Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to common questions we receive. If you need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or email!
General
What is the first step in training?
All of our training programs begin with an Evaluation at our center.
Do you offer obedience training?
No, we do not offer obedience training at our facility. We believe in establishing your relationship with your dog before applying obedience training. Our focus revolves around Natural Dog Behavior and operating with a healthy, functional pack mentality.
What is the difference between obedience training & Natural Dog Behavior?
Obedience training is simply teaching your dog to behave in a certain way when given certain commands. However, Natural Dog Behavior goes much deeper than that. We teach you to understand and see the world the way your dog does. This allows for more proper communication and a much healthier relationship between you and your dog. By grasping this concept, you learn to become the pack leader your dog dreams for you to be.
Does your facility have air conditioning and heat?
Yes, our facility is equipped with both air conditioning for the summer and heat for the winter. We also have 24-hour video surveillance.
Is someone there every day to care for the dogs?
Of course. We always have staff working in the kennel taking wonderful care of the dogs, whether they are training or boarding with us. This includes all days of the week, as well as holidays when our office is not open. On certain holidays, such as July 4th, staff members remain at the facility overnight to ensure the safety of the dogs staying with us.
What times are you available for appointments?
Appointments can be made Tuesday – Saturday between 8:00AM – 12:00PM and 2:00PM – 4:00PM.
Where is your facility located?
U.S. Canine is located in Jefferson, Georgia. However, we work with clients all across the country, including numerous animal hospitals and dog daycare facilites.
Evaluations
How much does an evaluation cost?
A non-refundable fee of $100 is required to schedule an evaluation, which will be applied toward the cost of any future training program. Scheduled appointments may be rescheduled one time only, with a minimum 48-hour notice. Cancellations are non-refundable.
Can you perform an evaluation at my home?
Unfortunately, no. All evaluations take place at our facility. This is because it gives our behavior specialists an opportunity to see your dog’s true temperament and Dogenality when removed from their comfort zone and normal environment. It tells us who your dog really is.
How long is an evaluation?
In most cases, evaluations are scheduled for one hour and vary based on the severity of your dog’s behavior.
What goes on during an evaluation?
During your evaluation, you and your dog will meet with one of our skilled behavior specialists and they will visually assess the issues going on with your dog. This also provides an opportunity to speak with your family and get a much more clear understanding of what is going on within your pack. Depending on the problems your dog is having, we may test them with other dogs or do other tests specific to your circumstances.
What if I have more than one dog?
We highly encourage families with more than one dog to bring the entire pack in for your evaluation. This gives us the ability to witness the dynamic of your pack and allow for a much better understanding on what programs would be best for your dog(s).
Consultations
How long are consultations?
Consultations at our center are scheduled for two hours. They may vary based on the severity of your dog’s issues. Consultations in your home are also two hours, but typically run a bit longer.
What happens during a consultation?
The core of what goes on during a consultation is teaching you and your family how to effectively communicate with your dog in a way that they naturally understand, so that you may begin changing the way they behave and interpret the world. You will work hands-on with one of our behavior specialists, either at your home or in our center. They will walk you through all of the steps needed to rehabilitate your dog’s behavior and put them on the right track for success.
How many consultations will I need?
Regardless of the behavior problems your dog is exhibiting, it’s likely that you will only need one consultation. Only very rare cases call for more than one consultation.
How can my dog learn everything in only two hours?
You will see immense changes in your dog’s behavior in two hours. The bulk of what our training consists of is teaching you and your family the most effective and natural ways to communicate with your dog. This is where the magic happens. You will learn the core of our philosophy and be able to apply it towards every dog that you encounter. We serve as a dependable relationship/life coach between you and your dog. While our specialists do perform hands-on work with your dog, it is the education that you receive that will ultimately be the determining factor in your dog’s amazing new behavior.
Can you come to my home if I'm not near your facility?
Absolutely. We travel to distant clients on a regular basis. However, prices may vary based on your location in reference to our facility.
Immersion Program
How long will my dog have to stay with you?
In most cases, dogs will spend an average of 2-3 weeks here at our center. The true amount of time your dog will need to stay with us is ultimately determined by their behavior issues and severity of the problems. After attending an evaluation with us, we will be able to give you a more accurate answer.
Can I take my dog home at night?
Unfortunately, no. The main reason for the Immersion Program is to have your dog immersed in our culture. This is where the magic happens. Taking your dog home at any time during the program will have a negative effect on the outcome and their overall behavior.
Can I come see my dog during the program?
No, the only times you will see your dog during the program is during your lessons. This is to ensure the success of the Immersion Program. However, you will be able to see their photo on Facebook daily, between Monday and Friday.
Client Boarding
How much does it cost for boarding?
We charge $75/night for boarding. If you would like your dog to eat our house food, we charge an additional $10/night. We charge Holiday/Peak Boarding pricing of $100 per night during Holiday seasons or any time we are at capacity. Boarding Space is limited so please make your reservation in advance if possible, especially around the holidays!
Do I need a reservation?
“Yes, reservations are required for boarding. We recommend making reservations a month or two in advance
to make sure we will have room to board your pup.”
What vaccinations do you require?
Required vaccinations are:
– Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
– Canine Influenza Bivalent
– Distemper
– Rabies
– Negative fecal test performed within the past 6 months
What do I need to bring?
It is not required that you bring anything when boarding your dog. However, we recommend bringing their personal food, as we charge an extra $7/day if you decide to have them eat our house food. We have plenty of beds, blankets, and other things to ensure that your dog has a comfy stay when they’re here. Feel free to bring any treats, special blankets, favorite toys, etc. for them to have while they’re at our facility.
Please note: During holiday seasons, we may require you to bring your own dog crate for boarding.
Can you administer my dog's medication?
Please note – we will charge a small fee for administering medications. Please bring your pet’s medication in the original bottle with any prescription medication drug label and instructions.
What do you do with older/more sensitive dogs?
The care your dog receives at our facility is our number one concern. Dogs that may be older, more sensitive, or geriatric receive special treatment, especially when the weather becomes extreme. In addition to our outdoor pack, we have an indoor environment where these dogs can relax and spend time with other dogs of their type and our amazing staff.
Miscellaneous
Do you offer refunds?
We do not offer refunds. We only offer no charge follow-ups at the center for the rest of the life of the dog.
Can I use my daycare packages for overnight boarding?
Preferably not. These are intended for daycare only. Decisions can be made on a case by case basis.
Resources
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