Behavior Helpline & Information
The Behavior Department at the Potter League for Animals helps pet owners understand and improve their pets' behavior. We want to keep dogs and cats in your home and out of our shelter.
Although many dogs and cats lose their homes and families because of 'problem behaviors,' most of these problems can be prevented or solved with some basic lessons in manners or minor training tips.
The Potter League is here to help so that you and your dog or cat can be friends for life. Please consider us Newport County's animal resource center.
Behavior Helpline …
Barking, housetraining, and scratching are common complaints and our specially trained employees and volunteers are available by phone or email to help. Let us help you understand why pets do what they do. Call 401-846-8276 ext.119 or email at helpline@potterleague.org.
Dog Obedience Training Classes…
Dog owners can 'bone up' on basic obedience and etiquette. All of our classes emphasize the importance of positive reinforcement.
For dogs adopted from the Potter League there is a free obedience class every Sunday at 10am. Potter alumnae are encouraged to drop-in at any time to learn the basics or to get a refresher. Join the fun … and the staff is always thrilled to see our adopted dogs again!
The Potter League also offers a large selection of dog training and specialty classes for adult and adolescent dogs and puppies. These classes are open to the general public. Check the Dog Obedience Training Section for details and to learn when the next session begins.
Private Consultation with our Behavior Coordinator…
Private consultations are available either at the Potter League or in your home by Byron Davies, Behavior Coordinator. Byron is a very popular trainer and she has 15 years of experience training and evaluating dogs. In shelter consultation cost $25/½ hour and $50/hour. House calls cost $75/hour.
Potter's Pet University …
Join us for fun classes and tips on a variety of topics including animals care,training and behavior. Classes are normally held from 6:30 to 7:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Check the Calender of Events section of the website for a list of scheduled topics. The classes are free but donations are gratefully accepted.
Head Start… 401-846-8276
Our Behavior Staff also provide an important service to canines that are available for adoption at our shelter: a head start! Young dogs that have not been socialized properly around people or have not received any training prior to arriving at the Potter League can often appear unappealing to prospective adopters. So, to help them learn "good manners" - and to give them the physical and mental stimulation they may need - we give these dogs preliminary obedience lessons. Ask about adopting one of our special HeadStart dogs … or volunteer to train one.
Cats...
Cats are special and intriguing creatures. We realize that cats are often misunderstood and often don't get the same attention as their canine counterparts. Well, that isn't true here at the Potter League. Because we know how important cats are, we hold a monthly workshop called Feline Forum where we spend the hour discussing "all things cat". Get answers to questions about your cat's behavior, nutrition, grooming and much more. Learn about your fascinating feline friend. Feline Forum is a casual, give and take hour. $5 donation per family is requested. Pre-registration is suggested. See Calendar of Events for dates, time and registration info for Feline Forum.
Other…
The Potter League maintains an extensive library of books, articles, internet resources and videos to help solve behavior problems and train dogs and cats effectively. We also have an extensive list of solutions and tips on solving common dog and cat behavior problems. The Potter League's goal is to keep pets and people together.