The Animal Behavior Program at The San Francisco SPCA helps pet owners understand and improve their pet's behavior. Each year, thousands of pets and people benefit from this comprehensive program, which provides a troubleshooting Help Line, classes for Bay Area residents, and individualized services for animals in our Shelter.
Animal Behavior Help Line
Most of the things pets do we humans find endearing and amusing. But some dog and cat activities -- whether it's chewing up your favorite pair of shoes or answering nature's call in the wrong place -- don't go over quite so well.
To correct these behavior problems in the home, so that frustrated owners don't feel compelled to surrender their pets to animal shelters, The San Francisco SPCA has installed an Animal Behavior Help Line.
The Help Line offers pet owners step-by-step instructions on how to modify behaviors such as barking, furniture scratching, digging, house soiling and biting. And best of all, it's free! Just call (415) 554-3075.
Behavior Classes
The Animal Behavior Program also offers practical, informative classes to help pet owners understand and communicate with their pets.
Dog Behavior Seminars
The Animal Behavior Program periodically offers behavior seminars that are tailored to the wants and needs of the participants. For more information or to register, call (415) 522-3565.
Cat Behavior Classes
SFSPCA cat behaviorists lead a monthly class for anyone having problems with their cat's behavior. Feline mysteries, motivations, and misconceptions are discussed, as well as the rights and wrongs of cat training. Held the last Saturday of each month. For more information or to register, call (415) 522-3525
Training
Adult Dogs
Adult dog owners can "bone up" on canine behavior and etiquette at The SF/SPCA's ongoing five-week Dog Training Classes. Participants receive a crash course in dog psychology, basic dog obedience and handling. For more information or to register, call (415) 522-3509 or click here.
Puppies
Periodic 6-week-long puppy classes focus on socialization and basic obedience training. To register or for more information, call (415) 522-3509 or click here.
Online Dog Behavior and Training Library
Private vs. Group Counseling
SF/SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers Alumni Referral List
Adoption Center Assistance
In addition to helping ensure that people and pets of the community coexist harmoniously, the Animal Behavior Program works to refine the manners of the homeless animals in The SF/SPCA Maddie's Pet Adoption Center. Volunteer animal behaviorists, dog walkers, and dog and cat socializers work with each canine and feline to encourage desirable behaviors, enhance their adoptability, and simply make their stay at the Adoption Center a more pleasant one.
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