7:30 and 7:30-9pm
Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and a natural desire to hunt. This class focuses on teaching you how to encourage and develop your dog's natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt and their love of toys, food and exercise. It's a great class for your dog to have fun, build confidence and burn lots of mental and physical energy and to find out just how good is your dog's nose. High food or toy motivation is beneficial for this class.
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate, Vicki Ronchette, San Leandro, November 9, 6-7pm
This class is for dogs who have completed our Beginning Obedience/Manners class. In this class we will begin to work the dogs outside as well as inside so that they learn to be reliable inside and outside.
Novice Obedience, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 15, 6:30-7:20pm
This class is designed to help people who are interested in competing in obedience with their dogs. We will focus on polishing up the Novice exercises including on and off leash heeling, recalls, finishes, sit stays, down stays. While we do focus on competition exercises this class is still great for people who are not intending to compete but are looking for new challenges for their dogs.
Marshmallows, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 15, 7:30-8:20pm
Is your dog shy or uncomfortable around certain things? Is he or she nervous of new people? Then this class is for you! This class is designed especially for shy dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to understand their dogs behavior and body language and how to help their dogs become more comfortable with different things. We will work on some manners and obedience behaviors while also learning to help dogs cope in a new environment.
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Vicki Ronchette, Dublin, November 11, 6-7pm
Beginning Obedience is recommended for dogs 5 months of age and older. This class is designed to teach owners how dogs learn. Students will be taught how to train their dogs to heel, sit, come, lie down, stand, stay as well as others. Dogs do come to the first class. Different types of equipment will be discussed and recommended on the first night. Owners must bring proof of shots to the first class. Aggressive dogs may be excused from class.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Canine Good Citizen Class October 5
We have a Canine Good Citizen class starting on October 5 at 6pm in San Leandro. This is a 5 week class where we prepare your dog for the CGC test and then test on the last night. Fee is $120. Please contact Vicki if you are interested in registering.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Cancelled Conformation Classes
There will be no drop in conformation classes on Tuesday, 9/21 or 9/28.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
September Brave-Heart to Heart
As Summer starts to come to an end (if you can call it a Summer, crazy weather!) Braveheart has a lot of classes getting ready to start! Please take a look at the list below to see what is up and coming. We have some new and interesting classes including K9 Nosework, Agility Big Stuff and Novice Obedience just to name a few. I hope to see some of you and your dogs in them!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Dude Schlitt
Still just a puppy, Dude, a Boxer, has been taking classes from Braveheart for months now! He has participated in several of our classes including Clicker Conformation, Beginning, Novice Obedience and more! His mom Lisa is doing a great job with him!
Upcoming Classes
Please take a moment to look through our upcoming class schedule. We have many NEW classes starting! There is sure to be something here for you and your dog!
Beginning Obedience/Manners, 6 weeks
9/16, 7:00pm in San Lorenzo
11/11, 6:00pm in Dublin
10/9, 9:00am in Castro Valley
Small Dog Obedience/Manners, 6 weeks
9/20, 6:30pm in Castro Valley
Puppy Preschool, 6 weeks
9/16, 6:00pm in San Lorenzo
10/9, 10:00am in Castro Valley
Intermediate Obedience, 6 weeks
9/20 7:30pm in Castro Valley
Intro to Rally Obedience, 6 weeks, taught by Dawn Bushong
9/20, 7:30pm in San Leandro
Canine Good Citizen Prep Class with Test, 5 weeks
10/5, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Intro to K9 Nosework, 6 weeks, taught by Michele Garlick
10/29, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Intro to Odor, 6 weeks, taught by Michele Garlick
Must have completed K9 Nosework and have instructor approval for this class.
10/29, 7:30pm in San Leandro
Fun with Agility
10/9, 11:00am in Castro Valley
Novice Obedience
11/15, 6:30pm in Dublin
Marshmallows (fearful/shy dog class)
11/15, 7:30 in Dublin
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate
11/9, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Agility Big Stuff (must have completed Fun with Agility)
11/13, 1:30pm in Dublin
Lectures on the Lawn! One session lectures that will be fun, informal and affordable coming soon in Dublin!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Dude Schlitt
Still just a puppy, Dude, a Boxer, has been taking classes from Braveheart for months now! He has participated in several of our classes including Clicker Conformation, Beginning, Novice Obedience and more! His mom Lisa is doing a great job with him!
Upcoming Classes
Please take a moment to look through our upcoming class schedule. We have many NEW classes starting! There is sure to be something here for you and your dog!
Beginning Obedience/Manners, 6 weeks
9/16, 7:00pm in San Lorenzo
11/11, 6:00pm in Dublin
10/9, 9:00am in Castro Valley
Small Dog Obedience/Manners, 6 weeks
9/20, 6:30pm in Castro Valley
Puppy Preschool, 6 weeks
9/16, 6:00pm in San Lorenzo
10/9, 10:00am in Castro Valley
Intermediate Obedience, 6 weeks
9/20 7:30pm in Castro Valley
Intro to Rally Obedience, 6 weeks, taught by Dawn Bushong
9/20, 7:30pm in San Leandro
Canine Good Citizen Prep Class with Test, 5 weeks
10/5, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Intro to K9 Nosework, 6 weeks, taught by Michele Garlick
10/29, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Intro to Odor, 6 weeks, taught by Michele Garlick
Must have completed K9 Nosework and have instructor approval for this class.
10/29, 7:30pm in San Leandro
Fun with Agility
10/9, 11:00am in Castro Valley
Novice Obedience
11/15, 6:30pm in Dublin
Marshmallows (fearful/shy dog class)
11/15, 7:30 in Dublin
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate
11/9, 6:00pm in San Leandro
Agility Big Stuff (must have completed Fun with Agility)
11/13, 1:30pm in Dublin
Lectures on the Lawn! One session lectures that will be fun, informal and affordable coming soon in Dublin!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Wednesday Night Conformation and Playgroup Cancelled
The Wednesday night play group and conformation class will be cancelled until further notice.
Monday, August 2, 2010
August Brave-Heart to Heart
I hope that everyone has been enjoying this wonderful weather. Not too hot, good for humans, good for dogs! I also hope that everyone is having a good summer and enjoying vacations and outdoor activities, hopefully with your dogs! One of my favorite summer activities is going kayaking at Del Valle with Sonic my Pomeranian. We started going last year and we just love it. We pack a lunch, and plenty of water for both of us and treats for Sonic, meet our friends and take off. Sonic has his own life vest which I think makes him more comfortable in the water when we stop to swim and play on the beach. Del Valle has a kayak rental store and you are able to try out different types of kayaks to see what kind is best for you and your dog. The other great thing is that they have no problem with people taking their dogs on the kayaks. Sonic and I are not ready to buy our own kayak, it's just too darn easy to drive down there and rent one! Here is a picture of Sonic on one of our kayak trips!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Dax Duncan
Dax the beagle has been coming to Braveheart since he was just a little guy! His owner Tracy has done such a great job with Dax who is doing great in both agility and K9 Nosework!
