When the bond between the owner and pet is not strong, the pet is not considered part of the family, and the pet is surrendered to us. You don't hear people say, "Well, we are leaving the children behind because they really don't listen and never pick up their rooms, and we don't want them messing up our new place." But this is their train of thought when it comes to their pets. The success of any adoption can be measured by many outcomes. These factors may include the environment and quality of life the new family gives the animal and most importantly if the adoptee has found a loving, safe home where the animal can be a "Pet For Life."

The structure of any training or behavior programs emphasizes the perspective that most problem behavior is actually normal behavior occurring in ways or contexts that are unacceptable to an owner.

We offer several resources for Pet Training or Behavior Help:
(Remember there is a difference between pet training and pet behavior issues.)

1. Behavior Helpline is a 24-Hour behavior Helpline that is available at no charge. When you call this number, you will get an automated greeting. You will then be asked to describe the problem you are having. Your call will be returned by a specially-trained volunteer who will provide advice and a step-by-step approach to solving the problem. This is an out of the area group and a toll-free number call at 1-877-738-0217.
2. 731-APET is our 24-Hour Behavior Helpline that is available at no charge and is a wonderful tool that our community can use to help them with pets that are experiencing behavior issues. When you call this number, you will get an automated greeting and will then be asked to leave a message regarding your pet and the problem you are having. Your message needs to describe the behavior problem, when it started, what has been done to correct it, what type of animal you have and the pet's age. Also please leave a number to best reach you and the best time to call back. We will contact you regarding the behavior problem within 48 hours. (Although we cannot help you with aggression problems, we will point you in the right direction for professional help.) Call 731-APET (2738) directly, or just call the shelter and follow the automated prompts to the Behavior Helpline.
3. Or check out the World Wide Web several of the pet food companies offer training tips on their websites.
4. Recommended Pet Books