dog training ... what is it ???

There have been incidents involving dogs on St Helena over the past few years, which have resulted in it being very noticeable that a lot of dogs are not trained in basic Obedience. Some of the incidents involve dogs killing and worrying livestock, which has serious repercussions, whilst other dogs are allowed to wander unattended on the Highway etc. These incidents because of the vast number have brought to the foreground the absolute need for basic obedience training. Dogs are pack animals and will follow the `Alpha Dog`. In the case of a trained dog, the `Alpha` is its master. Owners of pet dogs who are untrained, run the risk of having their dog involved in such unacceptable incidents as previously mentioned, which in turn could lead to prosecution for the owner and the dog being `put to sleep` Many of the problems happen simply because the Owner cannot `Handle` their dog because they’ve never been taught how. Ignorance unfortunately is no excuse for breaking the law. Dogs deserve a happy life as much as humans do. A trained dog that is taught right from wrong is a much happier dog. He knows what he can do and what he mustn’t, much like a child is a parent’s responsibility to teach right from wrong. A Dog owner has the responsibility to ensure he teaches his dog the same.

The St Helena SPCA recognised there was a problem. Mr Paul Laban, a member of the Society with vast experience with dogs put a suggestion forward how the problems could be minimised if not eradicated. He and his wife, would willingly give up their own time, and voluntarily assist the people of St Helena by providing a service much needed but up to that point unavailable. His suggestion was wholeheartedly accepted.

On Wednesday 8^th August 2007, the very first Dog Training session took place at Longwood Community centre. The Evening was cold and blustery but seven dogs and their handlers ignored the adverse weather and in good spirits and, with more than a little curiosity, attended this first session of an eight-session course. Professional dog Trainer/Handler, Londoner Paul Laban ably assisted by his island born wife Olga, who also has worked with dogs for a good few years, held the course. Paul and Olga, we are happy to add, are also invaluable serving committee members of the St Helena SPCA.

The sessions consisted of basic Obedience. Walking to heel correctly, which started on lead and progressed to off lead, there were lessons on how to get your dog to sit and stay on command, and later on `retrieve` was taught.

The dogs that varied in ages from 6 months to five years were, when they started, of varying abilities, Some having had no prior training at all. By the time the sessions ended all dogs had insight into the abovementioned and some had mastered several.

At the end of the eighth week, the handlers were pleasantly surprised by the big difference they could see in their dogs and the confidence they had found within themselves with regard to the handling of their respective pets.

Next on Wednesday 31^st August 2007 came the turn of Kingshurst Community Centre. News by now of how exciting and beneficial the training at Longwood had been had filtered through our small community. This time twelve dogs with their handlers showed up, eager to be taught and to learn basic dog handling skills. Again, each and every dog and handler learnt new skills and the handlers were amazed by their dogs’ performances. The Classes were informal and relaxed and the atmosphere was one of astonishment and delight each time a new skill was learnt. Paul and Olga apart from doing the basic obedience classes also assisted with the individual problems being experienced by the handlers, which made the sessions purposeful and beneficial for all. Sadly the 12^th December, the eighth week, came much too fast.

Wednesday 16^th January 2008 saw the beginning of the first class in the Half Tree Hollow Community Centre. Here five dogs and their handlers have started an eight-week course. It would seem that with each district visited the dogs are learning faster than ever! The dogs are there for different reasons, some merely to socialize, others are at different stages of training development and need to be put through the paces. Half Tree Hollow community centre Hall offers a much bigger working space and with fewer animals than before these dogs and their handlers are coming on by leaps and bounds!! They’ve managed easily the basic obedience and are now going onto more advanced topics such as retrieve off lead as a group and walking to heel in a figure eight with all dogs walking at a few seconds interval. Below are just a few photos proving that dogs are smart and no matter how big or small or whether pedigree or mongrel they can all learn, mix well together and be mans (Or womans!) best friend!! The Course at Half Tree Hollow ends, regrettably on Wednesday 5^th March 2008.

Paul and Olga had this to say. “The dog training sessions are not a boring routine. They’re exciting and those that have so far taken part have stated that they’ve seen a great difference in the personality of their dogs and have found the training beneficial to them as handlers in every respect.” They further stated “ We look forward to hearing from as many people as possible, who are interested in training their dogs, We can assure you that you won’t be disappointed but you will be very surprised at just what can be achieved.”

The way forward is to have smaller classes thereby giving more space to the dogs which in turn caused less confrontations, barking etc. It also allows more time for Paul and Olga to concentrate more on a one to one basis with each dog and handler ironing out any problems they may be having.

Paul and Olga plan to visit all districts across the island. So if you’re interested in these sessions and feel you and your dog will benefit, you will be kept updated so you know when Paul and Olga are going to be holding sessions in your area. You can, of course, attend sessions outside of your area, if its easier for you.

The next district will be Jamestown. The date this will start is yet to be finalised but you will be kept updated.

If you are an interested dog owner and you want to know more then contact Paul or Olga on 4648.