Puppy School

Puppy school at our Hastings clinic is the perfect start for your new pup and an invaluable resource for new pet owners. Led by experienced vet nurse Sally Pompei, who has run the program since 2016, the classes offer a controlled, clean, and safe environment for your puppy to meet other dogs. More importantly, puppy school is about educating you as much as your puppy, providing you with essential skills and insights for raising and training your new companion.

Early socialisation is crucial for your puppy’s development. The critical socialisation period, from 3 to 14 weeks, is when puppies are most receptive to new experiences, environments, and animals. Proper socialisation during this time can prevent future behavioural issues like anxiety, fearfulness, and aggression. By exposing your puppy to different sights, sounds, and other dogs in a safe setting, you help them build confidence and positive associations, ensuring they grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.

Puppy preschool runs on weeknights at 7:30pm and is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the bond with your new pet while learning valuable training techniques. Sally, who has completed a dog behaviour and training course, brings years of experience to the classes, helping owners address challenges and socialise their dogs effectively. Whether it's your first puppy or you've had dogs before, this class provides both you and your pup with the best possible start.