Upcoming Classes
Novice Obedience, Monday, August 16, 6:30pm, 5 weeks, $120, Dublin Creek Kennel location
In this class we will focus on the Novice competition obedience exercises. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
Introduction to K9 Nosework, Friday, August 20, 6:30pm, 6 weeks, $150, San Leandro location
This class will introduce students and their dogs to the new sport of K9 Nosework which allows pet dogs to learn odor discrimination like bomb and narcotic detection dogs. Instructor-Michele Garlick (1 spot left)
Clicker Conformation, Saturdays, August 28, 9am, 5 weeks, $150, Dublin Creek Kennel location
This class will get show dogs on their way to learning the behaviors necessary for the show ring including stacking, gaiting and accepting judges examination. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
Marshmallows, Saturdays, August 28, 10am, 5 weeks, $150, Dublin Creek Kennel location
This class was especially developed for shy or fearful dogs. We will discuss strategies for helping fearful dogs learn to cope with things that worry them, as well as work on basic behaviors in a low stress way. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
TUESDAY NIGHT CONFORMATION CLASSES WILL BE HELD AT BRAVEHEART DOG TRAINING, 2123 MARINA BLVD., EFFECTIVE AUGUST 10.
Don't forget to "like" us on Facebook to get updates as well as cool articles and links!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Dax Duncan
Dax the beagle has been coming to Braveheart since he was just a little guy! His owner Tracy has done such a great job with Dax who is doing great in both agility and K9 Nosework!
Upcoming Classes
Novice Obedience, Monday, August 16, 6:30pm, 5 weeks, $120, Dublin Creek Kennel location
In this class we will focus on the Novice competition obedience exercises. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
Introduction to K9 Nosework, Friday, August 20, 6:30pm, 6 weeks, $150, San Leandro location
This class will introduce students and their dogs to the new sport of K9 Nosework which allows pet dogs to learn odor discrimination like bomb and narcotic detection dogs. Instructor-Michele Garlick (1 spot left)
Clicker Conformation, Saturdays, August 28, 9am, 5 weeks, $150, Dublin Creek Kennel location
This class will get show dogs on their way to learning the behaviors necessary for the show ring including stacking, gaiting and accepting judges examination. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
Marshmallows, Saturdays, August 28, 10am, 5 weeks, $150, Dublin Creek Kennel location
This class was especially developed for shy or fearful dogs. We will discuss strategies for helping fearful dogs learn to cope with things that worry them, as well as work on basic behaviors in a low stress way. Instructor-Vicki Ronchette
TUESDAY NIGHT CONFORMATION CLASSES WILL BE HELD AT BRAVEHEART DOG TRAINING, 2123 MARINA BLVD., EFFECTIVE AUGUST 10.
Don't forget to "like" us on Facebook to get updates as well as cool articles and links!
Monday, July 26, 2010
More about K9 Nosework
Here is the website for K9 Nosework for those of you that would like to read a little bit more about it. http://www.k9nosework.com/
Sunday, July 25, 2010
K9 Nosework is here!
I am very happy to announce that we will be offering our first K9 Nosework class taught by Michele Garlick on August 20 at 6:30pm. Nosework is SO much fun! Please contact me if you would like to register. Space will be limited.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Recall Class still has openings!
Does your dog come when you call him? If not, consider taking our emergency recall class The Dog Who Came When Called, being offered in Dublin on July 29 at 7pm!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Sunday, July 4, 2010
July Brave-Heart to Heart
I hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far. I know I am! With my new work at the kennel and classes, I am keeping busy. I hope you will take a look at the new classes I have coming up and considering signing up for something sounds like fun for your and your dog!
Dog of the Month
Louie Correia
Oh my lovely Louie! This sweet, sweet boy has been through several Braveheart classes including beginning and agility for fun with his companion Sharon. Every time I see Louie hearts fly out of his eyes and he squeals with happiness.....this boy really knows how to make someone feel loved! And, Braveheart loves him right back!
Upcoming Classes
Novice Obedience is designed for people looking to compete with their dogs in obedience. We will work on competition Novice exercises, however this class is also great for people just looking for new things to do with their dogs. This 5 week class will start on Monday, August 16 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Marshmallows is a new class just for shy or fearful dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to better understand their dogs behavior and body language and give them tools to help them help their dogs cope and learn to feel more comfortable around things that make them nervous. This 5 week class will be start on Saturday, August 28, at 10am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Clicker Conformation class for people who wish to train their show dogs using positive reinforcement methods including the clicker. This 5 week class will start on Saturday, August 28 at 9am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Wild Card is a 5 week class that serves as a "sampler" of different dog sports for owners to try with their dogs. We will work on obedience, rally, agility, scentwork and more! This class will start on Thursday, August 5 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Since there is so much interest, I added another Recall class. The Dog Who Came When Called is a one session workshop where we work on teaching your dog an emergency recall! This workshop will be offered on Thursday, July 29 at 7pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Please check out www.braveheartdogtraining.com for the entire schedule of classes!
Hot Dogs!
Summer is here! While Summer is a great time for everyone with kids out of school and everyone going on vacation we need to be extra thoughtful about making sure our dogs are kept safe and cool. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Water
Make sure your dog has plenty of water available at all times. Any water kept in outside bowls will need to be refreshed more often as it can get warm on hot days.
Walks
It's not a good idea to take your daily walk in the middle of the day as this is typically the hottest time of the day. Consider walking earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon or early evening to make sure that your dog (and you!) don't get overheated. Also, be careful about walking on hot pavement or black top as it can get dangerously hot on warm days causing pain and even blistering.
Cars
Please do not take your dogs in the car if you would have to leave them in the car alone for any length of time. Even on 80 degree days the heat inside a parked car can reach over 120 degrees. Heatstroke can happen quickly and can be fatal. Please leave your dog home on days when you can't take him inside with you.
Shelter
If you allow your dog to be outside during the day, please make sure that they have plenty of shade and shelter (and water!)
Dog of the Month
Louie Correia
Oh my lovely Louie! This sweet, sweet boy has been through several Braveheart classes including beginning and agility for fun with his companion Sharon. Every time I see Louie hearts fly out of his eyes and he squeals with happiness.....this boy really knows how to make someone feel loved! And, Braveheart loves him right back!
Upcoming Classes
Novice Obedience is designed for people looking to compete with their dogs in obedience. We will work on competition Novice exercises, however this class is also great for people just looking for new things to do with their dogs. This 5 week class will start on Monday, August 16 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Marshmallows is a new class just for shy or fearful dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to better understand their dogs behavior and body language and give them tools to help them help their dogs cope and learn to feel more comfortable around things that make them nervous. This 5 week class will be start on Saturday, August 28, at 10am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Clicker Conformation class for people who wish to train their show dogs using positive reinforcement methods including the clicker. This 5 week class will start on Saturday, August 28 at 9am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Wild Card is a 5 week class that serves as a "sampler" of different dog sports for owners to try with their dogs. We will work on obedience, rally, agility, scentwork and more! This class will start on Thursday, August 5 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Since there is so much interest, I added another Recall class. The Dog Who Came When Called is a one session workshop where we work on teaching your dog an emergency recall! This workshop will be offered on Thursday, July 29 at 7pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Please check out www.braveheartdogtraining.com for the entire schedule of classes!
