Lulu Tries Out Yet Another Training Class

More than a few dog trainers have labeled me “willful” or "stubborn." I consider myself a free thinker. But I had to bring my A-game while visiting a dog training class last weekend.

My Mom volunteers with the Humane Society of the United States. As part of their effort to end dogfighting, the HSUS has established training programs in cities known for participating in this vicious crime. The goal is to build a stronger bond between dogs and owners thorugh free training classes in agility and obedience. This year, training courses take place at a facility on the West side. When Mom suggested that I tag along, it sounded like a fun idea. Little did I know that it was a set-up.

As soon as we arrived, I bumped into Kate Jackson, my old teacher from Jabula Dog Academy in Decatur. Miss Kate taught me the joys of agility training, and I love her for that. Agility training was much more fun than the e-collar experience. (Fortunately, the reign of electronic terror ended pretty quickly.) I was excited to work with Miss Kate again.

Once class began, I was grouped with some of the slower learners and had to watch as other dogs showed off their command of basic skills. Geez, one social promotion and you are marked for life! Call it pride, or "willfulness," but something clicked inside me and I was determined to show my mastery of those stupid commands, just like the so-called advanced dogs. However I drew the line at “down.”

Call me a snob, I just don’t believe in flopping my belly down on just any old surface. It took three teachers and a packet of hot dogs to help this pooch obey. In the end, I did it for my Mom. In spite of my frequent behavior challenges, she is always in my corner and I didn't want to disappoint her. Besides, Mom does bring home the (grain-free) kibble!

My willfulness backfired when teachers suggested that I return next Saturday — and the Saturday after that. No offense, but my social calendar will be full; I guaranatee it. Here are a few upcoming pet events that you may want to check out, and remember to hug your pooch today — and every day!

• The Humane Event: On Friday, Sept. 23, the Atlanta Humane Society’s 1873 Society Club will host benefit at Summerour Studio to raise money for key outreach efforts. The HEART wagon assists with dogfighting or puppy mill raids and disaster relief efforts. The mobile spay/neuter vehicle helps pet owners in areas that lack easy access to low-cost veterinary services. Both are essential tools that help pets around the region. Get your tickets today.

• Bark in the Park: Why not enjoy baseball with a real hot dog? The Braves’ Park in the Park event offers fun for four-legged fans. Get your tickets before this popular event sells out. 1:35 p.m., Sun., Sept. 4. Don’t forget to share photos with East Atlanta Patch from your day at the park.  

• Paws in the Park: Atlanta Pet Rescue & Adoption focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating homeless pets so that they can find a forever home. On Sunday, Sept. 25, the organization will sponsor an awesome, day-long pet expo and dog walk in Centennial Olympic Park. In addition to cool pet vendors, there will be a walk around the park and plenty of family friendly fun. Register today.  

If you have information about dogfighting in your community, call the HSUS anonymous tip line at 1-877-TIP-HSUS. The organization will pay up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a dogfighter.