Southampton-based retailer Healthy Pet Store has launched a scholarship scheme to help owners adopting dogs to access training support.
The scholarship scheme financially supports owners by paying for three hours of one-to-one training for adopted dogs and their caregivers.
Healthy Pet Store managing director Deborah Burrows maintained it is really important for adopted dogs showing early signs of behavioural issues to get the right help they and their caregivers need.
She said: “In the current climate, we understand that not everyone is in a position to be able to access the right support. That is why we have launched our scholarship scheme. We want to help adopted dogs be supported by the right behavioural approach in order to help them live happy and fulfilled lives.
“Adopted dogs sometimes have behavioural problems which pop up post-adoption. This is through no fault of their own, and stems from things such as genetics, their past or illness. It’s important they get support from a trainer or behaviourist skilled in positive reinforcement methods.”
The first canine scholar in the programme is 18-month old German Shepherd Sky, who has been paired with a local behavioural trainer.
Sky’s owners Russell and Ray said: “The scholarship scheme has been absolutely fantastic. It has changed our lives.
“We really struggled with Sky’s behaviour post-adoption and being able to enrol her into these sessions has made her such a happier dog.
“We are so grateful to Deborah and the whole team at Healthy Pet Store. They paired us with an incredible local trainer who has listened to all of our worries and concerns. The sessions have been relaxed, fun and really tailored to what Sky needs. We are going to continue to pay for lessons now we have completed our sessions funded by Healthy Pet Store.”
