Description
Please note that Online Zoom Classes are EXACTLY like in – person classes, in the sense that they are offered live and are not recorded. Please make sure the time works for you. We will not offer refunds for schedule clashes.
Instructor: Denise Gormish
The sport of Scent Work was created so dogs could use their noses in a similar manner as professional drug and bomb detection dogs. The dog searches for a specific hidden odor and the dog alerts the handler that s/he has found the source of the odor. For the dog, the functional use of their noses for searching is fun and challenging.
In class, the dog first learns about a specific (target) odor and then the dog learns to search for it in a variety of contexts. An odor can be anything but for dog sports the odors chosen are specific essential oils. Eventually the odor will be hidden anywhere including interior rooms, exteriors, containers, vehicles or buried in sand or water.
Prerequisites: This class is for continuing students or for those whose dog can search for at least two odors (birch, anise, and clove) and is able to work multiple hides, or alternately have instructor approval
Supplies: Each student must have a birch odor kit and 5 qt colander (like this) or large, wide bowl (only used for Scent Work) for the first day of class.
Space requirements: You will also need a space that has some empty space for container searches for your training. Often if you move some furniture aside for class, there is enough floor space. The camera must be able to show you working in your training space. So the camera would show you, the dog and some floor space to see you work.
Any other questions? Send an email to Denise Gormish at denise@gormish.org
Online Class FAQ
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM AN ONLINE DOG TRAINING CLASS? WHAT IS THE CLASS FORMAT?
- Your instructor (or host) will set up an online classroom using Zoom. Once students enter the classroom and turn on their web camera and microphone, the instructor will be able to see and hear them.
- You will be able to see your instructor perform a demo with her own dog or play a video for you so that you know how to do or perform a task.
- Your instructor will give each student some dedicated time in the class to help you through the material, just as she would in an in-person class.
- Every student in the class will be able to watch one another.
- Each class will be an hour long, but we might run a few minutes over (in case of delays due to weak connections, etc. ).
WHAT WILL YOU NEED TO ATTEND AN ONLINE CLASS?
- A laptop /computer / tablet / phone with a working speaker, microphone and camera.
- A tripod or a stool to place your device.
- Zoom software from https://zoom.us/ installed on your device.
- Your dog, clicker and training treats.
- Notebook to take notes.
- While you don’t need a lot of room, both you and your dog should be able to move around comfortably.
- Minimal Equipment/Props will be needed, and these are mentioned on the class webpage. You can also discuss possible substitutions with your instructor in your first class.
HOW DO I ATTEND THESE CLASSES?
- Our online classes will be conducted using Zoom
- You will be mailed a unique link that will take you to the online classroom at the predetermined time.
- The classroom will be open 5 minutes before class starts, feel free to use these 5 minutes to ensure that your connection is good, you can hear & see the instructor, and that the instructor can see and hear you.
THIS SEEMS COMPLICATED. WILL I BE ABLE TO KEEP UP?
We understand 🙂 All this sounds a lot harder than it really is. The instructors have a lot of experience conducting lessons, as well as being students in other online classes and will be there every step of the way to help you over the technological hump.
CAN I USE MY DROP-IN CARD?
Unfortunately, we are not allowing drop-ins for these online classes. You will need to register for the whole course.
WHAT IS THE REFUND POLICY?
Barring exigent circumstances, and unless we are able to find someone to take your spot, all classes are strictly non-refundable.
