Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC

May 2025 Newsletter 2026

Classes are in progress now. The next group STAR PUPPY course offered will be on Mondays at 10 am beginning May 4th. All new clients need to schedule an eval prior to enrollment. Puppies need to be at least 16 weeks old to begin the course. After 12 months of age, dogs would need the Level 1 for the Adult dog course. We do not accept dogs with aggression issues into our programs. This will be no group courses offered now through mid July with a possibility of a STAR Puppy class late July (no start date set yet).

Level 1 for the Adult Dog course is only ever offered privately through the day time hours as time slots open up. Some times there is a waitlist for this course since time slots are booked for 6 weeks.

Level 2 will be offered at the end of the summer when everyone's schedule becomes more dependable. Groups tend to fall apart over the summer months with vacation schedules. Watch for more details on the start date in August newsletter. Pre-requisite = Level 1 graduate.

As the current clients' courses wrap up in early/mid June, Happy Tails will then close until after the July 4th holiday. Thanks and enjoy your summer!

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

April Newsletter 2026

Spring is here! Just a reminder, we are open by appointment only. No drop-ins, or drop-offs. When a client's time for a lesson begins, I do not take calls, or interrupt their lesson. Appointments can be made by calling or messaging. Thanks!

Classes are in progress now. The next STAR PUPPY course offered will be on Mondays at 10 am beginning May 4th. All new clients need to schedule an eval prior to enrollment. Puppies need to be at least 16 weeks old to begin the course. After 12 months of age, dogs would need the Level 1 for the Adult dog course. We do not accept dogs with aggression issues into our programs.

The Level 1 Course for the Adult Dog is only offered privately through the daytime hours. There are a limited number of time spots available for courses done privately, and sometimes there is a waitlist. We no longer offer evening hours.

We are just now wrapping up our spring session of Level 2 . It will be offered again in the fall session as Groups tend to fall apart in the summer with everyone's vacation schedules. Start dates will be announced in August.

Tuesdays are still reserved for those interested in competition/specialty/titles--rally, show obedience, conformation, tricks, etc.

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

February/March Newsletter 2026

Upcoming Courses:

Next offering of STAR PUPPY will be Wednesdays at 10 am beginning April 1st. All new clients must schedule an eval prior to enrollment. No dogs with aggressions issues will be accepted. Course descriptions can be found on the webpage. The STAR puppy course is for puppies at least 16 weeks, and under 12 month of age.

Adults (12 months and older) with no previous training will need the Level 1 for the Adult Dog course, only offered privately for a six-week time period- daytime only.

Level 2 will be on Thursdays at 10 am beginning March 5th. (Pre-requisite: Level 1, Graduates: Let me know if you would like a spot held for you.)

Tuesdays reserved for "specialty" clients---(rally, competition, conformation, tricks, etc.)

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (We no longer offer evening hours.)

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

January Newsletter 2026

Happy New Year!

We reopen from our holiday break on January 5th. During the month of January, I will be scheduling and doing evals for upcoming courses, and current clients will be resuming lessons. Evening courses are no longer offered.

New clients & groups forming will have February start dates. The first STAR PUPPY course to be offered will be on Wednesdays at 10 am beginning February 4th. (filled) Next offering of STAR PUPPY will be Mondays at 10 am beginning March 2nd. All new clients must schedule an eval prior to enrollment. No dogs with aggressions issues will be accepted. Course descriptions can be found on the webpage. The STAR puppy course is for puppies at least 16 weeks, and under 12 month of age.

Adults (12 months and older) with no previous training will need the Level 1 for the Adult Dog course, only offered privately for a six-week time period- daytime only.

Level 2 will be offered in late February, tentatively looking at Thursdays at 10 am. (Level 1 graduates: Let me know if you would like a spot held for you.)

Over the Christmas break, I made some changes to the program. Level 3 (Advanced CGC/Community Canine prep) is being phased out due to time constraints. I am so overwhelmed by the number of puppies filling up my hours that I've made a decision to phase out the Level 3 course. Level 3 needs a nice group of handler/dog teams--I often have to wait until there is enough interest for this level ( and I hate to make those clients wanting it wait) so this was the course I chose to eliminate.

However as an AKC evaluator, I can still do the testing for the CGCA (Advanced Canine Good Citizen/Community Canine Award/Title).

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (We no longer offer evening hours.)

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

December 2025

Have a great holiday season!

Only one more STAR PUPPY class left to graduate as we wrap up it up for this year! No new group courses to start until after the new year. With the holidays approaching, we find there is just too much going on for many to commit to the 6 weeks’ worth of lessons and the groups tend to fall apart. THANKS to everyone for allowing us to participate in the training of your pup this year. I will plan the January calendar this month, but most all group courses will start in February, and will only be held during daytime hours--we no longer have evening hours. I will update the newsletter as courses are planned. We will be closed December 19th through the holidays, and will reopen Jan. 5th. Any messages or calls left will be returned when we reopen. Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

November 2025 Newsetter

Holidays are coming fast! (Update as of 11/24: will not be starting any new clients until 2026)

STAR PUPPY group courses are in progress now. No new group courses to start until the new year. With the holidays approaching, we find there is just too much going on during the holiday season for many to commit to the 6 weeks’ worth of lessons and the groups tend to fall apart.

Level 2- (CGC prep) just wrapped up for the year too. I will be planning the January schedule next month. If any level 1 graduates are interested in the level 2 course, send me a message so I can plan accordingly.

Level 3- (CGCA prep)- The next level 3 is tentatively scheduled for Feb./Mar.

I still offer privates for the Level 1 for the Adult Dog course; and The STAR PUPPY course can be done privately as well. These private time spots are only available through the daytime hours as current clients graduate. These time spots are currently filled and as these clients graduate in Nov/Dec, we will not be starting any new clients until January 2026.

Tuesdays are still reserved for those interested in competition/specialty/titles--rally, show obedience, conformation, tricks, etc.

Watch the upcoming newsletters--when courses are posted and you find one that works with your schedule, call or message to get an eval scheduled. All new clients are required to schedule an eval prior to enrollment which also hold your spot in the class.

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.) Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

September/October 2025 Newsletter

GROUP COURSES:

Level 2 (CGC Prep course) -Thursdays at 10 am beginning September 11th.--Prerequisite: Level 1 graduate. Call or send message to hold a spot for you and your dog.

STAR PUPPY -Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 9/17. All new clients must schedule an eval prior to enrollment. The next STAR PUPPY Group course is scheduled for Mondays at 10 am beginning 10/20.

UPDATE (10/23): Courses for the fall sessions have been filled . Next groups will be Jan/Feb 2026.

We no longer hold evening hour courses. Daytime hours only.

Limited availability for courses done privately.

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

August 2025 Newsletter

Lots of vacationing still going on, so we are going to remain only offering private-session courses during the month of August. These courses run for 6 consecutive weeks, one-hour each week, so make sure you can be available before you sign up for a course. People wonder why it takes a while to get in for lessons, and often it is the person who keeps missing their class who makes the delay for openings. I can hold your spot for only 6 six weeks; after that you may have to schedule another time slot for any makeups.

Currently there are no group courses to start in August as previously planned. September hopefully will be back to a more normal schedule. -Will be posting Sept. course start dates soon (see below).

UPDATE: GROUP COURSES starting in SEPTEMBER:

Level 2 (CGC Prep course) -Thursdays at 10 am beginning September 11th.--Prerequisite: Level 1 graduate. Call or send message to hold a spot for you and your dog.

STAR PUPPY -Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 9/17. All new clients must schedule an eval prior to enrollment.

After much thought and consideration, we will no longer be holding evening courses. Daytime hours only.

Hours (open by appt. only--no walk-ins.)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (privates)

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

June/July 2025 Newsletter

Closed for vacation 6/30/-7/7. Happy 4th of July!

No new group courses will start in June or July. Courses are only offered privately through the daytime hours during June and July due to vacation schedules. (Times slots for privates in June and July are now filled). Next availability for privates will be mid-August.

Tentative: The next group STAR PUPPY course is scheduled for Wednesdays at 10 am beginning August 27th. Will be doing evals for this group in August.

Congratulations to several of our clients who are continuing to advance their dogs: Jamie with her two Corgis, Hugo and Willow--and Terri with her Standard Poodle, Alakai--they are now certified, registered therapy dogs through ATD. Sharan with her Goldendoodle, Daisy completed the Rally Excellent title, and Betty with her Sheepadoodle, Oreo completed the Rally Intermediate title. Well Done!!

Hours (open by appt. only-no walk-ins.)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (privates)

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

May 2025 Newsletter

Lots of classes are in progress now, so watch for our new graduates in upcoming days.

There are only 2 group courses coming up this month: Level 3 starts 5/12 - Mondays at 10 am, and a Level 2 starting 5/27 - Tuesdays at 1pm.

Once the current group STAR PUPPY courses wrap up this month, the STAR PUPPY course (for puppies around 16 weeks of age up to under 12 months) will only be offered privately through the day time hours in June and July. We will be making the transition, as we do every year at this time, to only offer private sessions during the daytime hours since groups tend to fall apart with vacation schedules. June and July will not have any group course offerings. Groups will resume mid-late August, and course offerings will be announced in the July newsletter.

Tuesday mornings are still reserved for those interested in earning obedience/rally/tricks titles, or those having special interests such as conformation, service.

To those of you in the Fit Dog Club-we will be scheduling a few more walks which will be announced via email.

TIP: Do some research before bringing your puppy home! I've seen a couple of mismatches this spring (dog and owner not compatible) --Do your research before adding a dog to the family. Be sure it is the right breed for you. Do you have enough time for it? Also look at the literature available about puppy temperament testing--a lot of info can be obtained about your pup's natural traits. Is it going to be head-strong and challenging, willing to submit, or introverted and fearful? Are you willing and able to work with a pup with these tendencies? No two pups are ever the same even within breeds and litters. Every pup is different!

Happy Tails Vacation this summer will be 6/30 through 7/7--closed during this time.

Hours (open by appt. only-no walk-ins.)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (groups and privates)

(3p-5p usually closed to care for my own animals)

Wed. evenings for groups only, usually 6pm start.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

APRIL 2025

Some courses will have a slight price increase starting 4/15.

We have some STAR PUPPY courses beginning April 9th.

There will be a morning STAR PUPPY class starting April 30th at 10 am. Evals are required of all new clients prior to enrollment. Get signed up soon.

We started a morning Level 2 (CGC Prep) course on 3/24 which will run for 6 weeks.

- Level 1 Graduates: The next tentative start date for a Level 2 Course would be Thursdays at 10 am beginning of May --but I have to hear from you for a definite start date. Level 2 will now only be offered through the daytime hours. The puppy group classes take up all our evening availability. If you are a graduate and have been waiting for an evening Level 2, please reach out and let me know to see what can be worked out.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog will have limited opening toward the end of April.

We are still working on Tuesdays toward titles, and specialty work.

Hours (by appt. only)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (groups and privates)

(3p-5p usually closed to care for my own animals)

Wed. evenings for groups only (not available during winter session)-- usually 6pm start.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

March 2025 Newsletter

UPCOMING COURSES

STAR Puppy courses: Mornings: Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 4/9 (still has openings). Evenings: Wednesdays at 6pm beginning 4/9/25 (Filled). Evals are required of all new clients prior to enrollment. (These will be the last courses offered at the current rate of $169/course.)

Level 2 (CGC prep)- Monday mornings at 10 am beginning 3/24 (Filled)- Next level 2 morning course- Thursday mornings at 10 am, (tentative start 4/17); and an evening course, Wednesdays at 7:15 pm ( if enough interest from graduate students). Those of you who asked to be contacted will be notified soon with details -

Tuesdays are reserved as a "specialty" day for those wanting rally/obedience for competition or service/trick dog work.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog will have limited openings end of march /early April.

