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“Alison Smith, the trainer and behaviorist, at Metro Dog is fabulous. She knows her dogs. We have used her services several times. We have worked with Alison both in her training classes and one-on-one consultations. Ten years ago, Alison helped us with our adult dog who had a barking problem. She gave us strategies on how to alleviate the problem. Recently, we got a new puppy and we’ve taken her basic classes.
We especially liked her Basic 3 class. It was invaluable. It teaches you how to be with your dog in the real world and takes you out into a shopping mall, trail, and other places. Alison works with you to build a relationship with your dog.
Alison is knowledgeable. She easily assesses the problems and gives you concrete advice about how to train or modify the behavior. Alison is also accessible. If you have a follow-up question, she will help you because she cares about her clients. We’ve recommended her services to several friends. Use her services, she’s great.”— Elaine & Mike Penzer
3117 Pierce Street, Richmond, CA, 94804 • 510.524.DOGS (3647) • info@metrodog.com
Socials
PUPPY SOCIAL
FREE! Weekly socials for puppies up to 5 months old in one of 3 separate areas. Not all puppies are the same. We offer separate yards for shy pups and first timers, active pups and larger active pups. Each week is a different mix and each puppy is different week by week. , Both you and your pup get to socialize and learn about good social play (for your puppy, that is!). Let us help you guide your young furry friend into becoming a great dog.
Pups can keep coming after 5 months in our Not-So-Puppy yard.
NOT-SO-PUPPY
For puppies who have been attending the puppy social but are now too old, the Not-So- Puppy Social is a safe space for your teenage hound to play. All play is monitored by Metro Dog staff and information and support are given to the humans about creating and maintaining good social interactions. Only open to existing Puppy Social Participants or Metro Dog Clients with permission.
SMALL DOG SOCIAL
Bring your special under 25 pound pooch to party with his or her friends in a warm, safe indoor park. 3 areas allow for separate gatherings for shy dogs and super active dogs. Metro Dog staff are there to help with information and advice on safe socialization for the littles.
SCHEDULE
Please see our Calendar to see a current schedule of socials!
BOOKING INFORMATION
For more information or to book, please contact Alison Smith at training@metrodog.com
SPACE RENTAL
Want a private party for your dog and his friends? How about an indoor dog park for your regular play group? Or a big indoor space to work on training? Metro Dog’s Classroom is available for rent by the hour. Please email us for information and availability.
SOCIALS FAQS
Who may attend?
All socials are intended to be a resource for social dogs and their humans. If your dog hasn’t had good experiences meeting strange dogs outside the home this not a good place to start.
First Timers:
First time dogs and people need to check in with a staff person and give them your signed Socials Release Form. We will have a quick conversation about your pooch to determine which yard would be best to introduce her to the social. We will look at your vaccine records – Puppies under 16 weeks need to show the most recent puppy shot records. Puppy shots are given no more than 4 weeks apart. Once a dog has completed their puppy shots we require Distemper, Parvo, Rabies and Bordetella. We will go over our cleaning methods and your responsibilities at the social.
What should I bring with me?
Your puppy, vaccine records and your questions.
What is a puppy?
A puppy is any dog under 16 weeks of age.
What is a small dog?
A social small dog is under 25 pounds and is comfortable having dogs her own size approach her. A social small dog doesn’t hide from other dogs and doesn’t chase them away
How do I know if my dog is social?
A social dog is one who already enjoys playing with other dogs at parks, classes or daycares. A social dog is interested in other dogs. A social dog can accept correction from other dogs and is able to modify his approach to make other dogs feel comfortable. A social dog can share toys. Socials are not a place to teach a dog to be social.
Rules and policies:
• Metro Dog has the right to disallow any dog or puppy from attending any social.
• Dogs and Puppies must appear healthy and parasite free.
• Owners are responsible for their dogs behavior. Staff will ask you to monitor your dog for specific behaviors and interrupt them when they occur. Failing to follow staff instructions we result in expulsion.
• Owners must clean up after their dogs using the products provided. There are mop buckets for cleaning up Urine ONLY. We use scoops or biodegradable bags to pick up solid waste (feces, vomit) and then spray bottles of cleaner and rags to clean up the residue. Our cleanser is a mixture of a non-toxic, biodegradable cleanser, anti-viral and anti-bacterial agents and an enzyme based deodorizer.
• You must stay in the room with your dog.
• You must have eyes on your dog at all times.