Hot Dogs!
Summer is here! While Summer is a great time for everyone with kids out of school and everyone going on vacation we need to be extra thoughtful about making sure our dogs are kept safe and cool. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Water
Make sure your dog has plenty of water available at all times. Any water kept in outside bowls will need to be refreshed more often as it can get warm on hot days.
Walks
It's not a good idea to take your daily walk in the middle of the day as this is typically the hottest time of the day. Consider walking earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon or early evening to make sure that your dog (and you!) don't get overheated. Also, be careful about walking on hot pavement or black top as it can get dangerously hot on warm days causing pain and even blistering.
Cars
Please do not take your dogs in the car if you would have to leave them in the car alone for any length of time. Even on 80 degree days the heat inside a parked car can reach over 120 degrees. Heatstroke can happen quickly and can be fatal. Please leave your dog home on days when you can't take him inside with you.
Shelter
If you allow your dog to be outside during the day, please make sure that they have plenty of shade and shelter (and water!)
Friday, June 25, 2010
Recall Class July 29
The next emergency recall class will be held on Thursday, July 29. Sorry for the posting it as the 28th, my mistake
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Updated Schedule Information
Please note updates to our schedule:
Marshmallows (shy dog class) will be held on Saturdays at 10am and will start on August 28 in Dublin.
Novice (obedience) will be held on Mondays at 6:30pm and will start on August 16 in Dublin.
Email me to register for these classes.
Also, Saturday play groups will be canceled until further notice.
Marshmallows (shy dog class) will be held on Saturdays at 10am and will start on August 28 in Dublin.
Novice (obedience) will be held on Mondays at 6:30pm and will start on August 16 in Dublin.
Email me to register for these classes.
Also, Saturday play groups will be canceled until further notice.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Exciting New Classes Added!!
I just added several new classes that will be starting in the next couple of months!
Novice Obedience is designed for people looking to compete with their dogs in obedience. We will work on competition Novice exercises, however this class is also great for people just looking for new things to do with their dogs. This 5 week class will be held on Saturdays, at 10am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Marshmallows is a new class just for shy or fearful dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to better understand their dogs behavior and body language and give them tools to help them help their dogs cope and learn to feel more comfortable around things that make them nervous. This 5 week class will be held on Mondays, at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Clicker Conformation class for people who wish to train their show dogs using positive reinforcement methods including the clicker. This 5 week class will be held on Saturdays, at 9am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Wild Card is a 5 week class that serves as a "sampler" of different dog sports for owners to try with their dogs. We will work on obedience, rally, agility, scentwork and more! This class will start on Thursday, August 5 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Since there is so much interest, I added another Recall class. The Dog Who Came When Called is a one session workshop where we work on teaching your dog an emergency recall! This workshop will be offered on Thursday, July 29 at 7pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
My goal is to offer a wide variety of classes to meet everyone's needs and suit everyone's taste! You will have a lot to choose from and I hope that you will try out some of these new classes! To register for any of these simply email me at braveheartdogs@sbcglobal.net and I will send you a registration form. Please visit our website for more information and detailed descriptions.
Of course, we also have our usual classes including Puppy Preschool, Beginning Obedience, Intermediate Obedience, Fun with Agility and our drop in Rally and drop in Conformation classes!
Novice Obedience is designed for people looking to compete with their dogs in obedience. We will work on competition Novice exercises, however this class is also great for people just looking for new things to do with their dogs. This 5 week class will be held on Saturdays, at 10am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Marshmallows is a new class just for shy or fearful dogs. The goal will be to teach owners of shy or fearful dogs to better understand their dogs behavior and body language and give them tools to help them help their dogs cope and learn to feel more comfortable around things that make them nervous. This 5 week class will be held on Mondays, at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Clicker Conformation class for people who wish to train their show dogs using positive reinforcement methods including the clicker. This 5 week class will be held on Saturdays, at 9am at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Wild Card is a 5 week class that serves as a "sampler" of different dog sports for owners to try with their dogs. We will work on obedience, rally, agility, scentwork and more! This class will start on Thursday, August 5 at 6:30pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
Since there is so much interest, I added another Recall class. The Dog Who Came When Called is a one session workshop where we work on teaching your dog an emergency recall! This workshop will be offered on Thursday, July 29 at 7pm at Dublin Creek Kennels!
My goal is to offer a wide variety of classes to meet everyone's needs and suit everyone's taste! You will have a lot to choose from and I hope that you will try out some of these new classes! To register for any of these simply email me at braveheartdogs@sbcglobal.net and I will send you a registration form. Please visit our website for more information and detailed descriptions.
Of course, we also have our usual classes including Puppy Preschool, Beginning Obedience, Intermediate Obedience, Fun with Agility and our drop in Rally and drop in Conformation classes!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
No Classes on Wednesday, June 23
There will be no playgroups and no conformation class on Wednesday, June 23.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
For Your Information
I will be doing a seminar on Positive Training for Show Dogs in Milpitas on Saturday, August 7. Kim Moeller will be presenting on Reactive Rovers on August 8. For more information visit www.positivelytrained.com!
Effective June 22, the Tuesday evening Drop In Conformation classes will be held at the Washington Manor Park at 14930 Zelma Street in San Leandro right off of Manor Blvd. It will be nice outside with more space and fresh air!
My beautiful new training yard at Dublin Creek Kennels is ready to go! I have a Beginning class, a puppy class, a Wild Card class and a novice obedience class already scheduled and more to come! Check out the website to see what's coming up! This space is gorgeous and I am so grateful for it! I can't wait to share it with all of you!
Effective June 22, the Tuesday evening Drop In Conformation classes will be held at the Washington Manor Park at 14930 Zelma Street in San Leandro right off of Manor Blvd. It will be nice outside with more space and fresh air!
My beautiful new training yard at Dublin Creek Kennels is ready to go! I have a Beginning class, a puppy class, a Wild Card class and a novice obedience class already scheduled and more to come! Check out the website to see what's coming up! This space is gorgeous and I am so grateful for it! I can't wait to share it with all of you!
Monday, June 7, 2010
June Brave Heart to Heart
Happy Summer Everyone! Now, if the weather would only cooperate and start acting like Summer!! As long as we are talking about Summer, I hope everyone's summer is off to a great start. Remember, as the weather gets hotter to make sure that you take extra care to keep your dog's cool. Fresh water at all times, walks during the cooler times of day (evening and morning) and never, ever leave your dog in the car even if it is mildly warm out!
Dog of the Month
Riley Criswell
Riley has been a Braveheart client ever since he was a small puppy! He has been through a few of our classes and he and his mom Susan are regulars at our small dog play groups. We are happy to have you Riley!!
New Dublin Classes!
I am so happy to announce that we will be offering classes through Dublin Creek Kennels. The kennel owners have built me a wonderful fully enclosed, grassy training area for us to offer classes. We already have a Puppy Preschool, Beginning Obedience/Manners and a Wild Card class scheduled. Please visit our schedule page to register!