Hours (by appt. only)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (groups and privates)

(3p-5p usually closed to care for my own animals)

Wed. evenings for groups only (not available during winter session)-- 6p, 7:15p

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

February 2025 Newsletter

Many classes are filled and in progress now -- and will conclude the end of Feb/beginning of March. There are no evening courses offered over the winter session.

The only course offering for a February start will be a STAR PUPPY course on Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 2/12. Evals are required of all new clients prior to enrolling in a course. (filled)

The next STAR Puppy course is tentatively scheduled for April 9th, but the start date is weather dependent. If we have cancellation due to weather in the previous courses, it will delay the start of future courses. Evals will be done mid March for this course.

The next Level 2 will be late March (spring session), most likely a morning(Mondays at 10 am beginning March 24) and evening (date to be determined) session. If you are interested, let me know that you would like notified of start date. Pre-requisite for Level 2: Level 1 graduate, and our graduates have priority over openings.

Hours (by appt. only)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (groups and privates)

(3p-5p usually closed to care for my own animals)

Wed. evenings for groups only (not available during winter session)-- 6p, 7:15p

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

January 2025 Newsletter

Hi, and Happy New Year! During the holiday break, I have been reevaluating our plans. Happy Tails is an LLC owned and operated by me--also the trainer, the office manager/receptionist/scheduler/ bookkeeper/supplies/banking/errands/phone & online messaging, janitor, groundskeeper, and the list goes on and on. Then I also have my own animals to care for throughout the day. My top priority is training you and your dog, so I do not answer calls while in session with clients. Some days start early and end late, so calls may not be answered/returned the day you leave a message. Also, your message is not the only one received. There are a limited number of time slots available for lessons—people with puppies under a year old are the biggest demand of my time, so we offer more group sessions for puppies-- often day and evening sessions. The class for the adult dog with no previous training is only offered privately through the day hours. There is often a waitlist for this class because the time slots are limited for this age dog (one time slot for 1 dog for six weeks), and in the new year, we are reducing those time slots even more—I have to meet the greatest demand. Once a time slot is filled whether for a group or private, it is filled for a six-week period barring cancellations. We also offer higher levels of training beyond the beginner level, and these courses are in group settings. Since dogs, and dog shows, have been a way of life for me, those interested in competing, or having specialty needs, have opportunities on Tuesdays, again during daytime hours. We are open by appointment only. Training hours generally are between the hours of 9am and 2pm, with very limited evening hours for groups only. We are not open 24-7. I’ve had people call at 2 in the morning asking I return the call before they leave for work at 3am—isn’t going to happen. We are going to remain closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in the new year. Since the office is closed over the weekend, no calls will be returned until the beginning of the following week. I am a retired RN who has enjoyed training dogs for over 40 years. Although I am so happy with the many referrals I get from my clients since retiring from nursing and opening the business, I want this to remain part-time so that I can continue to enjoy my time with you and your dog/puppy. With that in mind, I will be cutting back evening hours in the new year with no evenings offered during the winter session. I realize that many of you can only come after work, but after working all day, I am tired too, and it’s dark, the pavement may be icy, etc. When we do resume evening classes, the only evening will be Wednesdays in group settings. We will announce in the newsletter when there are upcoming courses with openings. We are not accepting any new clients at this time—the winter session is filled. Thank you for your support and understanding.---deb

Winter session: Jan 6-9th—evals for new clients that have an opening already reserved. Jan. 13th -winter session begins.

STAR PUPPY- January classes- Filled February newsletter will announce next start dates. (Since January can be an “iffy” weather month, we can get delayed with an ongoing class, which then delays the start schedule).

Adult Level 1 (Privates)—Will be contacting those on the waitlist with start dates. Only offered at the 1pm time slot. Not accepting any new clients on the waitlist at this time.

Level 2 – Mornings Mondays at 10 am -tentative 3/24/25, and Evenings, Weds at 7:15pm- tentative 3/19/25. Level 1 Graduates: message me if you are interested and want a spot held for you. (Happy Tails Graduates have priority for openings.)

Level 3- Thursdays at 10 am beginning 1/30/25. I will be sending an email to those requesting I do so. (Limited openings- Happy tails graduates have priority for openings.)

Hours (by appt. only)

Mon-Thurs 9 am-2pm (groups and privates)

(3p-5p usually closed to care for my own animals)

Wed. evenings for groups only (not available during winter session)-- 6p, 7:15p

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (any calls or messages left will be returned when we reopen the following week.)

**No dogs are dropped off to be trained—you, the owner, do the training for one hour each week for a six-week course. Happy Tails is not a Board-and-Train facility.

December 2024 Newsletter

Only one more STAR PUPPY class left to graduate as we wrap up it up for this year! Thanks to everyone for allowing us to participate in the training of your puppy. We will be closed December 20 through the holiday season and will reopen Jan. 6th. Any messages or calls left will be returned when we reopen. Happy Tails will only have day hours during the January/February sessions--no evening classes.

The next STAR PUPPY course will be: Mondays at 10 am beginning January 20th. (May already be filled with the number of evals scheduled for the week we reopen). Tentatively, we may offer a Wednesday 10 am class to start 3 weeks after the Monday start. Evals are required of all new clients. Once a start date is set, we begin scheduling evals for these courses. NO EVENING COURSES IN JANUARY/FEBRUARY SESSIONS.

The next LEVEL 2 courses will start in February. Watch January newsletter for start dates (This may be the last time this course is offered in the evening hours.)

There will be a LEVEL 3 to start late January/early Feb-- Thursdays at 10 am. I will contact those who asked to be notified of a start date before posting.

I have a few names on the waitlist for the Level 1 for the Adult Dog Course. I will be contacting you later in the month to see if you are still interested in starting in January.

We will start up our Tuesdays again for those wanting to meet titling/competition goals in January.

We are OPEN by appointment only, and CLOSED Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

BEST WAY TO CONTACT: Please use the gmail account for messaging—I do not respond to messages on facebook—it has been an unreliable source. Also, can call 717-263-0053-leave message if no answer.

With Christmas season approaching, there are often thoughts of adding a puppy or dog to the family. And then we hear the many slogans: Adopt…Don’t shop / Shop…before you adopt / and the list goes on. Here’s mine: Whether you buy or adopt, shop, shop, shop!

As dog trainer for 40-plus years, I can get pretty riled up at some of the advice given to those wanting a new companion. Yes, there are lots of dogs out there needing homes, but why? ….. because someone didn’t shop. Do your research before bringing any dog into your home! Check out the breed and its characteristics, the breeder’s profile, your lifestyle and compatibility with the breed you’ve chosen, and any previous history behind the dog. Remember, Nature (breed genetics) and Nurture (how the pup is brought up) determine its outcome. Both are important, but buying a puppy who has barely been handled by humans until it is released for sale has put that puppy at a deficit. It has a lot of catching up to do vs. buying from a breeder who handles the pups from the day they are born working to present to you a well-adjusted pup. There would not be as many dogs in rescue if you did your research-keep away from those breeders just looking to make a profit! Since genetics and environment play a big role, look for breeders who are always looking to improve their line with health testings of parents, and only using breeding stock with good temperaments. Good breeders don’t breed dogs with defective qualities, or ones that produce defective qualities. Look for those who value their pups enough to put quality time and effort into each and every pup they produce. Good breeders often want the puppy back if it doesn’t work out in its new home. Back to rescue ... while every rescue tries to rehome the dogs in their care, not every dog is a good fit—many have not had that early handling, or someone to show them love—some may have gone through abuse and now react to certain triggers. Once again, please do your research……we can help reduce the rescue population if we shop before we act. We do more research (shopping) on the car or refrigerator we plan on buying than a live animal that may be with us up to 15 years. I’m amazed how many people live with aggressive, dangerous dogs! Why?…there are so many nice dogs that need homes. Yes, there are some very nice dogs that can be found in rescue, but again, do your research so they don’t end up back there again. Does this dog fit your lifestyle? There are huge rehoming lists where people post the reason being, “not enough time for dog”. Once you decide a dog seems to be a good fit, be committed and willing to invest the time needed in teaching and training so they learn to trust and experience love. Don’t pity them; learn to communicate with them-they are canines. Every species of animal I’ve ever trained, I’ve had to learn what the animal is trying to tell me with behaviors/mannerisms-- we learn to understand one another. Over the years I’ve had many clients say they went and looked at the puppies, and I “just wanted to get the pup out of those conditions.” But in doing so, while you helped one puppy, you just encouraged the “bad” breeder to produce more. Let’s help the rescues by making sure you are not buying from a puppy mill—just don’t go there—every puppy is cute, but… is it healthy, well-adjusted, had any early socialization? Look for a dedicated breeder! My advice whether you buy or adopt is to: Shop, Shop, Shop (in every case)—do your RESEARCH!

Enjoy this holiday season, and may God bless us, everyone!

November 2024 Newsletter

We have STAR PUPPY and Adult Level 1 Courses in progress now. As they wrap up, we will be into the holiday season, and we do not begin any group sessions during this time. The December newsletter will announce upcoming courses for Jan/Feb starts. During this “down” time here at Happy Tails, I am planning to reassess the programs offered, but for now…

STAR Puppy courses are usually offered on Wednesday mornings and Wednesday evenings. This is a small group setting. STAR PUPPY is a 6-week course, 1 hour each week for puppies up to 12 months of age. The fee listed is per course, and is not prorated per lesson. Puppies need to be current on all vaccinations, so 16 weeks is a good starting age. We build on each lesson from week to week, so it is important that you commit to this six-week period. There is a lot of information each week so that if you miss a week, you will fall behind. There is a mandatory requirement of six weeks of attendance as part of the AKC award if you are working towards it. If you know ahead of signing up that there are conflicts in your schedule with these class dates, this may not be the time for you to enroll. I have in the past offered makeup sessions for a slight fee; however, it is becoming quite common for missed classes/makeups. When you miss a Group class, I only can schedule you in a private time slot during the day, which then ties up the space I offer to those wanting private lesson/courses. This makeup fee will be increasing in the new year.

The Level 1 for the Adult Dog course is on a waitlist, and we will be contacting those of you on it in December to set up your start dates for January. This course is offered privately only through daytime hours -- most often on Mondays and Thursdays.

There will be a morning and evening level 2 group course offered late Jan/early Feb. I will send a notification to those clients who so requested prior to announcing on the newsletter.

Level 3 Course will be offered during daytime hours in the winter session if enough interest.

Tuesdays will still be reserved for my specialty clients (competition, rally, tricks, service, etc.). We also work toward AKC titles virtually on scheduled dates with clients in this setting.

We will be closed from December 20th through Jan 3rd. Any messages left during this time will be answered when we reopen Jan 6th.

We are OPEN by appointment only, and CLOSED Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

BEST WAY TO CONTACT: Please use the gmail account for messaging—I do not respond to messages on facebook—it has been an unreliable source. Also, can call 717-263-0053-leave message if no answer.

October 2024 Newsletter

Upcoming Group courses: All Fall classes are FILLED- will be doing evals late December/early January for winter sessions-Those start dates will be announced in December newsletter. Thanks!

STAR PUPPY (puppies under 12 month of age)-Wednesday evenings at 6 pm starting 10/9.--Wednesday mornings at 10 am starting 10/30. These courses will end mid-late November. We do not offer group courses over the holiday season, Thanksgiving through the New Year due to everyone's busy schedule. When we reopen groups in January, evals will be done the first full week of Jan. Evals are required of all new clients before enrolling. Getting an eval scheduled is what holds a spot for you in a class.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog course. Only offered privately through the day hours-Fall session time slots are filled. There is a waitlist for this course.

