Tails & Trails, I've since learned, is actually called Tails ON Trails and it's run by Nassau Veterinary Clinic. The goal is to acclimate your dog to other dogs, people and a variety of situations, reassuring them that you are their source of safety and confidence at all times. Class philosophy is to make every situation as enjoyable for the dogs via positive reinforcement, not scolding or collar correction (although sometimes necessary at first). It's as much about training the people as it is about training dogs. You learn to work as a trusting team.

Classmates get to vote on destinations based on known places that allow the dogs. We loved visiting a dairy farm where the dogs were exposed to each other, livestock and heavy machinery and then a shopping plaza in Valatie where they were exposed to parking lots, shopping carts and people. Most exciting was visiting Empire Plaza during the races on Madison. There were people everywhere and the dogs did so well. Finals, per se, were held at the outlet mall in Lee, Mass. The dogs were required to behave while folks ogled them and allowed to approach only when granted permission to greet. One store allowed them to come in and obey commands while people shopped. There have since been extracurricular swimming and hiking romps organized beyond class.

When I was at Nassau Vet last week, I saw that they were taking sign-ups for the spring class now. Maybe we'll see you there! They also offer another session every fall. (518) 766- 2636