March 2026 Newsletter
Daycare: What We’ve Learned
Balancing human needs (convenience, cost), dog needs (appropriate, varied stimulation), and staff needs (hours, ratios, wages, education) isn’t simple — but it matters deeply to us.
Over the past month or so, we’ve researched different daycare models and refined our structure. As a training business first, daycare isn’t about profit — it’s about providing meaningful support for our clients. Dogs attend for many reasons: separation anxiety, barking when alone, high social needs, big exercise requirements, and more. We want to truly know each dog and their “why.”
Your dog’s day includes intentional enrichment blocks like agility, scent work, and skill-building — offering individualized attention so they return to play fulfilled. We also track natural rest rhythms and build in restorative rest periods that are truly restful, not just forced downtime.
What truly sets us apart is our team. We intentionally hire and educate staff who align with A Dog’s Tale’s core values: creating a non-judgmental space, offering supportive guidance, and believing that everyone — humans and dogs alike — is doing the best they can.
We love our staff. They make this all possible.
Alysha with Millie & Sydney during Puppy Day School
Leah with Hazel & Sasha during Daycare
Upcoming Classes
Big Feelings Club
Sundays at 11:30 am and 1 pm, and Mondays at 4:30 pm
Orientation Monday, March 9th at 4:30
4 weeks - $420 or 6 weeks - $550
Puppy & Teenage Manners Class
Tuesdays starting 3/24 at 6 pm
6 weeks, $175
Leash Manners & Polite Greetings (Level 2) Class
Wednesdays starting 4/8 at 6pm
5 weeks, $145
Kenzie with Porter during Daycare
Reminders & Updates
Spring Break is Almost Here!
Email us now to reserve your dates — our Wellness Boarding is filling quickly. Reserve dates here.
Behavior Clubs Are Getting a Refresh
We’re currently revamping our behavior clubs, with updates coming soon for:
Big Feelings Club
Stranger Danger
Success at the Vet
We’re also developing a client support group — a safe space for guardians to share, listen, and build community together.
Stay tuned for more details!
Alisha with Monty & Millie during Daycare
Geroge with Frank during Daycare
Sydney with Sydney during Puppy Day School
March Client Highlight: Dallas
When Dallas’ guardian first reached out inquiring about our Big Feelings Club program, we were excited to get them enrolled right away! Despite some winter weather curveballs (and a few rescheduled dates), their family was incredibly flexible and committed every step of the way.
Over the course of Dallas’ four sessions in Big Feelings Club, we focused on reactivity around other dogs and people. With the cold temps pushing us indoors at times, we were also able to incorporate startles and sudden environmental changes into our work, which turned into such valuable learning opportunities. It was especially meaningful getting into the groove of our reactivity work in our new indoor space, since this program is something our entire team cares so deeply about.
Team Dallas showed up ready to do the work — and it showed. The progress we saw was something to be so proud of!
And they’re not stopping there! They’re now pursuing shaping and trick training and may even test for Dallas’ Novice Trick Dog title. (We can test virtually, so they can record a video at home and send it in for evaluation!)
A huge congratulations to recent graduate Team Dallas — we are so proud of this team and can’t wait to see what they accomplish next!
Team Dallas
Team Dallas
February 2026 Newsletter
What a month January was! New spaces, new services, new staff—so much new. We won’t be shy or sugarcoat it: we’ll be vulnerable. Change is hard. This transition has come with both high highs and low lows, filled with late nights and long days.
As a dog training business, adding a daycare service means navigating a lot of hoops. Our main goal has always been—and will continue to be—creating something that is fulfilling and sustainable for our staff, the dogs, and their guardians, without ever sacrificing quality, ethics, or welfare.
Daycare isn’t for every dog. Each dog is an individual with their own preferences and needs—just like us. At the same time, we also acknowledge the very real human need for daycare services: reliable drop-off care while you work, support for dogs with separation anxiety, or simply helping create a tired, fulfilled dog at the end of the day.
This month’s recurring themes have been: if you’re not doing it, it’s not doable; and asking ourselves what we can trial and evaluate to make this work better—for us and for the dogs in our care.
Consider this our PSA: we’re all human. Life is hard. Change is constant (and often frustrating). Thank you for your continued support. We truly appreciate you and your dogs. Give them an extra hug and kiss from us.