Level 2 (morning and evening courses) will be offered in the new year. (late January).

Tuesdays are reserved for specialty work--rally, tricks, testing, etc

With the return of better walking weather, hoping to schedule some FitDog walks to members-will be notified by email.

We do not accept dogs with aggression issues.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Please use gmail address -- debshappytailsdogtraining@gmail.com -- for messaging, or call (717-263-0053) and leave a message if there is no answer. We no longer respond to facebook messaging—you will get an automated response telling you how to contact us.

September 2024 Newsletter

Upcoming Group courses:

Level 2 (CGC Prep) Thursday mornings at 10 am beginning September 5th.

STAR PUPPY -Wednesday evenings at 6pm beginning Oct 9th. (1 opening left) ---and --- (new start date added) -Wednesday mornings at 10 am beginning Oct 30th. *** Evals required of all new clients prior to enrollment-get scheduled soon as that is what holds a spot for you. Puppy classes fill quickly.

Really hoping to get some FitDog walks on the schedule for fall. I will notify members by email.

**I do not accept dogs with aggression issues. ** I also want to remind you that we train YOU to train your dog. I've had some inquiries about dropping off dogs for training, and here at Happy Tails, all dogs are trained each week for six weeks by the owner--there are no drop-offs.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

August 2024 Newsletter

We are doing evals now for our last sessions of the summer. Can't believe how the summer flies! Group STAR PUPPY courses will start August 21st and 28th. These courses are filled unless someone cancels. Our fall sessions for this course will be announced in the September newsletter. Big "THANKS" to our previous clients for your referrals. Our business just keeps growing because of you! --Evals are required for all new clients prior to enrollment, so once you see a course advertised on the newsletter that suits your schedule, get in touch asap to make that appt--that is what holds a spot for you in the upcoming class. Puppy classes have been filling quickly.

There is a morning Level 2 starting September 9th at 10am. This is the Canine Good Citizen course. Pre-requisite: Level 1 graduate.

Tuesdays- reserved for my hard-working competition /service/titling clients.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog Course: Time slots are currently filled for those wanting to do any course privately for this last summer 6-week session. Check early September for availability. There is often a short waitlist for this course, and it is offered only through the daytime hours.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

JULY 2024 Newsletter

Happy Tails reopened from vacation on July 8th, and we are looking at our upcoming group course start dates. Our next STAR PUPPY courses will be on Wednesdays in late August: Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 8/21; and Wednesdays at 6pm beginning 8/28. Will be doing evals the beginning of August for these courses--An eval is required prior to enrollment for all new clients. (These classes are filling fast-several have already scheduled their eval.--UPDATE: Both classes have FILLED unless someone cancels out.) May possibly add another daytime puppy course in September if needed. Thank you for all your referrals-within a week of reopening, we are booked!

There will be a morning Level 2 course to start after Labor Day: Tentative --Mondays at 10 am beginning September 9th, and the next evening Level 2 will start late Sept--date to be determined. Pre-requisite: Level 1 graduate. I will notify those who asked.

Tuesdays-reserved for my hard-working competition /service/titling clients.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog Course: Time slots are currently filled for those wanting to do any courses privately for the summer sessions.

**I do not accept dogs with aggression issues. ** I also want to remind you that we train YOU to train your dog. All dogs are trained each week by the owner--no drop-offs.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

June 2024 Newsletter

Hi Everyone,

With summer approaching, and everyone looking forward to their vacations, we will not be holding any group classes at this time. We do have some puppy classes that will be wrapping up toward the end of June. Groups courses will resume at the end of August so watch the newsletters for scheduled course start dates. There will definitely be STAR PUPPY courses offered, and Level 2 and 3 will begin again in September.

We do offer private courses over the summer months, and may have some openings after the 4th of July holiday. These are the same courses offered in a group setting, only offered privately during the daytime hours. No evening time slots available. Tuesdays are still open for my competition/titling clients.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Our vacation this year is scheduled for 6/24---7/7. Happy Tails will be closed during this time period.

May 2024 Newsletter

Our summer schedule will soon go into effect-- The last group STAR Puppy courses for our spring schedule started May 1 and will wrap up mid-June. Groups will start up again late August/early September. Watch the July/August newsletter for updates on upcoming start dates for these group courses.

Over the summer we only offer private sessions during the daytime hours --no evening availability. A lot of the private time slots have already filled for late May/early June sessions, but after our 2-week break over the 4th of July, we should have new openings available in those private time slots.

Level 2 and level 3 are also group courses that will resume in the fall. Watch the August newsletter for start dates.

Hoping to get some Fit Dog Walks scheduled soon. Members will be notified by email.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Our vacation this year is scheduled for 6/24---7/7. Happy Tails will be closed during this time period.

April 2024 Newsletter

We have many courses in progress now at all levels. The next group STAR PUPPY course will be 5/1/24- a morning course at 10 am (still have openings), and an evening course at 6 pm (filled). Evals are being scheduled now for these upcoming courses. This will be the last time the group STAR Puppy course will be offered until late August after everyone gets their vacations in. Groups tend to fall apart as summer approaches so we only offer private sessions during this time period. No evening courses available over the summer, only daytime hours as time slots open.

Level 2 will be offered again in September. In the meantime, get those pups out using the good manners they learned in Level 1.

Tuesdays are reserved for competitor/specialty work:

Our rally clients are doing well—Sharan and Daisy, 2 legs for RN title, and 3rd run submitted. My puppy, Paco, is waiting on the result of 3rd run also (UPDATE: Both dogs earned their first rally title--RN). Betty and Oreo had to take a break due to surgery/recovery, but should be back in action soon. Karen is training her dog for service-Sadie is doing well retrieving dropped items, and assisting with mobility-soon to do some test runs out and about. Kathy and Nicole are learning the ropes in conformation with 2 Borzoi pups.

NEW for Level 3: For those of you interested in AKC Fit Dog, we are going to incorporate the FitDog Bronze skills into our Level 3 program--CGCA—Community Canine course. In Level 2, we introduce tricks while learning our CGC skills. In level 3, we will work on becoming fit. The Fit Dog skills will be taught during a small segment of the class, and then the handler will keep track of getting their checklist completed. The class will still focus on completing the required skills to become a community canine—it will be a combo class for those interested in obtaining titles. To obtain the titles being offered at Level 3, you will need an AKC registration number, a PALS # , or a Canine Partners # for your application process with AKC. You are welcome to this class even if you do not have a number, and are really not interested in the titling aspect in training. Teaching your dog more and more skills is what is really important, and keeping it fit is even better! Look for a class late summer/early fall.

Hoping to get some Fit Dog Walks scheduled soon. Members will be notified by email.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Our vacation this year is scheduled for 6/24---7/7. Happy Tails will be closed during this time period.

March 2024 Newsletter

Spring is just around the corner! 😊

STAR PUPPY course: Wednesdays at 6pm starting 3/13—**An eval is required prior to enrollment. (Next class offering: Wednesdays beginning 5/1 at 10 am & 6 pm.)

Level 1 for the Adult Dog Course: only offered privately, usually Thursdays, either morning or afternoon weekly appt. as time slots open.

Level 2: Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 3/20. (FILLED)

Level 3: Mondays at 7:15 pm starting 3/18 (FILLED)

Tuesdays are reserved for Rally/competition/specialty clients.

Fit Dog Walks should be starting up soon--Fit Dog club members will be notified by email of upcoming walks.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

February 2024 Newsletter

Having surgery this month so there may be a few minor changes in the schedule.

STAR PUPPY courses: Should be wrapping up 2 group classes by mid February; and another group is just getting started. More groups scheduled for March-- Wednesday evenings @ 6pm starting Mar. 13th. **EVALS are required prior to enrollment.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog is only offered privately through the day time hours. Thursdays has become the reserved day for this course. There is currently a waitlist.

Level 2-- A morning course is just getting started. The next Level 2 will be starting March 20 at 10 am. An evening course may be offered later in the spring. Reserve your spot soon.

Level 3 is starting March 18th, and it is already filled! (FILLED)

Tuesdays are reserved as a “specialty course” day for those those clients looking to put titles on their dogs, or to get ready for upcoming shows.-- Rally Novice group at 10 am. Privates in the afternoon.

More info regarding courses, prices etc. can be found on the website.

Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Please use gmail address for messaging, or call and leave a message if there is no answer. We no longer respond to facebook messaging—you will get an automated response telling you how to contact us.

January 2024 Newsletter

Happy New Year! Wow, the start of another year! There are lots of puppies starting their training this month. The STAR PUPPY courses that were announced in December newsletter filled quickly, and have or are about to begin. We are offering another evening STAR Puppy course to start early Feb.--Mondays at 6 pm beginning 2/5 (FILLED). Evals are required of all new clients before enrolling.

*Tentative Future start dates/times for STAR PUPPY Courses (bad weather can delay these dates): - Weds.at 10 am starting 3/13, and Weds. at 6pm starting 3/13.

Since I will be having carpal tunnel surgery the beginning of February, I am delaying the start of the Level 2 (Canine Good Citizen prep) course until then; however, I will be contacting those of you who requested notification to give you the start date/times and to see if you still want a spot held for you. (Pre-requisite Level 1 Graduate).

Level 3 (Community Canine prep) course will be offered early spring, mid-March. (tentatively Mondays at 7:15pm beginning 3/18). I will be sending email to those graduates who requested notification soon. Pre-requisite: Level 2 graduate or CGC titled. (Class filled.)

We still offer the Level 1 for the Adult Dog course privately; however, privates are offered only on Thursdays through the day, and there is a 4-6 week waitlist at this point. The high demand for groups once again limits private availability.

I retired from nursing a few years ago; that was my career. Dog training is what I have always done for fun. This is STILL what I do for fun, so Happy Tails will remain a part-time business for me. I know it is hard for those with adult dogs to get started here—I recommend if you get your dog as a pup, get it started while it is a pup! It is easier on everyone. 😊 I do realize some have adopted an older dog, and that is why this course is still available.

Tuesdays are reserved for my competition/title clients. Rally Novice will begin every other week starting 1/16 for those wanting to get started.

Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

December 2023 Newsletter

No new courses will start in December, but we will be wrapping up a few yet for the year, and Lots of evals scheduled already for the upcoming January classes. Wishing you a great holiday season, and a very Merry Christmas! Happy Tails will be closed December 19th through January 1st---any messages/calls left during this time will be returned when we reopen Jan 2024.

UPCOMING COURSES: (New clients need evals prior to enrollment.)

STAR PUPPY Courses start: Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 1/10 (FILLED)

Wednesdays at 6 pm beginning 1/10/24 (FILLED).

There will be another STAR PUPPY evening course offered late January , start date will be announced after the break.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog- private sessions only available through the daytime hours. (Mostly Thursdays).

Level 2 (CGC prep) There will be a morning and evening course on Mondays (10 am and 6pm late January/early Feb)--date to be set. (Pre-requisite level 1 graduate.)

Level 3 (CGCA prep) will be offered late Feb-early March.

Tuesdays dedicated to those interested in show/competition work.

*Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sundays. Open through the week days by appt.

“Facebook messages” for Happy Tails is set up to send an automated response. Facebook has not been a reliable messaging service for us so we do NOT use it for messaging. Please read the response as it tells you how to get in touch. It also directs you to the webpage where you can find all information regarding our training. The newsletter gives updates on upcoming courses being offered. I no longer respond to facebook messaging (sometimes I can’t even read what you send). Thanks-----deb

November 2023 Newsletter

Fall is here and the holidays are approaching quickly. All classes for November have started, and there will be no more added until the new year. Enjoy those holidays!

