Thursday was the fourth day of camp. The campers came in and cleaned their dog’s crates before sitting down at the table.

Then the campers took their dogs out to the grass strip to continue working on loose leash walking and get them some morning exercise. The dogs were able to experience the light rain while the campers worked with them.

Once back in the barn, campers took turns bringing their dogs out and learning how to play with them.

Each dog prefers something a little different, whether it be tug, hide and seek, chasing, physical touch, etc. The campers were able to work and have fun with their dogs, allowing them to loosen up a bit and enjoy quality time together.

Next was the campers' first outing with their dogs! It was time to go to Home Depot and take what they had been learning in the classroom to a real world situation, a store. 

This is a less controlled environment where more objects and distractions come into play. The campers let their dogs explore the garden section before going inside where the spacing was tighter, and they had to walk in a line. This was also a chance to get some exposure for the dogs, as we all want them to find good loving homes.

Our next stop was Avalon Marketplace for lunch. The campers were spread out with their dogs and this was another chance to get these pups seen.

People could stop by and talk to each camper or whoever had a dog they were possibly interested in. When everyone was done with lunch, the campers took their dogs for a short walk through Avalon. We stopped at a pretty fountain and everybody got their picture taken with their dog.

Then it was time to go back to the barn because the campers were going to do some yoga! This was a relaxing time for the campers while their dogs got some rest after their exciting excursions in the morning. The campers got to stretch their muscles and work on their breathing.

After yoga, the campers got their dogs out for their first long line session. This is transferring everything they have been doing with loose leash, to a long line just dragging by the dog's side. Driving and keeping their dog's attention on them was very important in this exercise. 

After a good session, the campers brought their dogs back inside, and it was time for a fun trip: 7-11

Since it was free Slurpee day, the campers hopped on the bus, and we all got to go to 7-11 to get a nice refreshing treat on a hot day

Once we were back at the barn, it was time for the campers to make their “Adopt Me” bandanas for Friday's outing. The campers got to decorate the bandanas any way they wanted to and their dogs would wear them in upcoming trips!

Finally, when the campers were done with their bandanas, they got to play a few games until their parents showed up, and then it was time to go home.

And that was a wrap for another great day at camp!

Ayla

Camp Volunteer