Upcoming Classes
Puppy Manners Class
Mondays starting 2/23 | 5 pm
6 weeks | $175
Leash Manners & Polite Greetings Class
Thursdays starting 2/26 | 7 pm
5 weeks | $145
AKC CGC Class
ondays starting 2/23 | 7 pm
5 weeks | $145
Dog Aware
Thursdays starting 2/26 | 6 pm
4 weeks | $120
Basic Manners Class
Mondays starting 2/23 | 6 pm
6 weeks | $175
Service Updates
This month, we rolled out classes in our new space, began offering daycare, and saw a surge in Day Training as a popular add-on service! We also finished our new boarding suites and worked with countless amazing dogs and guardians through private training, Big Feelings Club, and group classes.
We truly have a service for every dog–guardian team! We’d love to chat and discuss how we can support you—whether that’s manners training, daycare, boarding, classes, or another service.
Call or email us using the contact info below, or DM us on social media!
February Client Highlight: Sasha
Sasha’s guardians reached out before adoption while they were looking for a canine companion. We met privately to discuss their wants and needs and reviewed many adoptable dogs together. After weeks of searching, Sasha was the one.
Her guardians had already scheduled private sessions so we could proactively set Sasha up for success in her forever home. They truly did everything to ensure the transition was smooth—even reaching out with observations and concerns so we could manage and address things before they became issues.
These clients are the definition of proactive and what it looks like to set a dog up for success. Sasha is also enrolled in our Leash Manners and Polite Greetings class and joins us for daycare!
We love guardians who are all about doing the absolute best for their dogs.
January 2026 Newsletter
It’s been a wonderful year, and we are so deeply grateful for the dogs and families—both returning and new—who have supported us every step of the way. This past year brought growth, transition, and change, and through it all, your trust, patience, and kindness meant more to us than we can say.
While our services continue to grow, one thing hasn’t changed—our commitment to thoughtful, humane, relationship-based care for every dog who walks through our doors.
Change isn’t always easy, and we are endlessly thankful for the grace you’ve shown us along the way. We’re so excited to continue supporting our long-time families while also welcoming new faces into our community. Watching your dogs grow, learn, and thrive alongside you is truly the heart of what we do.
Thank you for trusting us with your four-legged family members. We can’t wait for all that’s ahead.
With love,
A Dog’s Tale Team 🐾
George assisting with puppy play at Puppy Night School.
Alysha coaching at a Private Training session.
Our classes will now be held at a brand-new location!
We’re also excited to introduce Daycare! 🐾
Join us for a Daycare Orientation on 1/18 from 1:00–2:30 PM to learn about our wellness-focused approach, ask questions, and see if daycare is the right fit for your dog.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your pups into this next chapter—new space, new services, same heart. 💛
Class Schedule:
Basic Manners Classes
Mondays starting 1/12 | 7 pm
6 weeks | $175
AKC Trick Dog and Leash Manners & Polite Greetings
Thursdays starting 1/15 | 6 and 7 pm
5 weeks | $145
Nail Care Class
Tuesdays starting 1/13 | 6 pm
5 weeks | $145
Recall Class
Wednesdays starting 1/14 | 6 pm
5 weeks | $145
Puppy, Junior Handler, and AKC CGC Classes
Mondays starting 2/23 |5, 6 and 7 pm
6 weeks | $175 & 5 weeks | $145
Dog Aware and Flight Training Classes
Thursdays starting 2/26 | 6 & 7 pm
4 weeks | $120
Jada taking Luna on a field trip to Theisen’s!
Sydney training Buddy at Theisen’s.
January Client Highlight: Team Brewer
Brewer’s family reached out in early September 2025 as they prepared to bring home their puppy later that month. They wanted to start off on the right paw, so we began with an initial private session to build a strong foundation. From there, Brewer joined our Puppy Manners class and attended socials to continue developing confidence and appropriate social skills.
After completing class, the family chose to pursue additional private training with Sydney to fine-tune key skills, including polite greetings, leash manners, place training, and more. Alysha has also worked closely with Brewer during classes and socials, and even stepped in as our “new person” while the family practiced our in-home polite greetings protocol that we’re piloting for super-exuberant greeters.
This dedicated team is now signed up for our January Leash Manners class to further strengthen Brewer’s skills around distractions. Their ultimate goal? A true go-anywhere, do-anything dog—and Brewer is well on his way!
