Training Division

Educational Objective

The objective of the Training Division  is to create an environment that is conducive to learning the art of professional pet training. Through use of a balanced mixture of hands on training, lecture and practical experience students will have the opportunity to gain the skill and confidence to become successful pet trainers.

The goal of effective training is to produce a positive relationship between the owner and the dog.  In addition to teaching many facets of dog training, our Academy will teach students valuable people skills.  Training pets is of little value with employment so our Academy will also spend much time teaching you how to apply your pet training skills toward successful employed or even starting your own business.

Each four week segment provides education on how to be effective in the business of training. Students will participate at all levels of the training program to provide them with actual working experience. In addition, students will be taught the basics of marketing, kennel operations, animal health, and how to deal with a range of people – the client and pet owner, the store or kennel manager, veterinarians, support staff, sporting groups, and rescue organizations.

Certification Programs

Canine Obedience – Theory and Application (20 Classes – 160 Contact Hours)

Our four week program will provide you with the knowledge and know how to obedience train dogs and puppies. The course is taught at our state of the art full service pet center and training academy. You receive hands-on training with real dogs and real people.The course will cover such topics as:

• Basic Canine Obedience based upon Positive Training Methods
• Canine Psychology, Behavior and Learning Attributes
• Puppy Selection, Education, and Kindergarten Graduation
• Canine Health & Breed Characteristics
• Introduction to Sporting & Competition Training
• Private lessons & Basic Business Practices

Canine Trainer Program ( 40 Classes – 320 Contact Hours)

Our eight week program will provide you with the know how to effectively train dogs and educate pet owners. Theory is combined with actual experience at our state of the art full service pet center and training academy. You receive hands-on training with real dogs and real people. In addition to covering the topics of the Canine Obedience course, the course will also include:

• Client and Canine Evaluation
• Behavior Identification & Modification Training
• In Kennel Training, Group and Private Lesson Operations
• Training Management & Public Relations
• Introduction to Specific Odor Detection Training
• Introduction to Search & Rescue Training
• Competitive Obedience for AKC, Sporting Events and Agility

Professional Trainer and Behavior Specialist (60 Classes – 480 Contact Hours)

Our comprehensive twelve week program provides you with extensive knowledge and expertise to be a certified professional trainer. All courses are taught at our state of the art full service pet center and training academy. You receive hands-on training with real dogs and real people. In addition to the material covered in the Canine Obedience and Canine Trainer Programs, the following topics will be covered:

• Identification and Correction of Severe Behavior Problems
• Introduction to Protection and Police K-9 Training
• Introduction to Assistance Dog Training
• Advanced Scent  Detection and Certification Requirements
• Kennel Operations and Management
• Public Relations, Legal Issues and Business Practices
• Conducting Public Group Classes and Private Lessons

Meet Your Instructor

Rob Schenberg – Academy Instructor and Training Director

Rob joined Petropolis in 2005 in order to facilitate a superior program based on “Learn and Apply.” He teaches the best dog training methods, along with communication skills and hands-on experience at all levels.

Rob’s “dog business career” began 25 years ago as the owner of a private investigation and surveillance company, utilizing canine services and becoming a professional trainer and behavior analyst. Since 1990, Rob has been a Professional Trade School Program teacher, educator for behavior modification, and instructor for AKC Obedience, Schutzhund titles, and scent detection. He also taught the National Narcotic Detector Dog certification program.

In 1993 Rob established Scentry Solutions, LLC to provide corporate and personal drug searches, protection dog placements, police department training services, and consulting regarding legal issues. In 1999 Rob was one of the founders of American Service Dog Association, a 501©(3) charitable organization, providing a wide range of service dogs to people with disabilities. After serving as head trainer, he continues as a director and provides all certifications. Rob also teaches and presents obedience demonstrations, public education programs, disability awareness, and search and rescue. In addition, he continues to volunteer for presentations on behalf of the Humane Society, numerous schools and television media. Rob is also a member in good standing of the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers).

Testimonials

Rob,
This is just a quick note to let you know how much I appreciate everything you have done for me. I can’t count the number of times you stayed after classes and talked to students, or how many times you gave one-on-one training to anyone who asked. Besides your dog training knowledge, students learn so much about people skills and professionalism from you. Plus, your knowledge about running a business (from group classes and private lessons to running a kennel), is great. For anyone who wants to listen and learn, they can’t ask for a better teacher, someone easy to talk to, or someone more willing to help. Without even realizing it, I have implemented much of what you do and say into my own training business. Thanks for everything.

Sincerely,

Anthony Griffin
Owner, K-9 Konnection