Each year, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the largest professional association for dog trainers in the world, proclaims January "National Train Your Dog Month." This campaign’s goal is to promote the importance of training and socialization to all dog owners.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, between 6 million and 8 million dogs and cats are surrendered to animal shelters each year, and about 4 million are put down for lack of good homes. Studies by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy have found that most dogs (and cats) are turned in to shelters for common behavior and training issues that could easily be solved with the assistance of a professional. In fact, research has found that training and socializing dogs when they're young can reduce or even eliminate behavior problems in the future.
Since January is the time for New Year’s resolutions, it is the perfect time for the dog owners of Asheville and those who may be considering getting a dog, to learn about the importance of training for your pet. The APDT website has a wealth of helpful information for pet owners at http://www.apdt.com/petowners. APDT’s other sites, http://www.trainyourdogmonth.com and www.mydoghasclass.com have additional tips and resources for dog owners. APDT and its over 6,000 member trainers are dedicated to helping keep dogs in homes, in showing dog owners how to fully enjoy and have fun with their dogs, and to experience the joys of having a well-trained dog.
— Jenny White
Asheville
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