Schedule
Make an Appointment
To schedule a herding lesson, find an open time from the list below and send me your request in an email at the addy: dogwoodfarmherding@gmail.com
Or Click on the 'request for a lesson' below and it will send a direct email to me!
Lesson Fees
Lessons are scheduled on the hour and will last for up to 45 minutes.
Lessons are $50.
(***Cash or Check only please!***)
Please make checks payable to Mary Lou Hayden
For First Timers
Please make sure your dog is in good health and not excessively overweight. Bring a buckle or snap collar for your dog. All dogs must be leashed - no flexi's please!
Also, please clean up after your dogs.
I’ve discovered that students generally have a better learning experience if we schedule appointments for herding instead of just dropping in. You will probably be here about 2 hours (more for multiple dogs). You are always welcome to come early or stay late and watch others work. It can be time well spent and very educational!
On Your First Visit
On your first visit to the farm, we will test your dog for herding instinct. I will take your dog in and work the dog for 10-15 minutes depending on what the dog does. Once we know what your dog understands about herding, then we'll formulate a plan for its education. Herding is a very mentally exhausting sport for your dog, and we have found that one time on your first visit is best. After the first visit then your dog will most likely work twice.
July/August 2020 Appointment Dates
During this time of sheltering in place - UPDATE:
- I plan on keeping the farm open and running whenever the weather cooperates. Its important to keep practicing social distancing! (Which we pretty much already do.)
- NEW CLIENTS: Now that summer is here - i'll start taking new dogs again........ with a couple of new requirements: You'll need a good stay, and a good call off or recall. IN other words, GOOD SELF CONTROL! So please work on those skills with your dog before you schedule an appointment. THANKS!
- Also: New clients....please wear sturdy work shoe to the farm to keep your feet safe. When testing new dogs, I'm usually the person who needs to be in with the sheep and dog to make sure things go well. However, there are times when its necessary for the owner/handler to participate, and if thats the case, you'll definitely want to have on good work boots.
- And one more thing: During the summer - we need to watch how hot it gets. If the heat and humidity get too hot, we'll have to change plans - like herding in the early mornings or late evenings.... Stay tuned...
Sorry - had to change plans for the upcoming weekend. (Sept 5-6) Gotta go to the parents farm for
Weekend of September 12-13 - No Herding - Going to Minnesota for a clinic/vacation!
September 19th - Saturday - Cross your fingers and hope its cool!
- 9:00
- 10:00
- 11:00
- 12:00
- 1:00
- 2:00
September 20th - Sunday - more herding.
- 9:00
- 10:00
- 11:00
- 12:00
- 1:00
- 2:00
2020 Planned Trials for the Dogwood Crew
TBA
- Spring sometime..... : )