FAQ

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Things to know BEFORE registering for classes

Can I observe a class before signing up?  Absolutely.  Please contact us to arrange.

Can I sign up for classes if I have an aggressive or highly reactive dog? At this time, TCCA does not accept aggressive or highly reactive dogs into any classes. This is a situation where a few private lessons are better for everyone. Then, when you have practiced and your dog is calmer, you can join TCCA classes.

How do I know which class to take?   The Class Selection Guides and Course Descriptions will guide you.

Is my dog too young/small to start classes?  We welcome puppies age 8 weeks or older and dogs of any size.  We plan classes with safety in mind, for dogs of all sizes.

What if I have taken classes somewhere else? Can I jump in anywhere?  It depends - see info on selecting classes and course descriptions. If after reading about prerequisites and equivalencies you still aren’t sure – contact us.

How do I register for classes?  Register for classes online through our website.  We use PayPal there.  If you do not have a PayPal account, simply choose the “Guest Checkout” option in PayPal. If you simply cannot do this, contact us and we will help you register online or give an alternative method.

Where are classes held?  All classes are held on the TCCA campus.  Your confirmation email and/or the calendar on TCCA’s website will tell you which building holds your class. 

When are classes held?  Click here for all classes currently on the schedule. More classes are being added all the time.

How much do classes cost?  The cost of each class will vary depending on number of class sessions, amount of space and the costs of equipment necessary to offer the class, etc.  You can find the price for each class on the course descriptions page and elsewhere throughout the site.

What is your refund policy? Our standard policy for classes is that a full refund is given if you withdraw from class at least 10 days prior to the start of class.  There are no refunds after that 10 day window, but we will roll your enrollment over into another class of your choice if you contact us before class starts.  There are no refunds or rollovers after classes start. There are no refunds for Practice Time. If you are unable to attend after you signed up, you may find someone else to purchase your session from you. The person who buys your session needs to provide vaccination records and sign the release form.

What training methods are used in classes?  At TCCA we use positive-reinforcement based training methods, which are scientifically proven to be effective and dog-friendly.  As part of this method, clickers (or other marker) are used to signal to the dog that they have performed the desirable behavior. 

Do I HAVE to use a clicker?  What if I don’t like it?  We will not require that you use a clicker.  However, we strongly recommend a clicker for reasons we will go over in class.  A clicker provides the most consistent sound signal for your dog -- it sounds exactly the same every time, without emotions or variations factoring in to confuse a dog.  We believe you’ll really enjoy the magic of the clicker once you become proficient using one.  You will be provided with ample instruction on how to effectively use a clicker in the PREP Class.

What equipment will I need to practice at home?  The equipment needs for each class will be different.  Most require nothing but your clicker and your time and a quiet space for practice.  Please refer to the course description for information specific to your class.

Can my child be my dog’s handler in class?  Yes, your child can be the primary handler of your dog as long as they are able to safely manage the dog around other dogs and people, and are mature enough to follow instruction.  Please note:  A parent or legal guardian must be present and engaged during the entire class time, and sign the release form.

Can I bring more than one of my dogs to the same class?  If so, will I get a discount?  Each dog in class needs to have a dedicated handler/trainer to be able to participate in all class activities.  Dividing your time between two dogs just doesn’t work.  At TCCA, we keep our class sizes small for individualized help, adjusted to dogs’ needs. 

What vaccinations does my dog need to attend class?  At the time of registration you will be asked to verify that your dog is up-to-date for age-appropriate vaccines such for rabies, Distemper and Parvo. We also highly recommend a Bordetella shot, flea and tick prevention, and regular de-worming.  Please consult with your veterinarian for your dog’s health needs. If you wonder about Puppy Kindergarten, please see specific vaccination information for pups on the course outline. 

How to be prepared for your FIRST class session

What should I wear to class?  Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (large pockets are a plus) and athletic type footwear.  Avoid flip-flops and bare feet please.

Should I feed my dog before class?  Food is a primary reinforcer which is used during training.  If your dog is working on a full stomach, the reinforcer may not be as effective as it could be.  Therefore, please refrain from feeding your dog his/her entire meal before class.   This will prevent your dog from consuming excess calories too.

What equipment do I need to bring to class?  Equipment common to all classes:  A leash approximately 4-6’ long, a flat-buckle collar or harness, water and water dish, at least 3 cups of yummy treats, treat bag, and a clicker (provided in PREP Class).  There may be other equipment required for specific classes – your confirmation email will state what you need for each class, as well as the course outline.  Any items not listed will be provided by TCCA.

Can my kids/significant other come to class?  It is wonderful when the whole family can be part of your dog’s training journey.  Others are welcome to observe class as long as they are able to sit quietly, be respectful, and observe without disruption.  Please note that class can be uneventful, and possibly even outright boring for small children.

Situations which may arise after class has already STARTED

What happens if I miss a class?  If possible, please let your instructor know in advance that you will be gone.  Any instructions and/or hand-outs that you missed can then be emailed to you.

What is your refund policy if I have to stop class after it already starts?  There are no refunds after classes start.  Our standard policy is that a full refund is given if you withdraw from class at least 10 days prior to the start of class.  There are no refunds after that 10 day window, but we will roll your enrollment over into another class of your choice if you contact us before class starts.  The refund policy for Practice TIme is different and can be found here.

What if my dog is sick on a class day?  We encourage you to consult with your veterinarian.  No dog that has diarrhea or is vomiting should come to class.  If it is determined that your dog shouldn’t come to class, you are still encouraged to attend class without your dog.

What if my dog is in season?  Please contact your instructor before bringing your dog to TCCA while in season.  We handle this on a case-by-case basis.

What happens if class has to be canceled due to weather or other situations? Everyone’s safety is our utmost concern. If conditions exist which cause classes to be canceled, a make-up session will be scheduled so that you will still have your full number of class sessions.

How will I be notified if classes are canceled? You will be notified in the following ways:
- A banner will be posted across the top of each page on the website.
- The calendar will have an indication that classes have been canceled.
- An email will be sent out to all students who are registered in the affected classes.
- A follow-up text message will be sent out.
- A voice message might also be left, if students haven’t replied back to the email and/or text message.

How do I practice during the week or between courses?  Much practice can be done in your home, your yard, and in your everyday life.  Your instructors will offer suggestions on training that you can be doing.  TCCA also offers various types of practice time that provides you with the opportunity to practice outside of class time. 

Still more questions? 

Send us an email with your question, and we will send you an answer!