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Overview

As part of Southpaws Playschool's goal to help dogs become good citizens in their homes and community, we have created Southpaws University, a dynamic and evolving series of classes and seminars to give owners skills to help them better communicate with and care for their pets.

Our purpose is to educate the public about living with dogs. Our goals are: (1) to keep problem dogs from being rehomed and (2) to help all dogs to live a better life. At Southpaws University, our programs are as much about people as about dogs. We realize both people and dogs learn best in an atmosphere that is casual and open to ideas and having fun.



Instructors

Southpaws University is COMPLETELY UNIQUE IN AUSTIN in that instead of employing one or two trainers with the same philosophy, our program is a consortium, where multiple trainers with varying styles (all gentle, proven, dog-centered techniques) offer classes, seminars and private consultations to cover nearly all aspects of canine health, behavior and obedience.

The trainers involved with Southpaws University are experienced, have been well screened and are some of the best and most results-oriented instructors in the area. All are committed to positive training and do not use punitive or compulsory methods.



Southpaws University Instructors:

Cathy Cobb
Austin Dog Sports, LLC
www.austindogsports.com
cathy@austindogsports.com
512-540-2321

Austin Dog Sports

Therese Kopiwoda
Austin Pet First Aid
www.austinpetfirstaid.com
classes@austinpetfirstaid.com
512-586-2328

Austin Pet First Aid

Kim Roche
Kim the Dog Trainer
Dog Trainer—Behavior Consultant
www.kimthedogtrainer.com
kimthedogtrainer@gmail.com
512-796-5783

KTDT

Nicole Vykoukal
Austin Doga
austindoga@gmail.com
512-413-3648

Austin Doga

Sonya Wilson
Southpaws Playschool
info@southpawsplayschool.com
512-440-7529

Southpaws

Susan Wright
Wright Vibes Pet Massage
www.wrightvibespetmassage.com
susan@wrightvibespetmassage.com
512-461-7111

Wright Vibes


NOTE: We are actively seeking individuals with special skills who love to teach dog owners how to better care for their animal companions. If you are interested in teaching a seminar through Southpaws University, please send an outline of your idea to hercules@texas.net. One of our trainers will contact you to arrange a meeting.



Classes



Doga: Yoga with Your Best Friend (each session is 45 minutes) $15.00

Are you looking for a way to bond with your dog? Do you want to stretch, move your body and hang out with fellow dog lovers? Have you ever practiced yoga at home and found your dog gravitated to the mat? Then, Doga is THE class for you! Doga is yoga with your dog! Come hang out with us, stretch, laugh and see your dog smile.

Doga is based on restorative yoga, a calming yoga that focuses on relaxation. This class is appropriate for all socialized dogs and their owners, even if you have never done yoga before.

Nicole Vykoukal     512-413-3648


Everyday Obedience: Level I (7 sessions) $200.00

All dogs should know these five foundation skills:

  • Sit
  • Down
  • Stay
  • Coming When Called
  • Walking on Leash without Pulling

These basic skills can be used in countless ways. Can you imagine a dog who sits politely at the front door instead of bolting out? How about a dog who, instead of begging for scraps, lounges at your feet in a down stay while you drink your morning coffee? Barking, jumping up on people, stealing food and digging in the yard are only a few examples of problems that you will be able to resolve once you understand what motivates your dog and how to communicate with him.

As the weeks go by, your dog's attention span will increase and he will become more able and willing to listen to you--no matter what!

Tuition includes one free half-hour private lesson (a $40 value).

Kim Roche     512-796-5783


Heeling and Position Seminar (1.5 hour seminar) $50.00

A great transition from pet manners class to Rally. Covers the tuck sit, the drop down, the kick-back stand, the right finish, and the left finish. Then join the Novice Rally I class to proof your new skills!

Prereq: basic obedience class

Cathy Cobb     512-540-2321


Heeling Drop In (1 hour) $8.00 per session

There is no charge for students currently enrolled in Austin Dog Sports' Rally classes

The instructor calls patterns at the beginning and end of class and there will be one heeling game or exercise. The remaining time is available for practice and will be distraction-rich (for example: toys, treats, dogs, crates being moved, a "judge" trailing your dog). This class offers limited instruction and is scheduled primarily as a practice and proofing session. This ongoing class is currently available on an as-scheduled basis. See our calendar for dates and times.

Prerequisite: Your dog should be non-reactive to dogs passing within three feet.

Cathy Cobb     512-540-2321


Hiking with Your Dog (7 sessions) $150.00

Going for a long run, hitting the swimming hole and hiking are so much more fun when your dog comes along. Especially here in Austin, there are so many opportunities to get outdoors with your best friend. Don't miss out because your dog isn't 100% reliable.

Have you ever wished that you could--

  • get your dog to drop everything and come running when you call--every time!
  • Take and off-leash hike
  • Go for a neighborhood walk without getting your arms yanked out of their sockets
  • Navigate farmers' markets and crowded sidewalks?

We will challenge our dogs with a number of distractions and find out what really get their attentions. Hiking with Your Dog is one of the best things that you will ever do with and for your dog. Knowing how to come when called could even save her life someday!

The first three classes meet at Southpaws Playschool; classes four through seven will meet at various South Austin locations.