I will be announcing start dates for the January sessions in December’s newsletter. There will be a STAR PUPPY Wednesday mornings at 10 am, and a Wednesday evenings at 6 pm course offered for sure, and the evening course is getting filled already. I know there are those wanting a Level 2 so we will be looking into that as well.

The list has gotten shorter for the Level 1 Adult Dog course so those on the wait list should be hearing from me soon regarding upcoming time slot openings. Again, this course is only offered privately through the daytime hours, mostly Thursdays.

My competitors on Tuesdays are coming along nicely. Linda and Beau went all the way to the top earning a RACH title. Diane & James only need one more leg for his RE title (update--RE in December), and Fit Dog Gold which we hope to finish up by the end of the year. Sharan has earned first leg of RA title with Archie(Update--RA in December), and her Daisy only needs a few more tricks to complete the Advanced trick title (they obtained many titles this year!). Several other clients have titled this year, either virtually or at shows, and we have several clients expressing interest in joining our Tuesday lineup. My Nico has done all that I have asked for. He is five now, and with most of our goals met, is going to be doing “fun only” things. I will be starting a new puppy soon.

Looking back over the year—wow, look at all those STAR PUPPIES, CANINE GOOD CITIZENS, and ADVANCED CANINE GOOD CITIZENS! Great job everyone!

Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sundays. Open through the week days by appt.

“Facebook messages” sends an automated response since facebook has not been a reliable messaging service for us. Please read the response as it tells you how to get in touch. It also directs you to the webpage where you can find all information regarding our training. The newsletter gives updates on upcoming courses being offered. I do no longer respond to facebook messaging (sometimes I can’t even read what you send). Thanks-----deb

October 2023 Newsletter

STAR PUPPY Group Courses: Wednesday mornings at 10am beginning October 25th.

Wednesday evenings at 6pm beginning October 25th.

Evals required prior to enrollment. These will be the last group puppy courses until early January 2024. (Looking at Wednesday evenings at 6p., Wednesday mornings at 10a., probably starting 1/10/24-Evals in December.)

Course could be done privately through the daytime hours as time slots open.

We are thinking of adding a new course for new puppy owners, "So you're getting, or have gotten a Puppy---NOW WHAT?!" If we have enough interest, the course will be offered probably once a month on a Saturday morning for a one-hour session. Cost will be $25. If your puppy has proof of current vaccinations, you can bring the puppy along; or you may attend prior to getting your puppy so you can be prepared. Our syllabus includes Alpha, socializing, communicating with your pup, leash training, housebreaking, and nipping tips. If there is enough interest, we will announce dates here on the newsletter. Let me know what you think. You will need to pre-register for this class before a start date. Thanks----deb

Happy Tails does have a Facebook page; however, the messaging is automated. We often don't see the full message through Facebook, so we really try to discourage your using this method to contact us. Our Gmail account: debshappytailsdogtraining@gmail.com or 717-263-0053 (you can leave a message) are the best ways for contacting us.

September 2023 Newsletter

**Star Puppy Group Courses for September have begun. Next group courses will be: Wednesday mornings at 10am beginning Oct 25th, and Wednesday evenings at 6pm beginning Oct. 25th.. Evals are required prior to enrollment.

**Level 2 (CGC prep)-- Evening course has started for Sept.

** Level 2 (CGC prep) morning group course begins Monday September 25th at 10 am. Call or message for a spot. Pre-requisite for this course=Level 1 Graduate. If you are new to Happy Tails and have had a level 1 course, you will need to schedule an eval to enroll.

Next Level 3 -looking at October.

Tuesdays are still reserved for those involved in competition/titling.

Privates are limited to Monday or Thursdays through the day hours as spots open.

Hours: by appt only Monday-Thursday.

Closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

July/August 2023 Newsletter

Upcoming Group Courses:

STAR PUPPY: Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 9/6/23 (only 1 spot left)

Wednesdays at 6 pm beginning 9/6/23 (FILLED)

*All new clients will need an eval prior to enrollment – schedule by calling 717-263-0053. Entry is limited.

Level 2 (CGC Prep), Prerequisite, Level 1 graduate:

Wednesdays at 7:15 pm beginning 8/30/23 (FILLED)

Mondays at 10 am beginning 9/25/23

Graduates, please let me know by message or email that you want a spot held for you. I will confirm by sending you a registration form to bring with you to the first class.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog- course only available privately through the weekday, day-time hours as spots open from others graduating. Sometimes there is a waitlist for this course.

Summer Hours: by Appt only Monday - Thursday.

Closed Friday-Saturday-Sunday.

June 2023

Summer schedule: Our current group classes will be wrapping up in a few weeks (mid-late June). We will offer Group courses again late August/early September, days and evenings. Too many vacations to hold groups together over the summer. Watch the newsletter for course announcements. Private sessions are offered through the day, Monday-Thursday with no evening hours during this six-week period.

Happy Tails will be closed the last week of June and the first week of July for vacation.

Perfect time to try some new things with your dog, like swimming and hiking. Watch for hot pavements, and wear your flea/tick control.

Hoping to schedule some Fit Dog walks over the summer—members will be notified by email of upcoming events. LOTS OF NEW TITLES: Check the May newsletter for UPDATES on those working on rally/obedience titles, at shows or virtually--great job everyone!

Summer Hours: by appt only Monday-Thursday.

Closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

May 2023 Newsletter

STAR PUPPY Classes -Wednesday evenings at 6 pm beginning May 10th —(FILLED)

- Wednesday evenings at 7:15 pm beginning May 17th. (FILLED)

Level 2 (started April 27th)

These will be the last scheduled GROUP courses offered until the end of August. Too many vacations and other summer events to keep groups together.

We are planning a Level 2 course to start late August. Date will be announced in upcoming newsletters. STAR Puppy group courses will resume once school is back in session.

Over the summer we will be offering private sessions throughout the weekdays— sometimes there is a waitlist. Tuesdays will continue being reserved for those wanting competition/title work. Fridays and the weekends -closed.

Fitdog Club will be scheduling more walks, so FitDog club members will be receiving emails over the summer on upcoming walks and activities.

Happy Tails will be closed last week of June and first week of July for vacation.

Now, some exciting news from our Competitors/title classes (as of 4/26):

Sharan and Archie, a Goldendoodle, qualified on 3 runs for a Rally Novice title, 2 legs for CD, and did enough tricks for the Advanced trick dog title. UPDATE: 3rd leg --new CD title!

Diane and James, a Papillon, qualified 1st leg toward Rally Excellent title.

Linda and Beau, a Golden Retriever, are well on their way toward the RACH title, needing only 30 more Master’s level points.

Milan and Shana, a Golden Retriever, have earned two legs toward their Rally Novice title. UPDATE: 3rd leg=new RN title!

Naomi, a Junior handler, and Poppy, a Golden Retriever owned by Amy, earned two legs toward their Rally Novice title--UPDATE: 3rd leg, now a Rally Novice title!

My Millie, a Pomeranian, earned her Rally Novice title, and Nico, a toy Poodle, has his first leg toward Rally Excellent. UPDATE: 2nd leg!

Great Job everyone! Let’s see where they are by the end of the summer! 😊

April 2023 Newsletter

Upcoming Courses:

STAR PUPPY Courses will be offered the beginning of May.

*AM Class—START Date: Wednesdays 10 am. Beginning 5/10. (FILLED)

*PM Class—START Date: Wednesdays at 6 pm. Beginning 5/10 (FILLED)

Level 2 (CGC Prep) Course.

*AM Class—START Date: Thursdays 10 am. Beginning 4/27.

Level 3 (CGCA prep) Course--I have a few clients interested in a Level 3 evening course-- CGC graduates--let me know of your interest.

Tuesdays reserved for show/competition clients. Times by appt.

All new clients need evals prior to enrollment.

Graduates may message/call to hold spot in the level 2.

February/March 2023 Newsletter

Schedule of upcoming courses

(Tentative—weather could delay start date if we have any classes to make up.)

STAR PUPPY START DATES:

Wed. March 8th at 6 pm. (FILLED!!)

Wed. March 15th at 10 am. (FILLED!!)

Wed. March 29th at 7:15pm (FILLED!!)

*****NEXT TIME OFFERED: early May-Start dates will be announced in April.

NEW COURSE—Fit Dog Level 1 (must be a graduate of at least a Level 1 course)

Mon. March 6th at 10 am. (FILLED!!)

Pending-- start dates to be determined-- Level 2 (CGC prep) course (pre-requisite Level 1 graduate).

Thurs. mornings@10 am, mid-late April start date (4/27).

Monday evenings at 6 pm beginning of May (This could be a level 2 or 3 --depends on interest.) Graduates, let me know what you're interested in.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog course is only offered privately through the week day hours as time slots open. There is a waitlist.

All new clients will require an eval to see if your dog can go in a group setting (or if it is ready for an advanced level), and to evaluate your goals.

January 2023 Newsletter

Happy New Year! Happy Tails is open, and the new floor is wonderful!

Group Courses being offered to start in January:

STAR PUPPY –Wednesday mornings at 10am beginning 1/11, and Wednesday evenings at 6 pm beginning 1/18 (evening course filled). Evals required. Update: Wednesdays mornings at 10 am beginning March 15th, or Wednesday evenings at 6:00 pm (filled) beginning March 8th.

LEVEL 3 (CGCA prep)- Thursday mornings at 10am beginning 1/26. (Pre-requisites-see course description on webpage).

Either a Level 2 or Level 3 evening course will be announced soon for mid March start depending on demand. (Most likely Mondays).

AKC has announced a new program, and you can achieve titles for your fitness plan/accomplishments. There are 3 levels of AKC fitness titles—Bronze, Silver, and Gold. There are 6 categories in each level, and each level has a minimum number of points that must be earned from at least 2 categories. More details can be found in the participants Guide on the AKC Fit Dog site. One category that you can choose is to complete an AKC Fit Dog Course. (Happy Tails is an AKC Fit Dog Club.) Happy Tails will begin offering a Level 1 FitDog course with 6 weekly one-hour fitness lessons taught by an approved AKC FitDog instructor. (Will post as soon as start date is set.) The first course will be offered in a morning session. Pre-requisite: Level 1 Obedience graduate. Another way to gain points is by doing group walks with a fit dog club. We recently had our first walk, which helped complete the points required for a Bronze title for some of our participants. I think this will be a fun way to improve the health and fitness of both dogs and handlers.

December 2022 Newsletter

Hi! Happy Tails is closed from December 8 through the end of the year for remodeling. And thankfully, I guess, this is when my office computer decided to die too. The floor is in the process of being replaced with epoxy by CS Stoneworks, LLC, but we are still in the process of planning our calendar for the new year. Our tentative plan is:

STAR PUPPY- *A morning course will begin on Wednesdays at 10 am starting January 11th.

*An evening course to begin on Wednesdays at 6 pm starting January 18th.

EVALS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS.

Level 2 (CGC PREP) Course – Mondays at 10am beginning January 16th. Call or message to enroll. Pre-requisite: graduate of Level 1. There are plans for an evening Level 2 course in late Feb.

Level 3 (Advanced CCC) Course- Thursdays at 10 am beginning January 26th. Pre-requisite: CCC or Level 2 Graduate). If interested in an evening level 3 course, please let me know of your interest so we can get one scheduled.

Happy Tails is a Fitdog Club, and I am taking courses to become a Fitdog trainer. (Level 1 complete and approved.) More info to come-- Check AKC site regarding new Fitdog titles to be offered in 2023.

In general, Happy Tails is open by appointment. Mondays and Wednesdays are group course days. Tuesdays are reserved for our show/competitor clients, and maybe fitdog courses. Thursdays—morning, groups/privates, and afternoon, privates. Fridays, usually closed. Normally no courses are offered between 3pm and 6 pm any day. Weekends closed except for special events.