December 2025 Newsletter
As we wrap up 2025, we want to say thank you. This year has been full of growth, learning, and so many incredible dogs (and humans!). We’re truly grateful for your trust, your support, your referrals, and your commitment to your dogs. Through life’s curveballs and chaos, we see how hard you work to show up for your pups—and we’re honored to be part of your team. You and your dogs are the heart of A Dog’s Tale. 💛
The holidays bring joy, but also stress and shifting schedules. A gentle reminder:
• It’s okay to need support.
• It’s okay to adjust goals.
• It’s okay to take things one day at a time.
Training isn’t about perfection—it’s about trust, connection, and helping dogs feel safe in an unpredictable world. We’re here for you and your pup, always.
We’re excited for more classes & socials, and a few surprises coming in the new year. Big things are ahead, and we’re so grateful to be on this journey with you. Stay cozy, stay safe, and give your pups an extra snuggle from us.
With gratitude,
The A Dog’s Tale Team
George, Jada, Alysha, Shelbie, and Caitlin
Upcoming Classes
Puppy, Teenage, and Basic Manners Classes
Mondays starting 1/5 | 5, 6, and 7 pm
6 weeks | $175
AKC Trick Dog and Leash Manners & Polite Greetings
Thursdays starting 1/8 | 6 and 7 pm
5 weeks | $145
Nail Care Class
Tuesdays starting 1/13 | 6 pm
5 weeks | $145
Recall Class
Wednesdays starting 1/7 | 6 pm
5 weeks | $145
Reminders
📅 Don’t Forget to Book Pet Sitting & Wellness Boarding
Holiday travel is here! If you need pet sitting or wellness boarding, now is the time to reserve your spot. We want to make sure your pups are safe, relaxed, and supported while you’re away—spaces fill quickly, so book early!
🐾 Something New for Our Existing Clients…
We’re working on a special perk for our current A Dog’s Tale families...a chance to stop in, say hi, practice skills, let your dog explore a new environment...More details coming soon. Trust us, you’re going to love it.
November Client Highlight: Onix
Team Onix has been with us through such an incredible journey, and we are endlessly proud of how far this boy has come. From his very first Teenage Manners class back in 2023 to custom day training and Stay & Train, Team Onix has shown heart, grit, and the kind of growth that inspires our whole team. He’s tackled Leash Manners, Polite Greetings, Recall, Teenage Summer Camp, Adventure Camp, and most recently graduated from Big Feelings Club—one of his biggest achievements yet. Along the way, he’s participated in private training, wellness boarding, and even veterinary collaboration to support him from every angle. Watching Onix and his family commit to the work, show up with consistency, and celebrate every win has been an honor. We’re so grateful to be part of his story, and we can’t wait to see what this incredible team accomplishes next.
November 2025 Newsletter
As we head into the season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to say thank you. Your trust in us, your dedication to your dogs, and your continued support mean the world. Watching your dogs grow and learn brings us so much joy — and we’re so grateful to be part of your journey.
🦃 Holiday Prep Tips for a Safe & Stress-Free Thanksgiving
Managing counter-surfing and food safety
Keep tempting dishes out of reach and remind family members not to leave food unattended on counters or tables. Turkey bones, fatty foods, and rich gravies can cause digestive upset or even serious medical issues — so it’s best to keep those tasty treats for humans only!
Setting up a calm space during gatherings
Holiday get-togethers can be exciting (and overwhelming) for dogs. Create a cozy retreat with their bed, water, and a special chew or stuffed Kong. This helps them decompress and stay relaxed while guests come and go.
Toxic food reminders
Be mindful of foods that are unsafe for dogs — like onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners (xylitol). When in doubt, stick to dog-safe treats or plain cooked veggies like green beans or carrots.
How to politely tell guests not to feed the dog
It’s okay to set boundaries! Try a friendly reminder like:
“We’re keeping [dog’s name] on their normal diet to avoid tummy troubles, but they’d love some extra pets instead!”
Having a bowl of dog treats available that you provide can also redirect well-meaning guests who just want to share the love.
Caitlin, Jada, Sydney, Alysha, George, & Shelbie
Team Shelbie & Millie at Pit Bull Power Hour Class
Staff Gratitude Spotlight
💛 “I am grateful to be part of such a supportive and awe-inspiring team. Each day with them brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and laugh together!” — Jada
💚 “I am grateful for a team that shows up with heart every day!” — Alysha
💙 “I am grateful to be part of each client’s support team. It’s an honor to be a piece of their journey together!” — Sydney
Upcoming Classes
Puppy Night School
Mon & Thu | 4:30–8 PM | 5 active weeks | $325/week
Save money and skip the guesswork — everything you need is included!
