Teach dog to 'sit,' 'stay' with classes

The Anderson Animal Shelter is now taking enrollment for the upcoming dog obedience classes at the South Elgin shelter, 1000 S. LaFox Road (Route 31).

The basic obedience class begins at 6 p.m. Thursday and runs for six weeks.

It is designed to help dogs ages 5 months and older learn basic obedience skills. This class also can be used as a refresher before the intermediate obedience class.

Commands covered include "sit," "down," "stay," "walk," "off," "watch," come when called and "settle."

Proper food bowl etiquette will be introduced and problem behaviors such as jumping up, barking, exercise and socialization, destructive behaviors and chewing also will be addressed.

The shelter also is introducing a new class titled "Make Way for Baby." It is designed to help parents-to-be with their dog's manners and behavior. Dogs of all ages are welcome.

In addition to the previous commands, "give" or "drop" will be introduced. Owners will teach their dogs how to stay calm in a number of situations, and proper food bowl and possession rules also will be covered.

Dogs will learn how to "walk around" the baby blanket, to "back up" and to "go to bed." Since many dogs react to toddlers moving, the shelter staff also address how to curb the chase/herding instinct. Interested parents-to-be should contact the shelter to enroll in the next class.

The shelter also offers one-on-one dog training, either in the home or in the shelter.

To enroll in one of these classes or ask questions about the dog training program, contact Jennie Kang, certified pet dog trainer, at (847) 697-2880, ext. *23.

For information about the shelter and its programs, call (847) 697-2880 or visit www.andersonanimalshelter.org.