The Upper Ohio Valley Obedience Training Club offers a variety of training courses for dogs and puppies. (Photo Provided)
BELLAIRE — The Upper Ohio Valley Obedience Training Club is trying to keep dogs from being returned to shelters by offering discounted training services for those adopting dogs in the area.
The Bellaire-based club has been helping owners build relationships and communicate with their dogs since the late 1980s. Many dogs trainers at the club have gone on to compete and win titles and ribbons in American Kennel Club performance sports.
The organization started the shelter dog program two years ago, and are trying to spread the word to the community that they can receive discounts for the training sessions.
Classes are typically $75 for a six-week session but shelter dogs are eligible for a 20% discount, making a six-week session $60. Vouchers for the discount are available at animal shelters in Ohio, Marshall and Belmont counties, but any shelter dog in the area is eligible for the discount.
“It’s very, very important to have a trained dog, especially if your dog came from the shelter. We’re having this program so that the dogs don’t end up back in the shelter. That’s our main goal is to have a very trained dog,” Cornell said.
Spokesperson Linda Cornell said the club offers a variety of classes for area dogs and puppies.
“We’re here for the community which is great and anybody that has a dog or puppy that needs training and needs obedience classes, we’re here and we teach all different types of classes. We have regular obedience classes, we have puppy classes,” she said.
The organization recently participated in Warwood’s Fido Fest and they’re hoping to hold more fundraisers throughout the year as well as free seminars in local parks for people who need help with their dogs.
Cornell emphasized that their pricing is lower than chain competitors in the area.
“Once you join our club, the dues are only $40, you get lessons for life for $30 for a six-week class,” she said. “You can’t beat it.”
They also offer certifications for “Canine Good Citizens,” and make referrals for aggressive dogs that need extra support and training.
A variety of classes this session — from puppy training to beginner good manners — will begin on June 3. The organization is asking the community for donations to keep their prices low, which can be made to their PO box 76 Bellaire Ohio 43906.
“We’re the only club in the valley that offers this shelter dog program,” Cornell said.
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