There are some events coming in the near future I would like to share with you. The first event is a free dog care and training lecture at Sebastian Animal Hospital. Dr J. Jeffery Slade will give a short talk on veterinary essentials for dogs. That will be followed by a longer talk by me about dog training. I will discuss how some simple training can enhance the relationship you have with your dog. There will be some demo dogs for your enjoyment. There will be a question and answer session after the lecture. This seminar is Thursday, October 1 at 7 PM.

Another event that has always intrigued me is a Blessing of the Animals. I was not familiar with the reason or history behind the Blessings, all thought they seem to occur fairly often and are quite popular.

The Blessing of the Animals is held as a remembrance for St Francis of Assisi and his love for all animals. There is a traditional prayer and the animal is sprinkled with holy water. St Francis was a man ahead of his time. He felt animals have souls and deserve to be treated with dignity. The blessing is at St. Mark's Anglican Church at 1 PM on October 11. The will be light refreshments and a social after the blessing. It is not clear if the refreshments are for pets or humans! Contact Janice Johnston at Scooters Barkery for details.

The other event I am really excited about is a new class I am offering. Canine Freestyle combines heelwork and obedience with music and choreography to create a great training routine. This is some times called Dancing with Dogs. There are many videos on You Tube. Here is a link to some videos by breed. http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=danzindog&view=playlists One freestyler appeared on Americas Got talent during the most recent season.

This class puts the fun back in to your training. You can choreograph for individuals or you can practice in groups. I had fifteen on the floor simultaneously at one seminar. Some friends and I have developed a routine for four dog and handler teams, a quadrille, if you will. It has been great fun to practice and a good excuse to socialize. I am working on a number for myself with my dog too.

Any dog or person can participate in this type of training. You do not need to be really athletic, nor does your dog. You can practice individual elements indoors in your living room. You can pick music that appeals to you and your dog. I used to think canine freestyle was hokey. Ok, so maybe it is, but it is fun and challenging too.

Cissy Sumner of Best Behavior Dog Training is Vero's first Certified Professional Dog Trainer. If you have a question about training or behavior, email Cissy at www.bestbehaviordogtraining.org. Please include your hometown.