Dog Pals Sports Camp

Puppy Kindergarten classes are for puppies 8 to 16 weeks old, focusing on critical socialization, potty training, feeding, body handling, and basic skills like come, down, sit, wait, and leash manners. Training is conducted through play, utilizing various toys, agility equipment, and different surfaces on a working homestead. Scheduling is flexible, allowing clients to choose class dates that suit them.

Basic Manners Class is for dogs over 16 weeks old, serving as an initial step to build foundational skills and strengthen the bond between dog and owner. The first session is a humans-only orientation, and proper vaccination is required. Intermediate and Advance Manners Classes are designed for friendly dogs that can work closely with others, expanding on previously learned skills. A meeting with the trainer is required for dogs not having taken prior classes before enrolling in these advanced levels. The Advance Manners class also prepares dogs for AKC CGC, CGCA, and CGCU titles.

Canine Sports programs include Agility, Dock Diving, Herding, Rally Obedience, and Farm Dog Certification, offering engaging activities for dogs and owners. K9 Search and Rescue (SAR) training is an advanced, multidisciplinary adventure suitable for all active dogs, including nervous ones, as it helps build confidence. It covers Scentwork, Urban Agility (navigating obstacles like rubble piles and planks), and advanced Obedience (distance commands, recalls).

Additionally, they offer an 8-hour Canine Nutrition class, covering topics from reading dog food labels to creating home-based diets and holistic remedies. They also provide assistance in designing balanced diets. Pet First Aid & CPR certification classes are also available.

Policies

For group classes, Dog Pals / Healthy Pets USA requires puppies to have received at least Parvo/Distemper vaccinations, with proof from a veterinarian. For Basic Manners and other classes, dogs must be properly vaccinated and healthy enough to attend, requiring a physical exam and submission of vaccine or health records to the trainer before the first class. For Intermediate and Advance Manners classes, and K9 Search and Rescue, a meeting with the trainer is required prior to signing up if the dog has not taken previous classes or if the owner is unsure if their dog can handle the training.

Dog Pals Sports Camp & Healthy Pets USA offers a comprehensive approach to canine care, focusing on raising, training, living, and having fun with dogs using a holistic philosophy. They provide a wide range of programs designed to build a strong foundation for dogs and their owners, from early puppyhood through advanced training and specialized activities.

Their offerings include Puppy Kindergarten, Basic, Intermediate, and Advance Manners classes, and preparation for AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certifications. They also delve into specialized areas such as Canine Sports (Agility, Dock Diving, Herding, Rally Obedience, Farm Dog Certification), K9 Search and Rescue, Canine Nutrition, Pet First Aid & CPR, and outdoor-focused training like Wilderness Medicine and Leave No Trace.

The training philosophy, particularly for puppies, is described as “Edutainment,” emphasizing learning through play and utilizing a working homestead environment for unique socialization opportunities. Jim Helems, the primary trainer, has been dedicated to dog training since 2005, with a background in competitive agility and a commitment to helping owners understand dog psychology to achieve desired results.

Beyond training, they offer Canine Field & Equipment Rentals and host Dog Events & Trials. Jim also provides guidance on canine nutrition, including an 8-hour class and personalized diet design assistance, and teaches Pet First Aid & CPR certification courses.

Accomplishments

Jim Helems is an educator with over 15 years of experience in dog training, having started his full-time mission in 2005 after his Australian Shepherd, Jake, earned an agility championship (C-ATCH) within two years. He lives with his wife, four Australian Shepherds, cats, and raises various farm animals, reflecting his holistic approach to canine living.

Clients praise Jim for his extensive knowledge, preparedness, and effective teaching style, particularly in Pet First Aid and CPR certification courses. Testimonials highlight his ability to understand dog psychology and achieve desired results, improving the relationship between dogs and their families.

How to Get Started!

To begin, new clients interested in Basic Manners classes will attend a humans-only orientation. For Intermediate or Advance Manners classes, or K9 Search and Rescue, if your dog has not taken prior classes or if you are unsure about their suitability, you will need to meet with the trainer before signing up. For Puppy Kindergarten, once the class is paid for, clients can schedule their sessions via a private online registration page. General inquiries can be directed to Jim via his contact page.