The Level 1 for the Adult Dog course is available on a very limited basis, and only through the weekday--daytime hours, as schedule permits.

My office computer is in the repair shop and the diagnosis is grave—Hopefully, a new one will be up and running soon. In the meantime, if I haven’t responded to any emails or messages from you, I may not have gotten them. Please try again—the phone 717-263-0053 may be the best option right now-and feel free to leave a message.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and the best in the new year!

November Newsletter 2022

Hi! We have lots of graduates this fall! And, we still have a few more classes to finish so there will be more graduates with their STAR PUPPIES and Canine Good Citizens announced soon. As these current courses wrap up, we will not be offering group courses again until January—so watch for the December newsletter for the next group course announcements.

We are hoping to get new epoxy flooring in the training center over the holiday break.

AKC has announced a program for new AKC titles starting in January—3 levels of FitDog -bronze, silver, and gold. Happy Tails is a FitDog club, so watch for details. We already offer ways to put titles on your dog with the Canine Good Citizen program, Rally courses with virtual opportunities, traditional obedience with virtual opportunities, and trick dog testing, so this will be next on the horizon.

Often, I have clients that are dog breeders. I love those who always want to learn more and constantly strive to improve on their breeding practices. I have several clients that understand the importance of testing for health issues BEFORE breeding by getting the parents CLEARED with genetic testing, X-rays, and other studies. They understand, or want to learn more of the importance of structure, and gait, studying pedigrees, always striving to improve their breeding stock. They realize that not every dog should produce. They not only care for the puppies—they LOVE their puppies—it almost breaks their heart to let their puppies go. I love these breeders for the dedication to their dogs and their breed—they are essential to the survival of the breeds. They are truly responsible breeders! While some intertwine the term “puppy mill” and the word “breeder” (and get an undesirable image, which often it is), there are definitely two types of breeders—don’t mix them up. Puppy mills: do they really want the breed to survive? Do they really love the breed, or just love the fact that YOU love to buy the breed? Do they keep producing puppies with defects and continue to breed the parents? This is how the term “breeder” gets a bad rap! Just because a kennel/ breeder has a license and follows state rules does not mean the breeding practices are correct! Every puppy is adorable, but breeders (purebred or mixes) strive to make every intentional breeding the best one yet!

***Happy Tails is closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays except for special events.

October Newsletter 2022

Group courses filled quickly, and you will soon be seeing new graduates at the STAR PUPPY Level and at Level 2 (CGC prep course). We should be adding some new Canine Good Citizens soon. The next STAR PUPPY course will begin Oct.12, and it is filled. The October group courses will be the last groups for the year since they will wrap up with the holiday season approaching quickly. We are hoping to do some remodeling over the holiday season. We will start groups again in January, so watch the newsletter for details/start dates. Puppy courses always fill quickly, and new clients require an evaluation prior to enrollment.

The next Level 2 (CGC) and Level 3 (CGCA) courses will be offered after the start of the new year.

Private course work (only through the daytime hours) has limited availability.

In our competition classes, we have Sharan with her Goldendoodle, Archie, who earned his BN-V title, now working toward his CD; Diane with her Papillon, James, who earned his RA title, also working toward his CD; and Linda and Beau, a Golden retriever, is working toward his RACH title- got his 20 triple Qs-just needs a few more masters points. Pam with her Standard Poodle, Shay, is just getting started with her Rally training and doing well. And Kristin is just getting started with her standard poodle, Mia.

AKC has announced 3 new titles for 2023---Bronze, Silver, and Gold Fitdog. Happy Tails is already a Fitdog Club so we are looking at some new things for 2023 to assist you with those titles.

I am now recovering from hand surgery---groomed toooooo many dogs over the years, and it caught up with me. I won’t be doing much computer work for the next few weeks, so it may be best to call.

***Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday except for special events.

Sept. 2022 Newsletter

Fall is coming, and group courses are starting back up. We have STAR Puppy courses either already started or to start very soon. Also, we have an am and a pm Level 2 course starting. The evening course is full, and 1 opening is left in the morning class. Level 3 will be offered early 2023, if enough interest-let me know if you would like to be notified of start date. There will probably be one more session of STAR PUPPY offered mid/late October (am and pm times), but date is not set yet. I know the evening course will be on Wed. evenings and will start after the current sessions wrap up. New clients need evals prior to enrollment. (Edit 9/26: STAR PUPPY course to start 10/12 @7pm, is filled.)

With groups starting back up, this limits even more the availability for privates, so the Level 1 for the Adult Dog course (which has been offered privately and on a waitlist) will not be available until after the new year. I know it is difficult to get started here once your dog is considered an adult-- that is why it is best to get those puppies in one of the many STAR PUPPY group courses we offer through the year. Once your dog is considered an adult, and has not had any formal training, we can only offer private sessions through the daytime hours. This is for everyone’s safety and better individualized instruction. (For those of you with much older dogs that have had absolutely no training to this point in its life—while you can teach an old dog new tricks, one six-week course may not change a behavior that has been established for years—for example, 8 years of an established behavior isn’t going to change overnight.)

Tuesdays through the day are still reserved for show clients working on titles. FYI: Chambersburg Area Kennel Club is holding its show at the Shippensburg Fairgrounds on Oct. 1 & 2 this year. There will be 4 Rally Trials. Entries close: Wed 9/14. You won’t find an AKC show any closer.

***Happy Tails is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday except for special events.

August Newsletter

Hi Everyone!

While our group courses have been on hold for the summer with vacationing, several clients are still working hard on getting legs on titles, or have completed the requirements for the titles they are working on. Linda with Beau, a Golden Retriever, are doing just great in rally—working on his RACH title (got his RM and RAE), and Beau is only a 2-year old; Diane and James, a Papillon, got his first RA leg and is doing very well off-lead; and Sharan with Archie, a Goldendoodle, got his first leg toward his BN (and has 2 more videoed runs to submit), and is also looking to test for therapy dog. I have had several clients practicing for their own specialty club’s shows. It has been a fun summer! I even had some time for my own crew-- Nico earned three new titles and became a registered/certified therapy dog. Also, I got the opportunity to have two of my guys do a performance of obedience/tricks based on Prov. 3:5-6 and Romans 12:1-2 for children’s church—the kids were great, and the dogs did everything I could ask for. It’s been their first time “out” since Covid shut everything down. And…my puppy, Millie, finally got started in her training.

Now, planning our fall schedule (some Sept. start dates listed in July newsletter below). With the start of group classes again, private times will become even more limited. Just a warning- while prices will remain the same for the next already scheduled (and mostly filled) sessions, some courses may be going up in the near future. Will be posting any changes in next newsletter.

Enjoy the rest of your summer—where does the time, especially summertime, go?

July 2022 Newsletter

Wow, the summer is just flying by. Some of our “show” clients are doing well at shows, and virtually too—that is a lot of what is happening at Happy Tails the months of July/August, privates, testings/videos, and evals. I did work with my dog, Nico, on a few more titles while on the break -- Millie’s next.

Here’s the Plan for Group classes:

(Evals are required for all NEW clients-- Graduates of Happy Tails can call or message for a spot to be held for you in the Level 2 course-make sure you get confirmation back that I got your message.)

STAR PUPPY (6 weeks) -- Evening course to start Wednesdays at 7 pm beginning 8/31. Eval (by appt.) required prior to enrollment. (filled)

STAR PUPPY (6 weeks) --Morning course to start Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 9/14. Eval (by appt.) required prior to enrollment.

Level 2 (CGC Prep course) starting Mondays—there will be a 7 pm course beginning Sept. 12 (filled), and a 10 am course beginning Sept 26th. (Prerequisite: Level 1 graduate.)

Level 3 will be offered in the late fall schedule.

“Privates” (including Level 1 for adult dog course) are still limited to weekday hours (no evening hours), with a wait list. (As a current client completes a course, that spot opens for the next on the list.) Tuesdays are reserved for “show” clients to practice/test by appt.

Closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays unless holding special events.

June 2022 (early summer) Newsletter

Schools are letting out for the summer, and vacations are starting!

Our spring group courses will be wrapping up shortly, so we will be announcing more STAR PUPPIES and Canine Good Citizens soon.

Since it is hard to keep groups together with everyone’s vacation schedules, we will only be offering private courses through the first half of the summer. The next start dates for “group” courses (STAR PUPPY, Level 2, and Level 3) will be announced in the July newsletter with start dates expected late July, early August. STAR PUPPY evals will begin soon after July 4th holiday.

Private courses, as always, are only offered during the week days (Mon.-Thurs.) between 9am and 2pm as openings become available when clients graduate. Time slots are limited, and there is currently a wait list of 3-4 weeks for a start time.

To our advanced obedience clients: we can schedule time during this break in the schedule for the videoing your runs if you are interested in submitting to AKC for judging for titles.

This is a great time of year for walking your pup, but watch those paws on the hot pavement.

May 2022 Newsletter/ Looking at the Summer Schedule—

With summer approaching, Group courses are not offered as frequently since it is hard to keep groups together with everyone’s vacation schedules.

We just started a group STAR PUPPY course on 4/27 at 7 pm which will run for 6 weeks. Dates have not been set yet for the next STAR PUPPY courses, but check back in a few weeks after these current sessions are further along--we may still offer a morning course if enough interest. The next evening group STAR PUPPY course will most likely be after July 4, could be either Monday or Wednesday evenings.

There are two Level 2 courses starting May 2. The morning class is full, and there is only one opening left in the evening class. This is the CGC prep course---pre-requisite is Level 1. Level 2 will be offered again in late summer-start dates will be announced in the next newsletter.

Level 3 (Community Canine) will be scheduled in the fall-start date will be announced later in the summer.

ADVANCED OBEDIENCE **We still have clients working either individually or in small groups for their own personal goals for competition/titles/therapy/better companion dog, which can continue as desired by appointment. Courses can also be set up when ready to video--just let me know. We will try to help some of you get your titles this summer.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog is offered privately through the weekdays between the hours of 9 am and 2pm as time slots open through the summer. Limited availability.

We are closed Fridays and weekends, except for special events.

Get out there and enjoy your dogs on these beautiful spring days!

Mid-March Newsletter/Schedule 2022

The March STAR PUPPY courses filled and have already started. Next start dates will be late APRIL/early MAY-(Wednesday evenings course at 7 p.m. starting 4/27, and a Wednesday mornings course at 10 a.m. starting 5/11). Evals required prior to enrollment.

Sorry for the change in plans, but the Level 2 course starting Monday evenings at 7 p.m. will begin May 2. There will also be a Monday course at 10 a.m. beginning 5/2. *This is the CGC prep course. Level 1 Graduates that are interested in this course, please message or call to hold your spot. New clients must schedule an eval prior to enrollment.

NEW to our Level 3 graduates---looking at starting a class for those interested in perfecting their dog's obedience skills to the competition level -will be a morning class Tuesdays at 10 a.m. beginning April 19. Working at the Beginner Novice (BN), and Novice, companion dog (CD) level to prepare you and your dog for the skills necessary to gain a title either at shows, or virtually. Limited entry--let me know you are interested to hold your spot.

Mid-Feb 2022 Newsletter/schedule of start dates.

You will be seeing lots of graduates from our new year classes! We are starting more STAR PUPPY courses in Feb. (Mondays at 7pm beginning 2/21; filled) and a Level 3 class (Tuesdays at 10 am beginning 2/22; also filled). We are doing evals now for our March start dates for STAR PUPPY – (courses starting on Mondays at 10am beginning 3/14, and Wednesday evenings at 7 pm beginning 3/16). Get your eval scheduled soon as these classes are also filling fast.

