My dog doesn't go in a crate , what do I do?
Do I have to go through your Adult Manners or Beginner Puppy School course before swimming?
Nope, There are no prerequisites to swim in our pool!
Do you take all breeds?
Yes, we sure do, any and all breeds are welcome at our facility.
Do you take intact dogs?
Yes we welcome intact dogs at our facility!
What is your vaccine policy?
My dog's in heat, what can I do?
If your dog comes into heat while in one of our classes, you’re still more than welcome to join us! We ask that you inform your instructor and your dog wears panties to class. Dogs in heat are not allowed in our pool or water treadmill.
What supplies do I need for class?
All students registered for class will be sent a supply list prior to the start of their class. But in general, you can expect to bring treats, chews, a regular collar, a 6 foot leash, one of our required loose leash walking tools, and something to cover your crate. If you need to bring a crate, we will let you know.
How many people can come with me to class?
We allow two handlers per dog in all of our classes, a maximum of two people can go back to our pool at a time, and we allow one person in our water treadmill sessions at a time.
Where do I start with training my dog?
New clients interested in training will go ahead and start in either our Beginner Puppy School or Adult Manners course depending on your dog’s age. We also have a variety of workshops available with no prerequisites!
What training methods do you use?
Here at Think Pawsitive we train using Positive Reinforcement, meaning we reward the behaviors we want to see with treats and toys!
Can I swim with my dog?
No. For liability and safety reasons, we do not allow customers in our pool.
Is your pool heated?
Our pool is kept heated to 84 degrees year-round so your dog can swim comfortably in any season!
How big is your pool?
Our pool is 41 ft. x 21 ft.
How many Assisted Swims are required for my dog to become a PRO Swimmer?
Unfortunately, we can’t put a number on it as all dogs are different, but our ‘Learn to Swim’ package is a great place for any dog to start!
How do I get started?
All dogs new to swimming at our facility will start with an Initial Swim Evaluation.
My dog had surgery a couple months ago and my vet recommended swimming. Is that something I am able to do at your facility?
Absolutely! We do require a veterinary input form to be filled out by your vet prior to you scheduling an Assisted Swim. This way our staff can ensure your dog receives a positive and safe experience in the pool. The staff will give you tips on how to keep your dog safe for future swims without a staff member assisting.
My dog has never worn a life jacket, do I have to put one on my dog?
Yes, we do require that all Initial Swim Evaluations be completed with your dog wearing a life jacket. We also require that dogs in Assisted Swims wear a life jacket if a staff member has to be in the pool with them. Some dogs struggle finding the ramp their first time at a new facility, and by putting a life jacket on your dog our staff has a safe comfortable way to grab onto your dog if they need help. Some dogs need extra assistance in the pool and a life jacket allows our staff to position their body correctly.
My dog doesn’t like toys, can he still swim?
Of course, our staff will try out a variety of treats and toys with your dog. We can work on encouraging either food or toy drive to motivate your dog to swim, and we can also work on retrieves later once we’ve used food to help your dog develop a positive association with water!
What does TAILS stand for?
TAILS stands for Tailored Adventures, Interactive Learning, and Sports.
How do I know if my dog is a good fit for TAILS?
Dogs coming into our TAILS Academy program are friendly with strangers and other dogs. They should be comfortable being lifted and touched, comfortable in a plastic or wire crate, and okay with a stranger reaching into their crate to attach a harness, leash, or gentle leader.
What type of training methods are used in TAILS?
We train using positive reinforcement. That means reinforcing the behaviors we want to see with treats and/or toys.
Do full day dogs get the same number of sessions as half day dogs?
Full day dogs will get double the number of sessions as half day dogs!
What should I pack with my dog?
Treats – ¼” soft treats: For example, tricky trainers, hot dogs, cheese, dehydrated treats, etc. – A regular flat buckle collar with a name tag attached – One of our 4 acceptable loose leash walking tools: Sensation Harness, Easy Walk Harness, Freedom No-Pull Harness or a Gentle Leader Head Halter – A regular 6-foot leash – A chew or Kong for inside their crate – No Hide chews, bully sticks, pig’s ears, Kongs stuffed with peanut butter, wet food, broth-soaked kibble, cottage cheese, slow feeder bowls, etc.
What will my dog be doing when they aren’t in a session with an instructor?
When dogs aren’t in a session with an instructor, they will enjoy a chew or Kong in their crate for a well-deserved rest and mental break to help prepare for their next active session.
How far does my dog walk on leash walks?
Most dogs with leash walking success get ½-mile to 1-mile walks!
