This valuable information is being brought to you by the experts at St. Hubert's Animal Center.

St. Hubert's is a nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to the humane treatment of companion animals and provides services that support the human-animal bond. Our two animal shelters provide safe refuge and compassionate care for 5,000 lost, abandoned, abused, and injured animals every year.

Aware that the majority of dogs surrendered to shelters are given up due to behaviors that their families find unacceptable, in 1984 St. Hubert's established a dog training school, which is now one of the largest in the country.

In order to enhance the relationship between dog and its guardian, St. Hubert's offers training courses designed to educate the garudian as well as the dog. A basic understanding of the canine thought process, coupled with instruction on showing the pet what is expected of him in a positive and humane manner are paramount to the development of a social animal with good manners. A dog that responds willingly to his or her guardian's direction and can behave well in a variety of settings becomes a cherished family member and is much less likely to be given up. Providing training is an integral part of St. Hubert's mission and helps ensure that canine companions remain happily in their homes throughout their lives.

The St. Hubert's Dog Training School is co-directed by Pia Silvani and Anne Paul. Pia Silvani is a nationally recognized trainer and vice president of the board of directors for the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, an international organization comprised of more than 1,800 professional members. Anne Paul, who has trained many dogs that have gone on to become National Champions, directs the Competitive Sports Program and began training dogs in 1978. With a staff of more than 15 professional dog trainers who employ positive reinforcement techniques, St. Hubert'sDog Training School graduates more than 3,000 dogs a year from obedience classes. We offer the following classes: kindergarten puppy training, basic obedience, advanced obedience, super advanced obedience, back to basics, feisty fidos, agility and competition training.

To further our goal of helping people with pet problems, we are currently producing a series of audio tapes to address routine behavioral problems. The series, called "Dogs Will Be Dogs" will be accompanied with a training booklet outlining the main points of the program and offering guidance on finding reputable trainers in your area. The topics scheduled for production are: The Art of Housebreaking, Good House Manners, My Destructive Dog and Leader of the Pack. These tapes are designed for new and experienced dog gaurdians alike to help establish consistent household rules to keep dogs on their best behavior. The Humane Society of the United States has commended St. Hubert's for its dedication to helping dogs and cats stay in the lifelong homes they deserve with responsible care takers. If you are interested in receiving more information on the audio series "Dogs Will Be Dogs" please e-mail us at emathews@sthuberts.org and we will notify you as soon as the tapes are released and available for purchase.