Offering new class in the community of children

Prepping Kids for Pets

Did you give in to your kids’ constant requests for a puppy and leave one under the tree for them this year? Might want to consider an additional stocking stuffer in the form of one of the many puppy training classes offered by Wallingford’s Susan Oshie, a former vet tech and owner ofPaws4Training.

Oshie’s diverse curriculum covers all the bases, from puppy socialization (teaching them to sit, come, lay down, leave it and walk on a leash) to introducing kids to their furry new friends in the Kids and Dogs class. Geared to toddlers 3 and up, the class teaches the dos and don’ts of puppy love, from how to greet a dog (put  your hand out flat under dog’s chin to let them sniff you first) to how to hold and pet them.

Oshie’s newest class, Introducing Your Dog to Baby, is for expecting parents and covers what to do before, when and after a baby joins the family. Her advice includes introducing baby smells and sounds beforehand and getting friends to help with walking the dog. In those first few months with the new babe, parents often don’t have time and energy for their pet.  ”It’s okay to ask for help,” Oshie says, “because you’ve got to take care of your dog’s emotional, physical and mental needs.” The end result: a happier dog equals a happier family.

—Kavita Varma-White