Our next Level 2/CGC prep courses will be in April (*tentative*- Monday evenings at 7pm, 4/11, and there could possibly be a morning class too). Get signed up now by messaging me or calling for a spot to be held for you. If you are a new client, an eval must be scheduled to determine whether you and your dog meet the requirements for this class.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog is still on a wait list. We are getting dogs scheduled and started—there is just limited availability since this course is offered only through weekdays as clients graduate—there is no evening availability for this course.

Sorry, The New Year’s Newsletter has disappeared from the webpage that had start dates listed, but all those courses are either now complete or nearing completion. You will begin to see some of our graduates posted on the photos page or the facebook page.

If there is any course you have an interest in that doesn’t have a start date listed, let me know—that is how I schedule, according to the demand. Thanks------deb

Happy Tails Winter Schedule 21-22

HAPPY TAILS CLOSED 12/18 THROUGH 1/3/22

(Open 12/27-28-29 for Already-scheduled Eval Appts. Only.)

*Any messages or calls will be returned after 1/3/22.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

STAR PUPPY- Wednesday evenings at 7 pm beginning January 12th (class filled).

. Monday mornings at 10 am beginning January 17th.

Wednesday evenings at 5:30pm, Jan 26th. (class filled).

Get your eval scheduled (which is required for enrolling) for these upcoming courses.

There will be more STAR PUPPY courses for the winter schedule with start dates in February and March. -will post when confirmed. (tentative, Mondays at 7pm 2/21)

LEVEL 2-CGC PREP- Will have a MID-LATE February start date. Let me know if you would like notified or if you have an interest in this course. (Must be a Level 1 graduate as a pre-requisite. No eval necessary for returning clients).

LEVEL 3 (CGCA PREP)- DAYTIME COURSE- Again, let me know of your interest so you will be notified.

*No private sessions available during evening hours- groups only.

November-December Newsletter 2021

We would like to thank everyone who made 2021 such a successful year! We have had so many graduate from the STAR PUPPY course! Many of those graduates then went on to become canine good citizen representatives from our Level 2 Course. Several continued with training, having their best friend become a Community Canine, or a Novice trick dog after graduating from the Level 3 Course. But, it doesn’t stop there; we have had clients wishing to continue, and so they took on Rally—these participants could sent their videos to AKC for judging to gain RN, RI, or RA titles virtually. Our recent Obstacles Course had many participants when we offered the course as come-to-one or come-to-all sessions for 4 weeks. In fact, it was filled and we added a third time slot. So again, thank you for your support!

Our schedule for the year 2021 is winding down with our last classes wrapping up by Dec. 17th---no new classes will start now until 2022. Happy Tails will be closed the last 2 weeks in December. We will be posting our winter schedule soon (next start date for STAR PUPPY, Weds at 7 pm 1/12/22). Have a great Thanksgiving! -------deb

October 24, 2021

The “OBSTACLES” Course

Some of you may remember our Fun Fridays, or Super Saturdays. We would really like to get back to some of that again, offering our clients some fun events/activities to do as graduates of Happy Tails.

So, we have decided to introduce our “obstacles” course (which is advertised on the webpage as a 4-week course) as a “come to one, or come to all” session on a trial basis. This will be for Levels 2 and up, as a prerequisite. We are going to set up the obstacles on the first and third Fridays of November and December. If you come to all 4 sessions, you will have completed the obstacles course. If you choose to come to only 1 session, you and your dog will experience some of what the course offers, but it is always a good bonding/teamwork experience for you and your dog. We will accept Three (3) persons who pre-register for each of the Friday sessions. Handler will rotate their dogs through the 3 stations from 11 am until 12 noon. We are going to keep everything set up for the next grouping to use from 2-3 pm. Every Friday date will offer new obstacles, some of which are agility equipment, and some items that are used in the ATT test. If interested, let me know what spot/spots to reserve for you. Come to one or all. Cost is $25 for each session. Thanks-----deb Spots have been filled for all four sessions in each time slot. Thanks for your great response!

Example of week one: Station 1- Materials checklist, Exposure to some items that may be used on temperament test. Station 2- Jumps: High, bar, long, tire. Station 3- dogwalk, barrel, wobble board, low teeter.

Stations are different each hourly session.

FALL NEWS 2021

These are some of the Upcoming Courses Available at Happy Tails Dog

Training, LLC. this Fall 2021.

New clients: Must have an eval scheduled/completed to register for classes.

Happy Tails clients/graduates: If you are interested, please let me know to put you on the list.

STAR PUPPY COURSE

****Monday mornings at 10 am beginning 9/13.

****Wednesday evenings at 7 pm beginning 9/15 (full).

****NEXT STAR PUPPY COURSES-- start dates below.

Doing required evals now for the next set of STAR PUPPY courses that will start late October/early November— spots filling fast. (Wednesday evenings at 7 pm starting 10/27, Monday mornings at 10 am starting Nov. 1, and a 5:30 pm class on Wednesdays 10/27 also.) These will be the last STAR PUPPY courses offered this calendar year. New START DATES for 2022 will be posted in December newsletter.

LEVEL 3 (Community Canine) Prerequisite: CGC or CGC ready.

****Mondays at 2 pm beginning 9/13

OBSTACLES COURSE- (4 weeks) Prerequisite: Level 2

**Watch for upcoming news about this course. Filled

LEVEL 2 (Canine Good citizen) Prerequisite: Level 1

**** Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 10/13. (filled)

**** Monday evenings at 7 pm. starting 10/11. (filled)

RALLY NOVICE COURSE- Pre-requisite: Level 2 and up. Starting Mondays at 2pm beginning November 15th. (filled)

PRIVATES = very limited--waiting list.

Thanks-would love to see you and your pup!

----deb

June 2021 Newsletter

Hi Everyone!

Thanks for a successful 1st half of the 2021 year! We have had many students graduate from all levels of training, many new Canine Good Citizens, and even several students getting rally titles on their dogs. Great job everyone!

Happy Tails will be open on a VERY limited basis from mid June to mid July. We will only be finishing out current students’ lessons, and possibly doing a few evals, but will not be starting any new clients until mid July, and groups will resume at the end of July. Courses and dates will be announced after the 4th of July holiday. Sorry for the inconvenience, but enjoy your vacations and the nice weather. Watch for the details of course start dates on this link.

March 2021 Newsletter.

Current Group classes are filled and in progress, or starting very soon:

STAR PUPPY Monday evenings at 7 pm. (3/15)

STAR PUPPY Wednesday evenings at 5:30 pm (3/10)

STAR PUPPY Wednesday mornings at 10 am. 3/17)

Novice Rally Course Saturdays at 0900. (3/27)

We would like to start a Level 2 morning class in early April. If interested, let me know as that list is filling. Must be a level 1 graduate to enroll. Also I have had a request for the obstacle course, so if anyone is interested, we may get that rolling too.

Previous Students: if you desire additional courses, please send me a message. Often I am taking names and will schedule the course when there is enough interest. That is how the advanced classes are planned. Many times the courses are filled in advance and not advertised.

We will be doing evals after Easter for the next STAR Puppy courses that will begin in early May. Dates and times will be announced soon. Evals are required prior to enrollment. The STAR Puppy course is also available privately through the daytime hours.

Level 1 for the Adult Dog has a very limited availability. First, it is only offered privately through the day (weekdays) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Often there is a wait period until other clients graduate and their spot (time slot) opens. I realize this can be an inconvenience for some as they work through the day, but our evening hours are dedicated to our group classes: STAR puppy and advanced level classes for previous clients. Currently, we are running about a 2-4 week wait period unless you need a very specific time, and then it could be longer if that time just recently filled. An eval will be scheduled closer to when time slots look to becoming available to assess your dog. When time slots for level 1 are filled, we can add your name to our call list. We do not take dogs with aggression issues.

In general-- get those puppies started with their training early—don’t wait until bad habits develop, making behaviors harder to change. Teach them right from the start J.

January 2021

Happy New Year! We have lots of group classes starting in January for all three levels of obedience. Privates are available weekdays between the hours of 8 am to 2 pm. Also, AKC has extended the virtual rally pilot program until the end of this year, so we will be looking at setting up courses again for those interested in obtaining a rally novice or rally intermediate title, probably late Feb/March timeframe for novice, and maybe, warmer weather for intermediate. We had several titlists during our 2020 summer/fall events. Gracie, pictured below, will be working on hers.

*STAR PUPPY Course: Tuesday mornings at 11 am beginning 1/12---------Wednesday evenings at 5:30 pm, and a 7 pm (almost full) class beginning 1/13. **EVALS REQUIRED PRIOR TO ENROLLMENT.

*Level 2 Course (CGC Prep) Mondays at 5:30 p.m. beginning 1/18 (FULL)

*Level 3 Course (Community Canine prep) Wednesdays at 10 am beginning 1/20 Prerequisite –graduate of previous levels

*PRIVATE courses available Mon through Thurs. between the hours of 8 am- and 2 pm.

CALL 717-263-0053 to schedule an eval or to hold your spot in the higher levels 2/3. If messaging, DO NOT use facebook messaging; please use the gmail or email account. Facebook is not allowing me to read or respond to messages on the business account for some reason.

Thanks for all of your support and referrals. We are looking forward to a great year!

-----deb

November Newsletter 2020

Thanks everyone for all of your referrals. Even after being closed this spring for the stay-at-home orders, we have bounced back with lots of people training their dogs and puppies, and that is due to my clients spreading the word about Happy Tails. So again, I Thank You!

Since dog shows are limited now, the AKC announced a pilot program this summer to obtain your Novice and Intermediate Rally titles. Happy Tails hosted some events over a two month period, and we now have some new titlists—Dana with two of her GSPs, Cookie and Effie; Diane with her Papillon, James; Tom with his Poodle, Jasmine; and me with Nico (Poodle) and Yogi (Pom). They can now add the suffix RN after their names. Great job everyone!

Many clients have obtained their STAR Puppy awards, Canine Good Citizen and Community Canine titles, as well as some Novice Trick Dog titles. Lots of successful trainers!

We do have a Facebook page on which I often post pictures from graduations, etc. If you do need to message me, please use our google email account right now. Our Facebook page has been giving us a lot of difficulty lately. First, I couldn’t see my messages; now I can’t respond to them. Hopefully this will be a short-lived problem, but gmail is your best bet, or leave a message at 717-263-0053.

We just started our last group courses for the year 2020. We will announce our 2021 schedule in a few weeks. Privates are still available through the day but on a very limited basis as most time slots are booked. Happy Tails will be closed the last two weeks of December.

I wish you a very happy and blessed holiday season—It’s coming fast!--------deb

July 2020 Newsletter

Hi! After a lot longer than I think anyone ever expected, we are training again and are having nice groups of graduates. Our distancing between dogs has always been 2 feet-- we’ve increased our distancing to 6 feet to abide by the guidelines. Since dog shows/trials are very, very limited, AKC has put together some ways to obtain titles virtually at the Rally Novice and Rally Intermediate levels.

Nico and I entered our first virtual rally event by setting up one of the predetermined AKC courses, videotaping our run, and sending to AKC, who will assign a judge to view and score it. A passing score obtains a leg toward a rally novice title. Nico has one leg already from before the pandemic where he placed 1st with a score of 100 in competition. There is no competition during this virtual run, and the run is not timed; however, it does allow us to keep working on our goals. Here is the link to the video I did with Nico: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cUrWMUO218

Do any of my rally students have an interest in obtaining a title this way? If so, send me a message—I’m thinking about setting up a course for Saturday sessions (with a different course each week). You would schedule a time. Cost is $20 for my clients for 3 run-throughs, then 2-3 videoed runs (which would be sent to you) to send to AKC with your entry form, the link to the youtube file of video, and $28 Paypal payment to AKC- AKC does the rest. You do have to have an AKC registration number or a PALS/Canine Partners number to participate.

