I adopted my first Rescue Ranch dog in 2019. Frieda was a German shepherd/cattle dog blend from the Vistas and just nine weeks old when I brought her home. She was the shy one of the litter and I was a very anxious puppy parent. I was determined to set Frieda up for success. I’m forever grateful for Rescue Ranch’s free weekly socialization classes. There I was able to ask questions, get training advice, and let Frieda meet dozens of dogs and people in a safe environment. There’s not a doubt in my mind that this regular socialization helped her grow into a well-adjusted dog.
Regular socialization is life-changing…
Frieda and I attended Sunday class for her first several months. She loved it, and I loved my growing confidence. These classes were transformative in my journey as a dog handler. Before adopting Frieda, I believed that how a dog turned out was the result of their breeding. My first two dogs had left me with a lot of doubt. Both were rescues and though I never gave up on them, they were a challenging pair.
Frieda showed me that when it comes to raising a well-balanced dog, nurture is more important than nature. My first dogs may not have had the easiest personalities (one was a socially-challenged Great Dane and the other a remarkably stubborn mutt). But their behavior was mostly due to my own ignorance. If I had socialized them like I did Frieda, things would have been different.
My understanding of positive reinforcement training has grown over the years. But Rescue Ranch’s weekly classes taught me key concepts that transformed how I communicated with my dogs. I learned that how you hold the leash is even more important than what kind of equipment you use (hint: a relaxed grip is key). That your tone of voice communicates more than what you say. And I watched dogs respond to confident leadership from their handlers.
…and builds confidence!
It was reassuring to be able to ask advice when Frieda reached her teenage fear stage. Ultimately, knowing how well she handled introductions in class helped me relax when out and about in the world. She grew into such a sweet dog, kind and confident when meeting strangers. Leash reactivity took a little more work to overcome. But with practice, regular socialization, and my growing confidence, she learned to watch me instead of reacting. Frieda was so well-behaved out in public that people complimented her.
I now live with a pack of five dogs, four of them from Rescue Ranch. They’re all different sizes and breed mixes, and they have very different personalities. But the skills I learned with Frieda help me understand and manage them all.
My dear Frieda passed away earlier this autumn. I can’t find the words for how much I miss her. I knew right away that the best way for me to go forward is to share what she taught me with another puppy. Now I bring Gelato (Gelli for short) to class. Gelli is unique yet reminds me of Frieda. She’s much more outgoing and people-focused, but she has the same joy. And like Frieda she loves meeting new dogs.
Socialization classes are an amazing resource–and volunteer opportunity!
If you’re raising a puppy, looking for training advice, or simply want to hang out with other dog people, our free weekly classes are an amazing resource. All dogs are welcome. We do ask that puppies be at least 12 weeks old and have their appropriate vaccines.
Classes are informal and flexible. Our experienced trainers are happy to troubleshoot, offer advice, and demonstrate new skills. It’s such a positive environment and we’ve seen some amazing transformations!
If you’re looking for a creative volunteer opportunity, we’re always looking for volunteers to attend class with our Rescue Ranch puppies. We have dozens of youngsters growing up in the shelter and there just aren’t enough pairs of hands to go around. We’d be delighted for you to help our pups learn crucial skills and get the regular socialization they need.
Our free weekly classes run every Sunday from 10 AM till noon. You don’t need to sign up in advance, but it’s a good idea to call ahead in case of cancellation. To volunteer, please come early and speak with our office manager.
I look forward to seeing you there!