Kim Roche     512-796-5783


Little Dudes and Divas (6 weeks) $175.00

This class is for tiny dogs that rule the roost. Over a six week period, we will work on the THREE R's: remolding your dog's behavior, reprogramming your own thinking patterns, and rebuilding your relationship with your tiny breed dog.

This class is for tiny breed adult dogs that weigh less than 15 pounds.

Class fee includes a treat bag and all training materials. First class session is people only.

Sonya Wilson     512-440-7529


Novice Rally I (5 weeks) $150.00

This beginning Rally Obedience class includes 1/2 of the Rally Novice signs, the rules of AKC Rally, 1 short course each class, and introduction to heel.

Prerequisite: Heeling & Position seminar or instructor evaluation.

Cathy Cobb     512-540-2321


Novice Rally II (5 weeks) $150.00

This class includes the remaining Rally Novice signs, the rules of AKC Rally, 1 mini course each class, and heeling with right and left turns.

Prerequisite: Novice Rally I or instructor approval. Note: If you and your dog are heeling very well together, you can choose to begin with Novice Rally II. Private sessions are available to summarize the Rally I signs; contact us to discuss.

Cathy Cobb     512-540-2321


Play Train Your Puppy (6 weeks) $150

This class is an excellent way to get your dog started the right way in life. During this six week course:

  • Learning is done through play with interruptions for training. Competitions and completion of homework assignments will tell everyone of your wonderful progress with your puppy.
  • You will learn how to get your dog to come, sit, down, stay, and follow you WITHOUT telling your pup "NO" and WITHOUT A LEASH!
  • You will learn how to properly socialize your pup in any human or canine situation.
  • Your puppy will acquire excellent bite inhibition.
  • You will get guidance on how to solve countless "puppy problems".
  • In addition, you will gain invaluable information on how to keep on the training trail once your pup finishes the class.

You will need to commit to reading several articles per week, as well as completing homework assignments with your puppy and socializing your puppy by having him meet new people/dogs every day.
Class is for puppies from 12 to 24 weeks. Puppies must have had two rounds of shots in order to participate in class. CLASS SIZE IS LIMITED!

Sonya Wilson     512-440-7529


Puppy Playschool--for puppies 18 weeks and under (6 sessions) $120.00

Puppyhood is the most important time in your dog's life. In the next few months, he will learn more about himself, people, other dogs and the world outside that he ever will again. This short window of time is your best chance to help him grow into a confident, friendly and trustworthy dog who loves everyone he meets. Give your puppy a great start in life--by following our puppy-raising program. We will teach you everything you wish you already knew, including:

  • The easiest ways to housetrain a puppy
  • How to stop puppy biting
  • How to prevent aggression
  • Tricks to raise a puppy who doesn't jump or pull on leash
  • The right (and wrong) way to socialize your puppy
  • How to curb crazy, wild behavior

Kim Roche     512-796-5783


Rally Drop-In (ongoing) $10.00 each drop-in session

Rally run-throughs, 1-2 courses set up. This ongoing class is currently available on an as-scheduled basis. See our calendar for dates and times.

Cathy Cobb     512-540-2321


Relax Your Dog (6 hours--5 sessions) $120.00

Simple day-to-day living, as well as change, exercise and boredom can cause tension which blocks the natural flow of fluids and energy in your dog's body. The specific, intentional PetMassage(tm) techniques go much farther than simple rubbing and petting. Some of the many benefits are: increased healthy body awareness, increased circulation, reduced muscular tension, increased positive psychological effects in bonding, grieving, anxiety and aggression, and it can show you how to help your dog to better cope with fears from loud noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms.

The class will begin with a 2-hour session to discuss and learn some basic PetMassage(tm) techniques and will continue with four follow-up sessions, 1 hour per week, to practice and fine-tune what you are learning.

PetMassage(tm) is not a substitute for vet care, but can complement it.

Susan Wright     512-461-7111



Classes for Kids/Families


Daycare/Scout/4H Programs

Tailor a program especially for your age group. Class information can include: pet care and nutrition, training, demonstrations, etc. Certified elementary teacher.

Sonya Wilson  512-440-7529


Fun-to-Make Dog Toys $20.00 (one session--1.5 hours)

Make and take class for kids and their parents. You will take home several safe, fun toys for your dog. Your child will also learn how to play dog games safely. All supplies are included in the fee. Ages 8-12.

Sonya Wilson  512-440-7529


Make Art with Your Dog $20.00 (one session--2 hours)

Your child will learn simple obedience commands. These commands will then be used to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. For kids, parents, and dogs. All supplies are included in the fee. Ages 10 and up.

Sonya Wilson  512-440-7529


Safety Around Dogs $5.00 (one session--45 minutes)

This AKC-written course taught by a certified teacher will help your young child deal with meeting new dogs, and teach them what to do in a dangerous situation. Ages 5-8.

Sonya Wilson  512-440-7529


Not all described classes are listed on the current calendar. Some classes are taught intermittently, and some are demand-based. If you are interested in a class that has not been scheduled, please contact the instructor to get more information on when that class will be taught.



Registration Form

Download the Southpaws University Registration Form



Payment options

  • Complete the SU registration form, pay with cash or check
  • Contact the course instructor at the number listed to register for individual classes and arrange payment
  • COMING SOON! Complete online registration form, pay through PayPal