We also offer Board and Train at the kennel including our "Refresher Course" which is available to clients who have done our two week board and train program AND to clients who have completed Beginning Obedience/Manners with Braveheart! So, if you need to leave your dog at the kennel for a week you can have their training polished up as well!
Upcoming Classes
Prepare Your Dog for Your New Baby with Stacy Braslau Schneck of Stacy's Wag N' Train, San Leandro, Thursday, June 10, 6:30-8:00pm. $30 per person or $50 per couple, humans only.
Puppy Preschool
San Lorenzo through HARD, Thursday, June 17, 6:00pm
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 10:00am
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Wednesday, July 14, 10:00am
Beginning Obedience/Manners
San Lorenzo through HARD, Thursday, June 17, 7:00pm
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 9:00am
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Wednesday, July 14, 11:00am
Small Dog Beginning
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Monday, June 21, 6:30pm
Intermediate
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Monday, June 21, 7:30pm
Fun with Agility and Games
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 11:00am
Wild Card
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Thursday, August 5, 6:30pm
More classes are being added all the time so please keep checking our website!
Dog of the Month
Riley Criswell
Riley has been a Braveheart client ever since he was a small puppy! He has been through a few of our classes and he and his mom Susan are regulars at our small dog play groups. We are happy to have you Riley!!
New Dublin Classes!
I am so happy to announce that we will be offering classes through Dublin Creek Kennels. The kennel owners have built me a wonderful fully enclosed, grassy training area for us to offer classes. We already have a Puppy Preschool, Beginning Obedience/Manners and a Wild Card class scheduled. Please visit our schedule page to register!
We also offer Board and Train at the kennel including our "Refresher Course" which is available to clients who have done our two week board and train program AND to clients who have completed Beginning Obedience/Manners with Braveheart! So, if you need to leave your dog at the kennel for a week you can have their training polished up as well!
Upcoming Classes
Prepare Your Dog for Your New Baby with Stacy Braslau Schneck of Stacy's Wag N' Train, San Leandro, Thursday, June 10, 6:30-8:00pm. $30 per person or $50 per couple, humans only.
Puppy Preschool
San Lorenzo through HARD, Thursday, June 17, 6:00pm
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 10:00am
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Wednesday, July 14, 10:00am
Beginning Obedience/Manners
San Lorenzo through HARD, Thursday, June 17, 7:00pm
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 9:00am
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Wednesday, July 14, 11:00am
Small Dog Beginning
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Monday, June 21, 6:30pm
Intermediate
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Monday, June 21, 7:30pm
Fun with Agility and Games
Castro Valley through CV Adult, Saturday, June 26, 11:00am
Wild Card
Dublin through Braveheart at Dublin Creek Kennel, Thursday, August 5, 6:30pm
More classes are being added all the time so please keep checking our website!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Emergency Recall Class this Thursday
We are offering The Dog Who Came When Called our emergency recall class this Thursday in San Leandro at 6:30pm. I still have a few openings. Please let me know if you would like to register.
Friday, May 7, 2010
May Brave-Heart to Heart
Ah, finally some nice sunny weather for all of us to enjoy! Had a great walk today and actually got to enjoy some nice sunshine. My allergies might disagree, but I am definitely enjoying the nice weather. I have some great stuff to share with all of you so take a look at this months newsletter.
Board and Train
My new Board and Train training programs which is a cooperative effort with Braveheart Dog Training and Dublin Creek Kennels is going great! We had dogs signed up while I was still finishing the curriculum! We have had several Board and Train clients come through and it's going wonderfully. The dogs are having a great time being trained and the clients are thrilled. How lucky I am to have access to such a beautiful facility and wonderful, caring staff.
New Training Location Soon!
Things are going so well with the partnership between Dublin Creek Kennels and myself that it is looking like I will be offering classes there in the near future. We are still working on all the details but when I have them you will all be the first to know!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Jillie "Bean" Salazar
Jillie is a 1 year old female German Shepherd who has been through several Braveheart classes! She is currently in our Canine Good Citizen class and our Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate. Jillie's owner is a professional dog trainer herself and it's great to have both Christine and Jillie in our classes!
Dogs and Babies Workshop with Stacy Braslau Schneck!
My good friend Stacy Braslau-Schneck is coming to Braveheart to teach a class on dogs and babies. I am so excited about this!
Prepare Your Dog for the New Baby," Thursday June 10, 6:30-8 PM. Cost is $30 per person or $50 per couple. If you are expecting (or recently added) a new human baby to your family, there will be a lot of changes for your family dog. In this seminar trainer and behavior specialist Stacy Braslau-Schneck from Stacy's Wag'N'Train will discuss some of the concerns you may have, signs of potential problems, and training methods you can use to prepare your dog for the next steps. This seminar should help ensure that everyone is safe and comfortable. This will be a lecture and demonstration, so please leave your dogs at home (babies are welcome). Contact me for more information!
Vicki Ronchette and Kim Moeller Lecture, August 7 & 8, 2010
Vicki will be presenting on Positive Training for Show Dogs which will include how dog shows work, what behaviors you need to train and how to train them. Kim will present on reactive dogs. Please visit www.positivelytrained.com to register!
Upcoming Classes
Puppy Preschool, Thursday, June 17, 6pm, San Lorenzo
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Thursday, June 17, 7pm, San Lorenzo
Three's Company, Tuesday, August 10, 6pm, San Leandro
Clicking for Conformation, Tuesday, June 29, 6pm, San Leandro
The Dog Who Came When Called - Emergency Recall Class, Thursday, June 3, 6:30pm
Fun with Shaping and Tricks Workshop, Monday, June 7, 6:30pm
Drop In Classes
Rally and Skill Building, Mondays, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Conformation, Tuesdays, 7:00pm - All dogs, 7:30pm - Small Dogs, San Leandro
Conformation, Wednesdays, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Playgroups
Wednesdays at 7pm and Saturdays at 12pm. Note: During the month of June all Saturday playgroups will be held at 4pm!
Board and Train
My new Board and Train training programs which is a cooperative effort with Braveheart Dog Training and Dublin Creek Kennels is going great! We had dogs signed up while I was still finishing the curriculum! We have had several Board and Train clients come through and it's going wonderfully. The dogs are having a great time being trained and the clients are thrilled. How lucky I am to have access to such a beautiful facility and wonderful, caring staff.
New Training Location Soon!
Things are going so well with the partnership between Dublin Creek Kennels and myself that it is looking like I will be offering classes there in the near future. We are still working on all the details but when I have them you will all be the first to know!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Jillie "Bean" Salazar
Jillie is a 1 year old female German Shepherd who has been through several Braveheart classes! She is currently in our Canine Good Citizen class and our Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate. Jillie's owner is a professional dog trainer herself and it's great to have both Christine and Jillie in our classes!
Dogs and Babies Workshop with Stacy Braslau Schneck!
My good friend Stacy Braslau-Schneck is coming to Braveheart to teach a class on dogs and babies. I am so excited about this!
