Private Lessons & Intensive Weekends

What to Bring & What to Expect

Arrival Instructions (Please Read Carefully)

🚫 Do NOT use the driveway.

➡️ Drive past the driveway and continue until you see the double gates.

➡️ Beyond the gates, you will see the training field — this is where you should park and meet your trainer. You will park INSIDE our fenceline. There is a portapotty available.

Please arrive with a vehicle crate that is not a wire crate.

This helps prevent congestion, keeps dogs calm on arrival, and maintains a safe training environment.

What to Bring to Training

Hotels & Dining Recommendations

Required Equipment

  • 5-foot leather leash ONLY
    (No retractable leashes, slip leads, bungee leashes, or long lines unless instructed in advance)

  • Prong collar (3.2mm recommended for most medium–large dogs)
    A prong collar is a communication tool, not a punishment device. When properly fitted and used, it allows for clear, consistent feedback and helps dogs understand expectations without excessive force.
    👉 If you are unsure how to properly fit or use a prong collar, your trainer will assist you during the session.

Recommended to Bring

  • High-value rewards (food and/or toys appropriate for your dog)

  • Dog training gear you already own (collars, harnesses, toys, etc.)

  • Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing on grass and uneven terrain

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

  • Chair(s) for rest periods or instruction time

  • Notebook or phone for taking notes

Recommended Training Gear & Reward Resources

If you’d like to purchase equipment ahead of time, the following vendors are trusted and recommended:

  • Bridgeport K9 Equipment

  • Ray Allen K9

  • Horton’s K9

  • Leerburg

These companies carry quality leashes, collars, rewards, and training tools suitable for both pet dogs and high-drive dogs.

Summer Weather Expectations ☀️

During warmer months, owner participation in cooling management is required.

Please bring:

  • Fresh water bowls

  • Extra water

  • Cooling mats

  • Fans or portable cooling solutions if applicable

Training sessions include breaks, but it is the owner’s responsibility to ensure their dog can safely cool down between working periods.

What to Expect During Private Lessons

Private lessons are structured, hands-on, and educational. Sessions focus on:

  • Teaching the dog and coaching the handler

  • Clear communication and handling skills

  • Real-world application, not just drills

  • Building long-term understanding and consistency

This is an active learning environment. You should expect to be involved, ask questions, and practice skills during the session.

Private Lesson

Intensive Weekends

(Saturday & Sunday)

For intensive weekend clients:

  • Training occurs across both days

  • Scheduled breaks are built in for both dog and handler

  • Downtime allows for rest, hydration, cooling, and mental decompression

  • Instruction continues throughout the weekend with adjustments based on dog and handler needs

Dining Options Near Homosassa, FL

If you are attending an intensive weekend, there are several nearby options for meals during breaks:

Drive-Thru / Quick Options

  • McDonald’s

  • Chick-fil-A

  • Taco Bell

  • Starbucks

Pet-Friendly or Casual Dining

  • The Freezer Tiki Bar (outdoor, casual)

  • Crump’s Landing (outdoor seating available)

  • Sugarmill Restaurant

  • Cody’s Original Roadhouse

Pet-Friendly Hotel Recommendations

Lecanto, FL

  • Holiday Inn Express – Lecanto (pet friendly)

  • Quality Inn – Lecanto (pet friendly)

Homosassa, FL

  • Bella Oasis Hotel (call ahead for pet policy)

  • Rodeway Inn – Homosassa (pet friendly)

Always confirm current pet policies directly with the hotel prior to booking.

Final Reminder

Preparation helps maximize your training time. Coming equipped, informed, and ready to work allows us to focus on what matters most — clear communication, effective training, and long-term success.

If you have any questions before your session, please reach out in advance.