Dogs & Storks™ is the first national pre baby program where dogs are the focus. Answering the call of many new parents, this program sets the groundwork for success, through education, before baby arrives.
Washington, D.C. – Thousands of Families nationwide have benefited from this great programs information. We are exited and proud to bring Dogs & Storks™ to Washington, D.C. and Maryland.
Dogs & Storks™ provides expecting families with practical education and support during pregnancy, to increase safety and decrease concerns many new parents have about the family dog. Once the new baby enters the home and sleep deprivation adds to the many concerns about the family dog, many families feel helpless and overwhelmed. Too many dogs loose their homes during these times. Fortunately for expecting parents in Washington D.C. and Maryland we are now here to help.
Jennifer Shryock, a certified dog behavior consultant, created the program in 2002. Her background in special education, dog rescue and motherhood lead her to developing Dogs & Storks™. Since the program’s inception in Shryock’s native North Carolina, Dogs & Storks™ has recruited a select number of highly qualified canine behavior specialists to take this vital service to the public nationwide. Hedda Garland, owner of School of Dogs, LLC, is the latest addition and only presenter to the program in Washington D.C. and Maryland.
“I am excited that Jennifer has accepted me as a Dogs & Storks™ presenter” Garland states. “I have been offering dog training and behavior modification in Washington D.C. and Maryland for a number of years. Often dog behavior issues have already started, by the time I get involved. Now, with Dogs & Storks™ I can offer positive and gentle methods as preventative, to allow the new families for a smoother transition into new life with dog and precious baby.” Shryock agrees, “We want to make education available even before families know they need it."
Some of the most frequently asked questions are:
“How should we introduce our baby to the dog?”
“Will my dog be jealous and take it out on the baby?”
“What if he won’t accept the baby?”
Some comments from new parents that indicate the need for education:
“He just knows the baby is ours and he protects him.”
“He is the first one to run when the baby cries…it is so cute.”
“We were told to put the baby on the floor and let the dogs sniff him.”
The last one is the most alarming that prompted Shryock, who resides in North Carolina with husband, 4 kids and 5 dogs, to create a team of qualified professionals to present this specialized program in communities all over the United States.
Dogs & Storks™ provides practical education during pregnancy and continued support after baby’s arrival, by licensed presenters. Education is available through workshops and private consultations.
Upcoming workshops: February 7th, 3:00 – 5:00 pm, Potomac Community Center and March 20th, 3:00 – 5:00 pm, Potomac Community Center. Workshops are being held without dogs. To sign up contact heddagarland@
For more information on positive reinforcement dog training or the Dogs & Storks program, visit www.schoolofdogs.com or www.dogsandstorks.com
For direct information or to schedule an appointment with Hedda Garland, call 202-363-2310 or e-mail heddagarland@