Prepare Your Dog for the New Baby," Thursday June 10, 6:30-8 PM. Cost is $30 per person or $50 per couple. If you are expecting (or recently added) a new human baby to your family, there will be a lot of changes for your family dog. In this seminar trainer and behavior specialist Stacy Braslau-Schneck from Stacy's Wag'N'Train will discuss some of the concerns you may have, signs of potential problems, and training methods you can use to prepare your dog for the next steps. This seminar should help ensure that everyone is safe and comfortable. This will be a lecture and demonstration, so please leave your dogs at home (babies are welcome). Contact me for more information!
Vicki Ronchette and Kim Moeller Lecture, August 7 & 8, 2010
Vicki will be presenting on Positive Training for Show Dogs which will include how dog shows work, what behaviors you need to train and how to train them. Kim will present on reactive dogs. Please visit www.positivelytrained.com to register!
Upcoming Classes
Puppy Preschool, Thursday, June 17, 6pm, San Lorenzo
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Thursday, June 17, 7pm, San Lorenzo
Three's Company, Tuesday, August 10, 6pm, San Leandro
Clicking for Conformation, Tuesday, June 29, 6pm, San Leandro
The Dog Who Came When Called - Emergency Recall Class, Thursday, June 3, 6:30pm
Fun with Shaping and Tricks Workshop, Monday, June 7, 6:30pm
Drop In Classes
Rally and Skill Building, Mondays, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Conformation, Tuesdays, 7:00pm - All dogs, 7:30pm - Small Dogs, San Leandro
Conformation, Wednesdays, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Playgroups
Wednesdays at 7pm and Saturdays at 12pm. Note: During the month of June all Saturday playgroups will be held at 4pm!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
New Classes Starting Soon!
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate starts on April 29 at 6:30pm in San Leandro, 4 weeks, $85.
Canine Good Citizen Prep class and test starts on May 4 at 6:00pm in San Leandro, 4 weeks, $120.
The Dog Who Came When Called - Reliable Recall Workshop on Thursday, June 3, from 6:30 to 8pm, $45.
Fun with Shaping and Tricks - Learn the Art of Shaping on Monday, June 7, from 6:30 to 8pm, $45.
Clicker Conformation starts on June 29 at 6:00pm in San Leandro, 5 weeks, $165.
Please contact me to reserve a spot in any of these classes.
Canine Good Citizen Prep class and test starts on May 4 at 6:00pm in San Leandro, 4 weeks, $120.
The Dog Who Came When Called - Reliable Recall Workshop on Thursday, June 3, from 6:30 to 8pm, $45.
Fun with Shaping and Tricks - Learn the Art of Shaping on Monday, June 7, from 6:30 to 8pm, $45.
Clicker Conformation starts on June 29 at 6:00pm in San Leandro, 5 weeks, $165.
Please contact me to reserve a spot in any of these classes.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
April 13
We will be having conformation drop in classes on April 13 as Yvonne has agreed to teach them for me.
April Brave-Heart to Heart
I hope that all of you had a great Easter! Rick and I spent our Easter judging Basset Hound field trials in Vacaville! We were lucky to have nice weather while judging the male dogs, but it was pouring rain by the time we judged the field champions. Luckily, the club asked us to cast the dogs (this means we didn't have to look for rabbits, just put the dogs down) in a small pack (this means that rather than judge two dogs at a time, we released six hounds all at once and judged them together)! It was really fun actually, but we were so glad to get home!
I am very excited to have some new classes being added to the schedule including another indoor/outdoor intermediate, a Canine Good Citizen prep test and class and a Wednesday evening drop in conformation class to be taught by Yvonne Chohan. Please check them out!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Hannah Dummer
Hannah has not only been through our Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners class but she has been a fixture in our small dog playgroups for a long time now! Hannah is an expert at welcoming new dogs who come into the playgroups. She is so welcoming and skilled at introducing new dogs that she is frequently used to help them get comfortable and integrated into our groups. We are so grateful and lucky to have her!
New Drop In Conformation Class!
Effective Wednesday, April 21 we will begin offering a Wednesday Drop In Conformation class to be taught by Yvonne Chohan! Yvonne runs our small dog playgroups and assists Vicki in the Thursday evening classes In addition, Yvonne trains her own American Pit Bull Terriers for conformation and search and rescue. The class will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:00pm. The fee is $10 per class or you may purchase a discount card for $35. The discount card can be used at any of our drop in conformation classes. I can't wait to have a conformation class to bring my own dogs to!
Braveheart on Facebook
Braveheart Dog Training has an official Facebook page where I link articles, class information and anything else that I think clients will find helpful. Feel free to become a fan! To find us just search Braveheart Dog Training!
Positive Training for Show Dogs Seminar
Vicki will be doing a one day seminar on Positive Training for Show Dogs on August 7 through Positively Trained. The two seminar will feature Vicki on day one and Kim Moeller (author of Reactive Rover) on day two. Details are still in the works.
Class Schedule
Puppy Preschool - Saturday, April 24, 10:00am, Castro Valley
Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners - Monday, April 12, 6:30pm, Castro Valley
Beginning Obedience/Manners - Saturday, April 24, 9:00am, Castro Valley
Intermediate Obedience - Monday, April 12, 7:30pm, Castro Valley
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate - Thursday, April 29, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Canine Good Citizen - Tuesday, May 4, 6:00pm, San Leandro
Fun with Agility and Games 1 - Saturday, April 24, 11:00am, Castro Valley
I am very excited to have some new classes being added to the schedule including another indoor/outdoor intermediate, a Canine Good Citizen prep test and class and a Wednesday evening drop in conformation class to be taught by Yvonne Chohan. Please check them out!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Hannah Dummer
Hannah has not only been through our Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners class but she has been a fixture in our small dog playgroups for a long time now! Hannah is an expert at welcoming new dogs who come into the playgroups. She is so welcoming and skilled at introducing new dogs that she is frequently used to help them get comfortable and integrated into our groups. We are so grateful and lucky to have her!
New Drop In Conformation Class!
Effective Wednesday, April 21 we will begin offering a Wednesday Drop In Conformation class to be taught by Yvonne Chohan! Yvonne runs our small dog playgroups and assists Vicki in the Thursday evening classes In addition, Yvonne trains her own American Pit Bull Terriers for conformation and search and rescue. The class will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:00pm. The fee is $10 per class or you may purchase a discount card for $35. The discount card can be used at any of our drop in conformation classes. I can't wait to have a conformation class to bring my own dogs to!
Braveheart on Facebook
Braveheart Dog Training has an official Facebook page where I link articles, class information and anything else that I think clients will find helpful. Feel free to become a fan! To find us just search Braveheart Dog Training!
Positive Training for Show Dogs Seminar
Vicki will be doing a one day seminar on Positive Training for Show Dogs on August 7 through Positively Trained. The two seminar will feature Vicki on day one and Kim Moeller (author of Reactive Rover) on day two. Details are still in the works.
