A SERIES of free workshops aimed at helping dogs cope with busy environments are being held at a Cumbrian pet food store.

The sessions at WCF Pet & Equestrian in Penrith are designed to ensure that dogs feel comfortable when visiting shops, pubs and other public places with their owners.

Led by professional dog trainer Jen Cartmel of Clever Dogs, the after-hours in-store sessions include training techniques and tips for dogs and their owners.

Nicky Mason, store manager at the WCF Pet & Equestrian store on Brunswick Road, said: “With the number of dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, shops and tourist attractions increasing over the past few years, more dog owners than ever are taking their pets with them when they go out for a meal or for some shopping. 

“It’s important that dogs feel comfortable in a busy human world and these sessions are designed to give both dog owners and their pets an opportunity to safely practice what could potentially be difficult scenarios when they are out and about in town.”

The 90-minute socialisation workshops include dog-friendly exercises such as calmly entering the store for a ‘meet and greet’ with the team; quietly sitting or laying and waiting; and standing while being measured and fitted for harnesses, buoyancy aids or drying coats, as well as being weighed.

There is also a test of recall by venturing down an aisle of temptation filled with dog treats and toys.

The workshops are being held on Thursday, May 30; Wednesday, June 5; Thursday, June 13 and Friday, June 21 at 6.30pm. All dogs taking part in the sessions get a free goody bag to take home.

Contact the Penrith store on 01768 862207 or call into the store for more information. Limited places available.

WCF Pet & Equestrian operates eight stores across the North of England and south-west Scotland offering a range of products and advice for pet owners and the rural community, with its products also available online and via Amazon.