SEPTEMBER 2021 • LONGISLANDPRESS.COM 83
PRESS PETS
WAGMORE DOG TRAINING
BACK TO SCHOOL — FOR DOGS!
BY ALISON MATOS
We already know Long Island is home
to the best human schools in the nation,
but there are also a wide variety
of excellent dog training schools and
programs. Whether you have a new
puppy at home or an older dog with
a behavioral issue, dog training is
a necessity for both dogs and their
owners.
With so many programs to choose from,
it can be hard to decide which learning
experience would work best for your
pup. Melanie Hanan, founder/owner
of WagMore Dog Training, LLC, has
been in the dog training business for
more than 10 years and provides two of
the most popular types of dog training
services for her clients: board-andtrain
programs and in-home training.
“Since dog training is 50 percent human
training, the best training experience
depends on the owner’s lifestyle and
needs,” says Hanan.
“Board-and-train is a great option for
owners who may not have the time to
work with their pet in the trainer’s
absence. It’s also beneficial for dogs
with behavioral or aggression issues.
A board-and train program typically
runs from one to four weeks and
when the dog is ready to go home, the
training continues for the owner, as
this is a key element in the program’s
success. Program length and elements
are customized based on owner goals,”
says Hanan. Board-and-train is also a
great alternative to boarding a dog
when pet owners go on vacation.
If you prefer to keep your pooch at
home, there’s always an option for
private lessons. Lessons are tailored
to meet the dog’s needs and the owner’s
goals, and may be held at home, at the
park, or any number of locations to
facilitate a well-rounded training program.
“Daily practice by the family is
necessary for effective learning as well
as follow-up maintenance to ensure
good results in the future,” says Hanan.
Whether you choose in-house or out
of the house training, when weighing
options, Hanan suggests doing your
homework. “Be sure to read reviews
and ask for references. Dog training
is an unregulated profession, which
means that anyone can claim to be a
trainer. Be sure to check certifications
and conduct thorough research
before moving forward. It’s very
important to use trainers that do not
teach using fear, submission, and/or
intimidation tactics. Positive reinforcement
techniques help solidify
the bond between you and your dog,”
says Hanan.
Remember, every dog learns differently
based on genetics, breed, and the
presence or absence of early training/
socialization, so be patient with your
pup. Before you know it, you’ll both be
at the head of your class!
For more information about WagMore
Dog Training, visit the website at
wagmore.dog.
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Any questions call
Peter or Paul at
631-224-4400
Melanie Hanan, founder/owner of
WagMore Dog Training, LLC, and
Brody.
N O RT H S H O R E A N I M A L L E A G U E A M E R I C A
Walk or Run in your own community
and save more dogs and cats
Join national Walk & Wag and get active while raising crucial funds
for homeless animals. Throughout September, choose your date,
location, distance . . . and get waggin’!
Virtual Walk & Wag is fun for everyone:
5K option for runners
Virtual Vendor Village
Friendly competitions, contests,
silent auction, fundraising
rewards, and more!
Register to walk or run
today, and get waggin’!
animalleague.org/walkandwag
or scan QR Code to learn more
#walkandwag2021 @animalleague
LEAD SPONSORS:
Top Dog Sponsor Proud Pup Sponsor
To view more sponsors or become one,
visit: animalleague.org/walkandwag
Questions? events@animalleague.org 516.373.3496
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