Class Schedule
Puppy Preschool - Saturday, April 24, 10:00am, Castro Valley
Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners - Monday, April 12, 6:30pm, Castro Valley
Beginning Obedience/Manners - Saturday, April 24, 9:00am, Castro Valley
Intermediate Obedience - Monday, April 12, 7:30pm, Castro Valley
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate - Thursday, April 29, 6:30pm, San Leandro
Canine Good Citizen - Tuesday, May 4, 6:00pm, San Leandro
Fun with Agility and Games 1 - Saturday, April 24, 11:00am, Castro Valley
Monday, March 29, 2010
No Conformation Class on Tuesday, April 13
I just wanted to let everyone know that there will be NO conformation class on Tuesday April 13.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
March Brave Heart to Heart Newsletter
I hope that this month's newsletter finds everyone doing well. I know so many people have been sick with the flu or a cold, myself included and I hope that everyone who I have talked to who has been sick is feeling better. Hopefully, with the change in weather we will all be feeling better. I have much to report this month and I hope that all of you will be as excited as I am about some of the new things that I will be doing and offering through Braveheart.
Now offering Board and Train Services
Yes, you read that right! Braveheart Dog Training will be offering Board and Train services through Dublin Creek Kennels. I am creating and directing a Board and Train program that will allow clients to have their dogs board for 2 weeks (shorter stays available for puppies) at the beautiful Dublin Creek Kennels. I have referred people to Dublin Creek Kennels for several years now. Their facility is quiet, clean, well run and a place that I would personally feel comfortable leaving my dogs. Those of you who know me, know that I have high standards so the fact that I would feel comfortable leaving my dogs with Sue, is a testament to how much I believe in her. Please feel free to visit the Board and Train on the website for more information.
Dogs of the Month
Allistair Egenhoefer-Jennings
Allistair is a standard smooth Dachshund who belongs to Rachel Egenhoefer and Kyle Jennings. He has been training with Braveheart since he was a tiny puppy. He has been through our puppy class, beginning and is now taking on our more advanced level classes and is doing great! We love having Allistair in our classes.
Upcoming Classes
Beginning Obedience/Manners
Thursday, March 18, 7pm in San Lorenzo through HARD
Saturday, April 24, 9am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
Puppy Preschool
Thursday, March 18, 6pm in San Lorenzo through HARD
Saturday, April 24, 10am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
Fun with Agility and Games Level 1
Saturday, April 24, 11am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
BRAGS
Michele Copen's French Bulldog Allie finished her championship! Yay Allie!
Allison Ching's Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Remy got a 4 point major! Woo hoo Remy!
Trent Sponsler's Cardigan Welsh Corgi Captain was Winners Dog at the Santa Clara show both days! He is almost finished with his championship! Go Captain!
Please let me know when your dog has a win, or other accomplishment that
Now offering Board and Train Services
Yes, you read that right! Braveheart Dog Training will be offering Board and Train services through Dublin Creek Kennels. I am creating and directing a Board and Train program that will allow clients to have their dogs board for 2 weeks (shorter stays available for puppies) at the beautiful Dublin Creek Kennels. I have referred people to Dublin Creek Kennels for several years now. Their facility is quiet, clean, well run and a place that I would personally feel comfortable leaving my dogs. Those of you who know me, know that I have high standards so the fact that I would feel comfortable leaving my dogs with Sue, is a testament to how much I believe in her. Please feel free to visit the Board and Train on the website for more information.
Dogs of the Month
Allistair Egenhoefer-Jennings
Allistair is a standard smooth Dachshund who belongs to Rachel Egenhoefer and Kyle Jennings. He has been training with Braveheart since he was a tiny puppy. He has been through our puppy class, beginning and is now taking on our more advanced level classes and is doing great! We love having Allistair in our classes.
Upcoming Classes
Beginning Obedience/Manners
Thursday, March 18, 7pm in San Lorenzo through HARD
Saturday, April 24, 9am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
Puppy Preschool
Thursday, March 18, 6pm in San Lorenzo through HARD
Saturday, April 24, 10am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
Fun with Agility and Games Level 1
Saturday, April 24, 11am in Castro Valley through Castro Valley Adult School
BRAGS
Michele Copen's French Bulldog Allie finished her championship! Yay Allie!
Allison Ching's Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Remy got a 4 point major! Woo hoo Remy!
Trent Sponsler's Cardigan Welsh Corgi Captain was Winners Dog at the Santa Clara show both days! He is almost finished with his championship! Go Captain!
Please let me know when your dog has a win, or other accomplishment that
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
February Brave-Heart to Heart
I'm sorry this months newsletter is a little late. I have, like so many others been dealing with a nasty cold and am just now starting to feel better.
Despite being sick, last weekend I went to the Great Minds - The Art and Science of Animal Training lecture at the University of North Texas. Traveling sick was no fun, but the lecture, just like last year was really good. I saw Kay Laurence, a fabulous dog training from England, Bob Bailey, world famous multi species animal trainer, Ken Ramirez, awesome multi species animal trainer from Shedd Aquarium, Steve Martin, a multi species animal trainer who does a lot of work with birds, Alexandra Kurland, well known horse clicker trainer. It was great and as usual I had several eye opening moments. It was cool. My favorite quote that I brought home was from Dr. Jesus Rosales Ruiz, the head of the UNT behavior department who said "Whoever is complaining about the behavior is probably the one maintaining it." This is such a brilliant quote since it's so true that behavior has to be reinforced to be maintained, and it's usually the person who wants the behavior to go away that is the one reinforcing. Very true in dog training!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Kiva and Kaylee
Kiva and Kaylee are Keeshonden who live with Kent and Debbie Patton. Both Kiva and Kaylee have been coming to Braveheart Dog Training since they were little puppies. Kiva has been through several of our classes and Kaylee, who is currently being show in conformation attends our conformation classes.
Upcoming Classes
Please visit our website at www.braveheartdogtraining.com to see our upcoming classes!
Yelp!
We love referrals and good reviews!! If you like Braveheart Dog Training and have enjoyed our classes, please consider writing a review for us on Yelp.com!
Facebook
We now officially have a Braveheart Dog Training Facebook page. If you are on Facebook, look up Braveheart Dog Training and become a fan!
Despite being sick, last weekend I went to the Great Minds - The Art and Science of Animal Training lecture at the University of North Texas. Traveling sick was no fun, but the lecture, just like last year was really good. I saw Kay Laurence, a fabulous dog training from England, Bob Bailey, world famous multi species animal trainer, Ken Ramirez, awesome multi species animal trainer from Shedd Aquarium, Steve Martin, a multi species animal trainer who does a lot of work with birds, Alexandra Kurland, well known horse clicker trainer. It was great and as usual I had several eye opening moments. It was cool. My favorite quote that I brought home was from Dr. Jesus Rosales Ruiz, the head of the UNT behavior department who said "Whoever is complaining about the behavior is probably the one maintaining it." This is such a brilliant quote since it's so true that behavior has to be reinforced to be maintained, and it's usually the person who wants the behavior to go away that is the one reinforcing. Very true in dog training!