Your enrollment covers a harness, treat pouch, clicker, and three 60-minute coaching sessions to help you and your pup start off right.
👉 Enroll now to build confidence, connection, and great habits from the start!
November Client Highlight: Ninja & Salami
We’re celebrating two very special brothers this month — Ninja and Salami!
Ninja first joined us for private training, where his clever mind and big heart quickly won everyone over. He then participated in our very first Big Feelings Club (BFC) pilot program and has since become an active BFC alumni, helping new doggos build confidence and good manners through his calm, friendly presence.
Over time, we’ve continued to support Ninja and Salami through private training, wellness boarding, and continued skill-building sessions. Ninja graduated from the BFC program in February 2024 and completed his first group class — Leash Manners & Polite Greetings— in September 2025!
Not to be outdone, Salami recently graduated from his Stranger Danger private sessions in October 2025, gaining confidence and comfort around new people while continuing to shine in his home training.
We’re so proud of how far both boys (and their dedicated humans!) have come on their training journey. It’s been such a joy to watch Ninja and Salami grow into confident, well-rounded pups who are a wonderful example of teamwork, patience, and progress.
Team Salami
Team Ninja
October 2025 Newsletter
It all begins with an idea.
Thank you for your continued trust in our services and for your flexibility through all the bends and flows of this year. This summer we welcomed a new certified trainer to our team, expanded our service offerings, and kept busy with lots of stay-and-trains! We’re so excited to continue growing and training alongside you and your dogs.
🎃 Halloween Reminder
Halloween can be a tricky time for our pups. Here are a few tips to keep them safe and comfortable:
Spooky décor on walks: Decorations in neighborhoods and dog-friendly stores can be scary. Bring treats and pair them with praise when your dog encounters something spooky. Give them space and adjust walking routes as needed.
Trick-or-treaters: Even the friendliest dog can be startled by costumes and masks. The safest place for dogs during trick-or-treating is at home. For pups with big feelings, try closing blinds, turning on white noise or music, and offering a special chew or stuffed Kong in a secure space.
Need a plan tailored for your dog? We’re here to help!
Alysha and Jada at The Neenah Animal Shelter’s 15th Annual Furry Flurry!
Sydney, Alysha, and Jada at Green Lake Animal Shelter’s 24th Annual Dog Walk & Festival!
Upcoming Classes
Big Feelings Club
Tue 10/7 at 4:30 | 4 or 6 week options | email to regsister!
Leash Manners & Polite Greetings
In-person & Virtual options
Sat 10/11 at 5 | 5 weeks | $145
Teenage Manners
Tue 10/7 at 6 & Thu 10/9 at 6 (full, on waitlist) | 6 weeks | $175
Pit Bull Power Hour
Tue 10/7 at 7 (full)
Email to join the waitlist
AKC Canine Good Citizen
Sat 10/11 at 4 | 5 weeks | $145
Includes CGC test fee!
Puppy & Teenage Socials
Sat 10/11 at 6 & 7 | biweekly | $20
Free for actively enrolled pups!
Reminders
Dogs & Toddlers Workshop
📅 Sat 10/11 | 10 – Noon
📍 Ripon Public Library
💲 Free Event!
Learn proactive strategies and information to help families navigate common challenges when raising dogs and toddlers together. Content is designed for parents, grandparents, professionals, and more! Child supervision is available in the library’s Romper Room.
Reserve services for the Holidays!
In-home pet sitting, wellness boarding, and Stay & Train
October Client Highlight: Anchor
Anchor first started working with us back in 2021. He completed a couple of classes, and we also did a dog-dog assessment with our late staff dog, Zoey — the two quickly became pals!
In November of 2024, Anchor’s family noticed some new behavior concerns. They reached out for support, and we promptly set Team Anchor up with a consultation and a private training package to address some of his big feelings.
Fast forward to this summer, his family contacted us again for additional guidance navigating some tricky situations. Anchor enrolled in our Big Feelings Skill Building program — designed for clients who need touch-ups or extra reactivity practice.
Anchor’s primary focus has been big-dog–directed reactivity, and he’s been making incredible progress! One of our biggest goals is to ensure families know that we’re ALWAYS here for them — whether it’s new challenges, old concerns, or just questions along the way.
We are dog trainers for a dog’s lifetime. Thank you to Anchor’s family for trusting us once again and knowing who to call when they needed support. We’re honored to help, no matter how much time has passed!
Anchor
Team Zoey & Team Anchor