Is there any interest in a rally course first for those of you who want to learn more about the sport of rally? I have heard interest from some of you already. Let me know!

I definitely have mixed feelings about obtaining titles this way because I always hear “my dog does it at home.” Sure, everyone’s dog can do it at home. Well, now is your chance to prove it, in the privacy of your own home training center. And you can practice the course before your run. Shows have lots of distraction with the thrill of competition and the possibility of placement ribbons. You never know the course until you get to the show-you don’t get to practice the course with your dog either, so the dog has to be ready for anything!

This virtual event is a way is to obtain a title only, which is ultimately everyone’s goal. The thrill of the competition is not there, but rally is often just between you and your dog anyway. AKC is accepting videos until the end of the year for this pilot program. Let me know if you have any interest. Thanks----deb

April 2020 newsletter

Hi Everyone, WOW! Looks like we are in for a few rough weeks, but stay safe! Happy Tails is closed due to the stay-at-home orders issued by the governor. So, look on the bright side, your dog is extremely happy you're home! What better time to train some tricks and basic manners. For those of you that have puppies, please keep up the socialization. I have some tips listed below to help you with some ideas.

Socializing your puppy (even with stay-at-home orders)

Puppies need socialization during their development? What can I do now?

Continue to introduce your puppy to new surfaces, new sights, and new sounds, both indoors, and outdoors. The more your pup safely discovers the world, the more confidence, and social skills he will develop.

Stimulate your pup, but don’t overwhelm him. Create positive experiences/interactions. Don’t force your puppy-watch for signs of fear and intervene when necessary. Give your puppy the space he needs to feel comfortable. Don’t “flood” you puppy with something he’s afraid of in hopes that he gets used to it. Expose your puppy to what scares him in a controlled, thoughtful way-- Puppy will take his cues from you, and yourbehavior has an influence. Have him learn to associate that a “good” thing happens when he sees his “fear” by using treats or his favorite toy.

Use your imagination and come up with new things. Here are some examples:

New surfaces-different types of flooring (carpet, shiny floors), steps, grass, concrete, tarps, metal grates, tin foil, snow, rain, gravel, plastic bubble wrap (supervised), a puddle, sand, straw, mud, wooden decking.

New sights- other animals (squirrel, rabbit, cats, birds), bicycles, delivery person, motorcyclist, passing cars, balloons (supervised), brooms, and mops, vacuum, mirrors, umbrella, milk jugs, strollers or push carts/dollies, remote control toys & other children’s toys (riding toys, push toys, tents, tunnels, streamers), garden hose, grooming tools, sit in the car-even if you don’t go anywhere. Dress in a rain coat, wear a hat, carry a bag, push a wheelbarrow or trash can, crutches, walker, or wheelchair.

New sounds-Applause, blender or mixer, different ring tones on your phone, dishwasher, doorbell, bike horns, dryer buzzer, zipper, toilet flushing, milk jug filled with pennies, or clothespins, sirens, thunder, lawn mower, toilet flushing, TV/radio.

New people will be more difficult at this time, but use delivery people, mailmen, and family. Even if they don’t touch the dog, the dog’s behavior can be influenced by you. Be happy to see these people, and their movements-use your “cheery” voice.

Also ----Handle your dog’s paws, ears and other body parts. Brush your puppy. Massage, and be able to rub all over your puppy.

Hopefully, we will back up and running soon. If I can help you with anything, just call or message me. ----------deb

January Newsletter 2020

Hi everyone, and Happy New Year 2020! 2019 was a very good year at Happy Tails—lots of new students for sure with many STAR puppies, newly titled Canine Good Citizens, and trick dogs. Several clients even went into rally completion. Great job everyone! Biggest improvement here at Happy Tails was a newly paved parking lot which means no more mud. J

For 2020, we are hoping to add classes that will accommodate your needs, so let us know what interests you. The AKC added a new temperament test for which you can obtain a title. We have had some of the test items already interspersed into our curriculum, but we also have added some new things. I have been approved to test for the ATT title, but it does have to be performed at an AKC event. You can read more about it at the AKC site. We will be holding a CGC/CGCA testing in late February.-Several of you should be ready to test, so hope to see you soon.

Wishing you the best in the New Year! Happy Heeling----deb

June 2019 Newsletter

Hi everyone,

It has been a very busy season of training, again, thanks to all my students passing along their recommendations. I do appreciate all your support. I must say I have made so many great friends through Happy Tails!

AKC has accepted “Happy Tails” as an AKC FIT DOG CLUB. As a graduate, you are considered a member of Club Happy Tails. Feel free to contact me for details or go to AKC website for more info. We will be scheduling walks as part of the program. Watch for details. I look for this program to expand in time.

Ellie, our IG, has been doing therapy work at Cumberland Valley Christian School. She now is registered, certified, and titled—and making a difference in people’s lives. So many of you have expressed an interest in therapy work. If you have questions, I can steer you to the testing sources for your dog to become one too!

Now, once again I seem to be stuck on this subject, but when considering getting a dog: What are your expectations? Do you want a purebred where there is somewhat of a guarantee of breed characteristics? Do you want to take a chance on a mix of breeds or a rescue? One thing I have definitely noticed lately is the number of people coming with a “lab mix.” These lab mixes are most always mixed with pitbull. In fact, recently one of these lab mixes, I am sure was a purebred bluenose pittie. These owners were totally surprised when I mentioned “pitbull” –they believed what they were told, even though there were no lab characteristics evident at all. Not that I am discouraging pitbulls, but there is quite a difference between a lab and a pitbull. One is a sporting breed, the other a terrier. I can’t say it enough, DO YOUR RESEARCH! For example: my first search showed Terriers are “bred to be feisty, and ready to take on the world.” Sporting breeds are “naturally active and alert, and make likeable well rounded companions”—probably why Labs and Goldens have ranked so high in popularity over the years. I am really hoping the shelters are being honest with people because some homeowners’ insurances won’t even provide coverage to someone owning what they consider to be a “dangerous breed.” Some people are not matched well with certain dogs— you have to be as strong willed as the dog, and definitely smarter. Some breeds are great for a first time dog owner, some aren’t. I get many inquiries regarding aggression, and I am really surprised at the number of owners who are willing to live 10-15 years with an aggressive animal. And, this goes for some little dog owners too. There is so much risk and liability involved. There are a lot of really nice dogs that need homes! Be responsible right from the start--Research your breed, Socialize, and Train whatever dog you choose -- Make those 10-15 years a pleasurable experience!

Training Tip of the Month: Reward good behavior-give feedback to your dog!

Watch for our scheduled walks, and if you have any ideas where to go on some fun ones, let me know. We have done the rails to trails, but looking at other locations of about a mile for distance. Thanks-----deb

January 2019 Newsletter

To see the January 2019 newsletter, please click the link below:

https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxkZWJzaGFwcHl0YWlsc2RvZ3RyYWluZXJ8Z3g6YjU1OTYwNzE1NjM3NTky

Sept/Oct 2018 Newsletter

Hi All,

Despite all the rain this summer, we have had a very busy and successful training season, and, sorry, I even missed my 2nd, and 3rd quarter newsletters. (My vision difficulties may have contributed to this lapse as well, but all is corrected, and 20/20 is fantastic!!) There has been a lot of interest in the new LEVEL 3 course, and as always, the STAR PUPPY course is in great demand. And, we can only thank you, our graduates, for your referrals that account for our continued growth. I am also very happy with the students we have, so very willing to learn, and very compatible with the puppy they have chosen. Truly responsible owners teaching their pups to be fine, well- mannered canine ambassadors! We are really trying to schedule more events for Club Happy Tails. We always have such a fun time getting together with well-trained dogs! Watch the calendar or Facebook for announcements. We love seeing and hearing from our graduates!

TRAINING TIP: Choose the right puppy for you!

Picking your Puppy

With today’s technology, in this world of mass information, many people are more educated on how to purchase a puppy, which is great, but many puppies are still bought on impulse. And, I still hear a distinct difference when talking with these callers. For example: I have heard, “This 5-month old cattle dog puppy is just crazy! Oh, I don’t have time for 6 Mondays in a row, I work all week, and the kids are involved in everything.” Or, I have heard, “I have a border collie puppy who I want to teach some obedience so she will be ready for disk dog/Frisbee work when she gets a little older.” Which one do you think did their research before getting a puppy? And, which one do you think came to classes? I always feel so sorry for that puppy that is now not-so-cute and becoming unwanted.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

So many breeds of dogs--why? Because we all have different wants and needs. Most dogs were originally bred for a purpose-to help man with something. Maybe with hunting or guarding. Or maybe just to sit by someone’s side to be a companion. No matter the chore, temperament for this particular chore was of utmost importance. Breeders who are truly devoted to their breed try to preserve the breed’s purpose and temperament when looking at what stock to use for breeding. Why do you think it is so important to investigate and do research into the breed you may be interested in adding to your family, for often 10-15 years? Choose the breed that fits your lifestyle! Check out the activity level, the breed’s tendencies, grooming requirements, size, and trainability. Can you live with that? Also, with so many mixes today, it still pays to do your research. Mixed breeds will not always obtain just the good qualities of their parents. For example, some poodle mixes may shed depending on the breed it is mixed with. And, sometimes, oops-you just might double up on the bad qualities of both breeds. Heredity plays a major role in your dog’s makeup! All puppies are cute, and often sell themselves, but do your research. Recognize there is a commitment--is your home right for any dog? Be prepared for that little bundle of joy--so it is just that----a joy for BOTH you and the puppy!

Happy Heeling,

Deb

January 2018 newsletter

Hi everyone!

Wow, I can’t believe we are already into a new year! Thanks to all students and graduates who have helped make Happy Tails a success with many STAR puppies and Canine Good citizens in 2017, and we are off to a good start for this year, too. We truly enjoy working with you and your pup!

New group sessions started in January with some really neat dogs and handlers. I am thrilled that we have a couple of really talented junior handlers-- I love to see kids enthused about training. We are also doing a new, revised Level 3 course. This course blends CGCA, rally, obstacles, and novice trick dog exercises, and your dog must have its CGC to enroll—it has really been fun, and I hope all participants are enjoying it as much as I am. Enrollment in group classes is limited, and we are quickly filling our puppy classes for February. Call 717-263-0053 for your evaluation now if you are interested in joining us.

Training Tip: Find what really motivates your dog? What is his high value reward? Your job as a trainer is to find out what your dog is willing to work for and influence his decision. Make sure your dog sees his efforts as worthwhile. Be generous, and make rewards obtainable. Don’t give up on rewards too quickly and PRAISE often. Remember, this is your BEST friend!

Wishing you a Happy and Blessed New Year!

Happy Heeling,

Deb

September 2017 Newsletter

Our clientele just keeps growing and growing, mostly from the support of our graduates spreading the word. Thank you so much!

Just a reminder that we do have a Facebook page; just go to the link on this site. I am sorry that I don’t post ALL pictures of ALL graduates, but I do get permission from some to do so, and sometimes, I just forget my camera, for which I apologize.

I recently retired from my other life as a nurse, making more daytime hours available for training; plus it opens up another evening for group classes. I am hoping to start up our Refresher Fridays again soon. I missed last quarter due to some complications of my Lymes, but things are getting back to normal.

Training Tip: What is oppositional reflex?

A lot of owners unknowingly encourage their puppy to practice the oppositional reflex by allowing it to pull on the leash. Then to top it off, the puppy is rewarded by meeting that other dog or smelling that great smell. The puppy soon learns the more he pulls, the more freedom he gains. A tight leash and a pulling dog become normal.