DOG OF THE MONTH
Kiva and Kaylee
Kiva and Kaylee are Keeshonden who live with Kent and Debbie Patton. Both Kiva and Kaylee have been coming to Braveheart Dog Training since they were little puppies. Kiva has been through several of our classes and Kaylee, who is currently being show in conformation attends our conformation classes.
Upcoming Classes
Please visit our website at www.braveheartdogtraining.com to see our upcoming classes!
Yelp!
We love referrals and good reviews!! If you like Braveheart Dog Training and have enjoyed our classes, please consider writing a review for us on Yelp.com!
We now officially have a Braveheart Dog Training Facebook page. If you are on Facebook, look up Braveheart Dog Training and become a fan!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Braveheart Agility Classes
I wanted to give everyone an update and heads up about the recreational agility classes that I offer on Saturdays in Castro Valley. As some of you know, I had decided to discontinue offering the agility classes. There are a few reasons for this. The main reason is that the agility equipment is heavy and awkward and I have ongoing problems with my back. Teaching four classes in a row in addition to taking out, setting up, moving, breaking down and putting away the agility equipment has made Saturdays very difficult for me. Typically, my back will hurt for at least a day after this. It's just too much. It makes me very sad because I know that people are upset with this decision. I don't want to take away a class that people enjoy, but I do need to protect my body and my ability to continue working.
Right now, I am tossing around some ideas in my head to see if I can figure out a way to continue to offer the agility classes. One of those options is to only offer one agility class (either Agility 1 or Agility 2) and alternate back and forth each session between the two. This would cut my classes down to 3 rather than 4 which would help. Another option is to ask students to come early and stay to help Kathy and I with equipment. This is standard in most agility classes, I have just never done it. So, I may give it a shot this way and see how it works out.
Just so everyone knows we do have an Agility 1 AND an Agility 2 class starting in Castro Valley on February 27 which we WILL be offering. Those classes have not and will not be cancelled, they will run as planned on schedule.
I am sorry for any upset this has caused. I am trying to figure out a way to keep everyone happy while still keeping myself safe.
Thank you for your understanding.
Right now, I am tossing around some ideas in my head to see if I can figure out a way to continue to offer the agility classes. One of those options is to only offer one agility class (either Agility 1 or Agility 2) and alternate back and forth each session between the two. This would cut my classes down to 3 rather than 4 which would help. Another option is to ask students to come early and stay to help Kathy and I with equipment. This is standard in most agility classes, I have just never done it. So, I may give it a shot this way and see how it works out.
Just so everyone knows we do have an Agility 1 AND an Agility 2 class starting in Castro Valley on February 27 which we WILL be offering. Those classes have not and will not be cancelled, they will run as planned on schedule.
I am sorry for any upset this has caused. I am trying to figure out a way to keep everyone happy while still keeping myself safe.
Thank you for your understanding.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
New Facebook Page
I have just created an official Braveheart Dog Training Facebook page. I will be deleting the Braveheart Facebook group and just using this page to post on Facebook for Braveheart. You can get Braveheart Facebook postings by clicking on the heading above and choosing to Become a Fan!
No Conformation Class on Tuesday, February 2
There will be no drop in conformation classes on Tuesday, February 2. Classes will resume on February 9.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Canine Massage and Grooming Class, Sunday, January 10
We still have a few openings in the Canine Massage and Grooming class that will be held on Sunday, January 10 from 10am to 12pm in San Leandro. The cost is $40. Please contact me if you are interested.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
My essay makes it to the finals!
The following is an essay that I wrote for the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) Train Your Dog Month contest. My essay make the finals, now the APDT membership will vote and choose a winner from each category and an overall winner. Wish me luck!
Allison and Remy- Helping a Teenage Dog Find His Way
I met Remy, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog when he was just a 10-week-old puppy. He was a friendly and adorable rolly polly chunk of a puppy. Allison, Remy's owner, got him as a puppy and was taking my Puppy Preschool class determined to make sure Remy grew up social and happy. She was going to do everything right with this dog. Remy breezed through class, easily picking up the behaviors we taught with clicker training. He was an eager and responsive learner. He was a fun puppy to train.Allison got Remy from a reputable breeder and intended to show Remy in conformation. So, while he didn't do my beginning classes, he did attend my conformation drop in classes. As Remy got bigger and bigger, it became apparent that he may need more basic training. In conformation class Remy seemed uninterested in Allison and instead wanted to go visit other dogs and pull her around for the ride. She was barely able to control him.
By the time Remy was about 10 months old, he was more than a challenge and Allison was at her wits end. He was easily over 100 pounds. Allison is a small woman and standing next to her, Remy looked huge. She sent me an email and laid it all out on the line. She was frustrated with him. She felt he was out of control and that she couldn't control him. Allison's first Swissy, Dexter, who had recently passed away, was very different from Remy. Dexter was shy and insecure compared to Remy and in Allison's eyes, much easier to deal with. So, this new, exuberant, active, and super outgoing dog was extremely challenging for her.
Allison said she loved my training style and methods but that other Swissy people were telling her that she needed to be "firmer" with him and "get on him" more. She said that while she thought positive methods worked for Dexter, based on what she was hearing she wasn't so sure it would work for Remy. Did she need to be tougher with him? Should she take my beginning class? Did I think it would work for Remy? She asked me to be honest. I have to say here how much I respected her for coming to me with honest and completely valid questions and concerns. She could have just walked away, but she genuinely wanted to do what was best for Remy.
She asked for my honest opinion so I gave it to her. I told her that I felt that Remy would benefit greatly from doing my beginning obedience/manners class, which is all clicker training. I told her that I could see her frustration and that I felt they were working against each other instead of with each other. I told her that Remy was just too big for her to be able to "make" him do anything anyway, so it would be best for her to try and teach him to want to do it. I also sent her an article, written by Suzanne Clothier called How Much Does Your Dogs Cooperation Weigh? I recommended she take the class and take it from there.
She read the article and decided to take the class. From the first moment that they walked into the beginning class together, I could see that things had changed. Allison had made a conscious decision to work with Remy as her partner. When she made that choice, she never looked back and neither did Remy. She worked very hard with Remy and he excelled in class. Each week they would come in and have a great time together. Allison was extremely patient with Remy and she always made sure to set him up to succeed. Every week I saw them successfully learn the behaviors we were working on. Remy no longer seemed distracted and uninterested; he watched her more and was eager and happy to work with her. When Remy did seem distracted she would simply give him more distance from the other dogs or ask for something that was easier for him to succeed at. They were no longer working against each other, they had become a team. They were partners.
Allison and Remy continue to come to my advanced class. Remy is over a year old now and is still being shown in conformation and is handled by Allison. Last week they came into class with a picture of Remy's most recent win. He was also wearing the new collar that he had won at the dog show. She mentioned to me that many of the people at the show commented to her about how great Remy was doing now and how well behaved he was in the show ring. They were all impressed. And, so am I. Allison changed her behavior so that Remy could change his.
