Behavior Helpline & Information
The Behavior Department at the Potter League for Animals helps pet owners understand and improve their pets' behavior. We want to keep dogs and cats in your home and out of our shelter.
Although many dogs and cats lose their homes and families because of 'problem behaviors,' most of these problems can be prevented or solved with some basic lessons in manners or minor training tips.
The Potter League is here to help so that you and your dog or cat can be friends for life. Please consider us Newport County's animal resource center.
Behavior Helpline …
Barking, housetraining, scratching are common complaints and our specially trained employees and volunteers are available by phone or email to help. Let us help you understand why pets do what they do. Call 401-846-8276 or email at info@potterleague.org. Byron Davies is the person who will coordinate a response to your questions.
Adult Dog Training Classes…
Dog owners can 'bone up' on basic obedience and etiquette. All of our classes emphasize the importance of positive reinforcement.
For dogs adopted from the Potter League there is a free obedience class every Saturday at 1pm. Potter alumnae are encouraged to drop-in at any time to learn the basics or to get a refresher. Join the fun … and the staff is always thrilled to see our adopted dogs again!
The Potter League also offers group training classes that are open to any owner and their canine companion over the age of 9 months. Each course runs for six weeks, and the cost is $110 for both basic and intermediate training levels. Check the Calender of Events section of the website for for details and to learn when the next session begins.
Puppy Kindergarten …
Periodic 5 week puppy classes focus on socialization, good manners and fun! Puppies between the age of 8 weeks and 9 months will receive a lot of playtime, and the owners will learn to understand and effectively deal with the stages of puppy development. This course is available free to puppies adopted from the Potter League. There is a $90 fee for all others. Check the Calender of Events section of the website for for details and to learn when the next session begins.
Specialty Classes …
For fun and training we suggest Basic Agility and Rally-O. These have been very popular 4 week classes. Short programs that teach recall, loose leash walking, or tricks are held for one or two classes. Other short programs offer tips to help annoying problems including barking, door dashing or possession of toys. Check the Calender of Events section of the website for details and to learn when the next session begins.
Potter's Pet University …
Join us for fun classes and tips on a variety of training and behavior concerns from 6:30 to 7:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Check the Calender of Events section of the website for a list of scheduled topics. The classes are free but donations are gratefully accepted.
Head Start… 401-846-8276
Our Behavior Staff also provide an important service to canines that are available for adoption at our shelter: a head start! Young dogs that have not been socialized properly around people or have not received any training prior to arriving at the Potter League can often appear unappealing to prospective adopters. So, to help them learn "good manners" - and to give them the physical and mental stimulation they may need - we give these dogs preliminary obedience lessons. Ask about adopting one of our special HeadStart dogs … or volunteer to train one.
Other…
The Potter League maintains an extensive library of books, articles, internet resources and videos to help solve behavior problems and train dogs and cats effectively. We also have an extensive list of solutions and tips on solving common dog and cat behavior problems. The Potter League's goal is to keep pets and people together.