Oppositional reflex stems from the dog’s predatory instincts. If a dog is pulled in one direction, he will automatically pull in the opposite direction.

*** Never walk forward when the leash is tight and the dog is pulling! When the leash is tight, relieve the tension by having the dog step toward you or by making a quick snap with the leash so that the dog is now without the pressure of the collar. Reward the new behavior!

Happy Heeling------------- Deb

May 2017

I am often asked my opinion of Prong collars, and here is my response: Use what works for you and your dog.

Prong collars, as with any training tool/collar used in dog obedience training, need to be fitted properly and used properly. It is the leash that must be loose at all times regardless of which training collar you use—loose, except when you are making a correction. I cannot stress this enough!

Since all animal behavior is learned by association through trial and error with positive and negative events, training tools can assist with a positive outcome. Some people are physically unable to handle the dog they have chosen. A lot of dogs have very muscled, thick necks and are stronger than their owner. Instead of constantly pulling and nagging the dog by jerking the leash/collar or having a consistently tight lead which a dog will start to ignore, a prong collar adds mild pressure that the dog can feel. As with any negative reinforcer, the dog will work to avoid the pressure. It is the constant TIGHT lead/leash with any training collar that is annoying to the dog without being constructive. If you force the dog to stay in the heel position by having a constant tight leash, the dog will never learn to assume it on his own on a loose leash. Also, most importantly, a good handler knows to praise/reward all good behavior even after a correction. Praise should always be the end result!

Any dog that I have ever trained with a prong collar associates the collar with the training, and the training is associated with a firm, yet loving, generous handler who rewards good behavior. The result is always positive—usually the dog cannot wait to get the training collar on.

Deb Coccagna, Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC

January, 2017

WOW, off to the start of a New Year! Last year just flew by, and I was blessed to meet so many new clients. Thanks for your continued support of Happy Tails. Our growth is basically through word of mouth, and I thank you, my former clients, for referring us to your friends and family.

Does you puppy need training, or does your dog need a refresher course? Feel free to contact us to see if we have anything being offered that would meet your needs.

As a graduate of a Happy Tails course, you are eligible to attend any of our fun events or extra practice sessions at a reduced rate. Dogs love to learn and they have so much more potential than often given credit for. Keep working with your dog- as the bond strengthens, you will have a devoted partner, and an inseparable friend. Happy heeling, -------------deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 6

December 2015

Thanks to those who chose Happy Tails for their training needs. It was a fun year with lots of great handlers and dogs. Keep working with your dogs—they love to learn and spend time with you. Enjoy your dog—their time here is so short, and they have so much to offer. Watch as your dog can teach you some of life’s most valuable lessons—to love unconditionally, to forgive quickly, to be loyal—to name just a few. We are certainly blessed to have been given such a wonderful creation that is so willing to become our best friend.

Classes will start again in mid-January. I look forward to meeting some of those new puppies.

Merry Christmas, Everyone, and wishing you the very best in the New Year!

Happy heeling------ Deb, Tom and “the pack”

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 5

October 2015

Hi All,

I always feel a little blue when summer is over. Fall is just beautiful, though, and the weather is nice-- so what could be better than to take a walk with the dogs? That always seems to clear away those gloomy feelings. J Rails to Trails walk scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7th at 10:30am, weather permitting. Hope to see some of you there (meet at corner of Hood and King Street parking lot).

The outdoor obstacle course has been a lot of fun this year -- Great for building confidence and teamwork, and the dogs always seem to love it. We had some new participants at our RDO day trying the course, which reminds me—we had one new CGC and one new CGCA on RDO day. Sizzle and Trevor, hairless Chinese Cresteds owned by Jen Wager, took on the new titles. Congratulations to Jen and her pups!

We continue to have new graduating STAR puppies as well as new Canine Good Citizens. Thank you for entrusting us to assist with your training needs. A dog that has learned behaviors like sit, down, stay, heel, and come is so much easier to manage and makes for a well-mannered companion.

Happy Heeling---Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 4

August 2015

Hi, Everyone,

Wow, these summer days always seems to fly! Group classes are resuming in mid-August. I look forward to starting these new youngsters in training.

To all students former and present: Our RDO (responsible dog owner) day is scheduled for September 19 from 9 – 12 am. The CGC and CGCA tests will be offered. If you have been a student here, it is offered free of charge. Others will be charged a $15 fee. We will be having demos in nosework, flyball, and obstacles. A rally course will be available for you to try. A few games will also be offered like quickest sit and down, fastest recall. Please join us if you can—should be fun. I know we had a good time last year—see what this year brings!

Training Tip:

What motivates your dog to work for you? On what does your dog base his decision to do what you have asked ? Your job as a trainer is to influence that decision. A good trainer will discover the things his dog values. So what keeps your dog motivated? Is it a treat? If so, which treat? Is it a toy? If so, which toy? Is it your best praise? If so, what tone of voice or where to pet? Is it a good game of fetch to follow the training session? What happened the last time he did this command? Was it worthwhile to obey? There is something in your dog’s life that he is passionate about—use it to your advantage!!

I am really hoping to schedule some more walks -will post on the calendar.

Happy Heeling, ---------------Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 3

June 2015

Hi All,

Yes! Nice weather is here at last!! We’ve been out to Rails to Trails twice now and have had great groups of dogs walking. Look at the events calendar—we will be adding more throughout the summer.

Also, if you are interested in training, feel free to call. Group classes are nearing an end for the summer—just too many vacations to work around in group settings, but I still have private sessions available that you can schedule time at your convenience. The other dogs in the class will be mine—so your dog will still have the opportunity to work around other dogs.

Training Tip: Recognize feedback from your dog. What happens when your dog makes a mistake, gets distracted, doesn’t listen, or blows you off? Your dog is communicating to you—he is giving you feedback. Good handlers recognize feedback. Can you be clearer? Is this too hard? Are you asking for more than he is trained to do? Can it be broken down into smaller steps? What information does your dog need from you? Dogs are excellent communicators. Look at what you are doing to communicate to your dog. Often all that is needed is just a minor change in the handler’s approach. So when your dog gives you feedback, take a deep breath and relax. Assess the big picture--your dog truly does want to please you.

Remember, this time of year: use your pest control, keep them cool, and have water available at all times. Have a great summer!!----------Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 2

April 2015

Yaaay! I think spring may finally be here!!! Can’t wait to get these doggies out on the trails again! We all just need a little sunshine.

We have had some great classes graduating this spring with lots of STAR puppies and/or Canine Good Citizens. Thank you to all who have chosen Happy Tails for your training needs. I have so enjoyed working with you. Many of you have become very good at handling your dog, and I hope to see you maximizing your dog’s potential. Please keep working —the more he learns, the more he wants to learn. AND the bond between you will just grow and grow!

Former and present day students: Keep watching the calendar—we are planning more rails to trails walks—we often do Saturday mornings, but until the weather gets too hot, we may schedule some afternoons as well. We walk 1 mile— the sights and sounds are great for training your dog to become a Community Canine (Advanced level --the CGCA). There is no charge for joining us on the walk—just show up. We meet at the parking lot on the corner of King/ Hood Streets near the bridge. Can’t wait to see you there. Remember, it is also time to break out the bug control for fleas, ticks, mosquitos.

Also, I will soon be planning a Responsible Dog Owner Day for September—Hope many of you can make it. We had a fun time last year with demos and courses set up for you to try. With all these new STARS/CGCs this year, I am hoping for a good turnout. More details to come.

Well, get out there and enjoy these beautiful days ahead, and Happy Heeling,--------Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 2, No. 1

February 2015

Hi All,

Well, the groundhog says, “More winter weather ahead.” Everybody feels house bound, including the dogs. Now is the time to work on obedience and/or agility skills-- Exercise your dog’s mind as well as his body! (Boredom = trouble). A good game of “Find It” or “Hide and Seek” is stimulating and fun for this time of year. Also classes are available: private or group sessions. Sign up now!

Training Tip: The average dog knows 165 words, possibly more with training. Help your canine communicate--He is trying to learn English as a second language. Be consistent with the words you use with the action you want. All family members should use the same word. For example, if the dog is jumping up on you, you should say something like “off” instead of “down,” especially if you have taught that “down” is a lying down position. Using different words is very confusing to the dog, and it also makes him disobey the word/action that you have already taught. When you told him to “down” and if he just got “off,” then he really didn’t do the “down” by going to the lying down position as taught. He is either learning to disobey a command, or he is becoming confused as to the word’s meaning. Remember, consistency is key!

Well, keep warm--------------------Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 1, No. 3

December 1, 2014

It looks as though winter is fast approaching. What better time to train the dog!

Group classes will be forming again in January after the holidays. If you would like to get started sooner, schedule a private session now.

This is often the season for new puppies to be added to the family.

Remember: All puppies are adorable, but these adorable new puppies often obtained at Christmas will need training, love, attention, foo

d, grooming, exercise, vet visits, AND a responsible owner willing to take care of all these needs, not just when obtained, but for their entire life.Be responsible -- do your research before you buy! Get the right breed for you -- know the right size and temperament you are looking for, investigate the cost of care and grooming, how much exercise will this breed require, and whether you have the time, money, and commitment to meet these needs. Pick a breed that suits your lifestyle. And then, enjoy a friend for life!

Former students: I love hearing from you. Feel free to share any accomplishments/achievements you and your “best friend” have made.

Tracey recently told me she and her newest pup, “Seely, CGC,” are planning to participate in a “Read to a Child” event . Isn’t that just what a bloodhound with a great temperament was meant to do!

Hoping to add some “just for fun” events after the holidays-- Keep watching the calendar.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and the best in the New Year!

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 1, No. 2

October 1, 2014

Hi All,

Hope you find yourself out walking the dogs on these great fall days!!

We have a nice group of soon-to-be STAR puppies this session. They are working nicely with their owners and looking pleased to do so. Next sessions will start the end of October.

We had an enjoyable Responsible Dog Ownership Day. Only 2 dogs tested for CGC/CGCA, but both passed with flying colors. (See facebook page for pictures.) We did have a lot of fun with the demos. Bev was here with her flyball champs (Jake & Quill) and future champ (Brody) to demonstrate that great sport. Jen was here with Sizzle and Trevor to demonstrate nosework, which always amazes me. Blaine, my grandson, demonstrated rally with Toby. Then everyone tried their hand/paw at running the course. Even Vladdy came out of retirement to run the course, AND he remembered well! Then we finished up with agility. I know Tom and I had a lot of fun! Hopefully, next year we can shoot for even bigger and better!

Remember to check out the calendar occasionally. We are hoping to add some fun nights soon for former and current students to refresh and tone up your skills. We’ll do some proofing exercises and add some games for fun -- See if your dog can win a prize!!

Keep in touch—If you’ve done something exciting with your dog, call and brag a little-- I love to hear about your progress-----------------Happy Heeling, -------Deb

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Happy Tails Dog Training, LLC Newsletter, Vol. 1, No. 1

August 1, 2014

Hi, All!

Summer is going by so fast – just can’t keep up. J Some of us have gotten new puppies since last classes. Aren’t they fun! I know Tracey has a new bloodhound – Seely. And I’ve added a new poodle – Jasmine.

Group classes will start up again in September. If anybody wants to do their CGC or CGCA test, just let me know that you’re ready, and we can set up a time to get together.

The agility equipment is also set up this month if anyone wants to try their hand/paw at that. It is great for building confidence and stimulating a better working rapport with your dog.

Happy Tails now has a web site: https://sites.google.com/site/debshappytailsdogtrainer, and my logo has gotten an update. Check out the Calendar of Events and please “like” us on Facebook.

Happy Heeling, and keep in touch.

Deb

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