This story is not over. Remy is still a young dog and of course Allison will have to continue to work with him so that he can continue to improve and learn more. And, I know she will because when I see her in class look down at her dog and smile, and I see him look up at her and smile, I know that they are both enjoying themselves and the training process itself. They are a team and they are in it for the long haul together.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Therapy Dog Orientation
A client of mine asked me to share this. I have attended this free orientation and then went on to get my dog Winnie's Delta Society Therapy Dog certification. Winnie retired last year but it was a great experience. Anyone wanting to do therapy dog work, should start right here!
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A THERAPY DOG TEAM?
P R E S E N T A T I O N B Y K A T H Y M O N T G O M E R Y
* Sunday, January 17, 2010 *
1 : 0 0 P. M .
C O N T R A C O S TA WAT E R D I S T R I C T O F F I C E
1 3 3 1 C O N C O R D AV E , C O N C O R D C A
Sponsored By
Nor-Cal Toy Dog Fanciers
Poodle Club of Central California
Golden Gate Shih Tzu Fanciers
* * *
Invite your friends/ puppy buyers/ fellow exhibitors!
Kathy’s presentation at the Cavalier National Specialty got rave reviews!
* * *
Invite your friends/ puppy buyers/ fellow exhibitors!
Kathy’s presentation at the Cavalier National Specialty got rave reviews!
* * *
Kathy Montgomery is a licensed instructor, Evaluator and Evaluator Instructor for the Delta Society Pet Partners and has been involved in pet therapy for 15+ years. She initiated the hospital programs for Sutter General and Memorial in Sacramento, and was also instrumental in initiating the program for Shriners Childrenʼs Hospital, and in evaluating therapy teams for Stanford Hospital and Lucile Packard Childrenʼs Hospital. Kathy currently uses her Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (Marty & Little Boom), but initiated her visiting programs with a Wheaten Terrier (Zipper) and her Tibetan Terrier (Beetle). Kathy will discuss the commitment involved, the types of facilities that welcome therapy teams, and hat skills are needed for a
successful Therapy Dog Team. She will provide information about: 1. Different national organizations who offer testing, liability insurance, etc. 2. Differences/skills needed in working a small dog vs. a large dog 3. Patient/staff/family reactions to dogs in facilities - good AND bad.
successful Therapy Dog Team. She will provide information about: 1. Different national organizations who offer testing, liability insurance, etc. 2. Differences/skills needed in working a small dog vs. a large dog 3. Patient/staff/family reactions to dogs in facilities - good AND bad.
Sign - Ups & Questions: Sally Vilas: phone: 510-276-5521 or email: vilenzo@earthlink.net
Free - but help us plan by signing up in advance (Do not bring a dog)
General Meeting of Nor-Cal Toy Dog Fanciers will follow this seminar
Directions:
From Sacramento area: Hwy I-80 West towards San Francisco; merge onto I-680S via exit 40/Benecia/San
Jose.
Merge onto CA4 via exit 53 toward Antioch/Pittsburgh; merge onto CA242 via exit 15A towards Oakland/
Concord. Take Concord Ave exit; 1331 on right side of street.
From Bay Area: From Hwy I-880, take Hwy I-980 East toward CA24/Berkeley/Walnut Creek; Merge onto I-680North
(left lanes toward Sacramento/Concord). Merge onto 242 North via exit 50/ Concord Pittsburgh; exit Clayton Road
toward Concord; left turn onto Market Street, left turn onto Concord Ave; 1331 on right side of street.
From Livermore: Take Hwy I-580 West toward Oakland; merge onto I-680 North toward Sacramento
Merge onto CA 242 Norht via exit 50 toward Concord /Pittsburgh. TAke Clayton Road exit toward Concord.
Turn left onto Market St; Turn left onto Concord Ave; 1331 is on the right.
From Sacramento area: Hwy I-80 West towards San Francisco; merge onto I-680S via exit 40/Benecia/San
Jose.
Merge onto CA4 via exit 53 toward Antioch/Pittsburgh; merge onto CA242 via exit 15A towards Oakland/
Concord. Take Concord Ave exit; 1331 on right side of street.
From Bay Area: From Hwy I-880, take Hwy I-980 East toward CA24/Berkeley/Walnut Creek; Merge onto I-680North
(left lanes toward Sacramento/Concord). Merge onto 242 North via exit 50/ Concord Pittsburgh; exit Clayton Road
toward Concord; left turn onto Market Street, left turn onto Concord Ave; 1331 on right side of street.
From Livermore: Take Hwy I-580 West toward Oakland; merge onto I-680 North toward Sacramento
Merge onto CA 242 Norht via exit 50 toward Concord /Pittsburgh. TAke Clayton Road exit toward Concord.
Turn left onto Market St; Turn left onto Concord Ave; 1331 is on the right.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
January 2010 - BraveHeart to Heart
Happy New Year everyone! I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Years! I sure did and am ready to take off running on the classes starting for Braveheart!
Dog of the Month
Remy Ching
Remy is a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog belonging to Allison Ching. Remy started with Braveheart has a tiny puppy in our preschool classes and has continued through our Intermediate class and conformation classes. Currently, Remy is being shown in conformation and already has some nice wins under his belt at a young age. Allison has done a beautiful job with Remy and we are very happy to have them in our classes.
Upcoming Classes
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Thursdays, 7pm, San Lorenzo, starts January 7, 6 weeks
Puppy Preschool, Thursdays, 6pm, San Lorenzo, starts January 7, 6 weeks
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate, Saturdays, San Leandro, January 9, 4 weeks
Canine Massage/Grooming, Sunday, San Leandro, January 10, 1 session
Drop in conformation classes start back up on Tueday, January 5.
Drop in Rally classes start back up on Monday, January 25.
More classes being added! Keep checking the website.
Playgroups
Welcome Yvonne Chohan as the new Braveheart Small Dog and Puppy Playgroups Supervisor. We will all miss Maureen but I am so happy that Yvonne stepped in to take over playgroups. I know that you will all love her!
Dog of the Month
Remy Ching
Remy is a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog belonging to Allison Ching. Remy started with Braveheart has a tiny puppy in our preschool classes and has continued through our Intermediate class and conformation classes. Currently, Remy is being shown in conformation and already has some nice wins under his belt at a young age. Allison has done a beautiful job with Remy and we are very happy to have them in our classes.
Upcoming Classes
Beginning Obedience/Manners, Thursdays, 7pm, San Lorenzo, starts January 7, 6 weeks
Puppy Preschool, Thursdays, 6pm, San Lorenzo, starts January 7, 6 weeks
Indoor/Outdoor Intermediate, Saturdays, San Leandro, January 9, 4 weeks
Canine Massage/Grooming, Sunday, San Leandro, January 10, 1 session
Drop in conformation classes start back up on Tueday, January 5.
Drop in Rally classes start back up on Monday, January 25.
More classes being added! Keep checking the website.
Playgroups
Welcome Yvonne Chohan as the new Braveheart Small Dog and Puppy Playgroups Supervisor. We will all miss Maureen but I am so happy that Yvonne stepped in to take over playgroups. I know that you will all love her!
Conformation Classes
Drop in Conformation classes will start back up on Tuesday, January 5. Hope to see you then!
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