Programs

Education is one of Our Companions' top priorities. Our efforts take many forms and include structured classes, one-on-one coaching provided by OC volunteers, as well as a variety of written information that is helpful for pet owners, trainers, and those considering adopting an animal. Read below:

Training Guide: This 15-page guide explains "positive reinforcement training" and provides instructions on the basic obedience commands of a first-level training course, including "drop it," "leave it," "sit," "stay," and "down." Have a dog that constantly tugs on the leash? You'll also learn the basics of teaching loose leash walking to make walk-time a pleasanter experience for you both.

Adoption Guide: If you have just adopted a new dog, this 12-page guide will help you start off on the right foot. Learn how to introduce your new pet to your family, including other pets … how to become the leader of your pack … and the 10 steps to doggie happiness. You'll also get help with housebreaking, crate training, and common behavioral problems.

Forever Home Manual: If you're faced with the task of finding a new home for your pet or re-homing a stray you've taken in temporarily, this 13-page, step-by-step manual will be invaluable to you. Shelters do the best they can, but because you know the animal best, you are best equipped to place it in a new home. Using the recommended procedures takes a little time, but your pet deserves the best new home you can find - and you'll sleep better knowing that your pet is happy, healthy and safe in his or her new home. Includes sample adoption contract.

Our Companions Cat Guide, an easy read for cat owners that will address "everything cat," according to Chief Executive Officer Susan Linker, "including interaction with people and other pets, common problems and treatments, and inappropriate elimination issues - how to avoid them or treat them if they happen."

Coming soon will be a manual focusing on Cats and the Litter Box. This publication will provide information to pet owners about how to create socially appropriate systems to encourage good litter box habits, and how to properly address problems with cats eliminating outside the box.