Beginning May 22, new dog training courses will be available with instructor and dog aficionado Kim Stinson. Stinson, who recently moved to Big Sky from Alaska, has trained canines in obedience, service and search and rescue. She has worked with Midnight Sun Service Dogs, Alaska Assistance Dogs, Alaska Search and Rescue Dogs and the Alyeska Ski Patrol Avalanche Dogs.
Stinson is also an evaluator for the American Kennel Club in their Canine Good Citizen program. Private lessons are available, and more classes will be offered throughout the summer.
Class schedule:
Adult Level 1: (5:30-6:30 p.m. starting May 22, 8 weeks) Cost: $180
For dogs 6 months old and older. Focus on basic obedience commands including sit, down, come, stay and loose leash walking. Learn about body language, canine behavior and basic manners in order to improve your relationship with your dog.
Puppy Level 1: (7-8 p.m. starting Tuesday June 12, 8 weeks) Cost: $180
For puppies under 6 months of age. This class will focus on positive socialization, handling and basic commands including sit, down, come, stay, leave it and loose leash walking. This class qualify your puppy as a STAR Puppy with the American Kennel Club.
Canine agility for children: (4-5 p.m. June 19, July 17 and August 21) Cost: $25 per class
This is a non-competitive, fun hour to learn some agility tricks for your dog. We will utilize familiar objects easily found around your house and forest to make agility equipment that the whole family can enjoy. *Parents must remain in attendance for entire class!
Class Requirements: Bring plenty of soft, chewy and small treats, a flat buckle collar and 4’ or 6’ non- retractable leash, vaccination records. Kids under the age of 15 need to be accompanyied by an adult.
Contact Stinson at Theydontcomethatway@yahoo.com. To register, contact Katie Coleman, 406-209-1643 or camp@bsccmt.org.
