The Basic Fee: $30.00 per dog.

To check out the schedule of lessons or to schedule an appointment, look up the herding schedule on the appointments page. It shows the days and times that the farm is open for business. There are also other events listed on that calendar too. For a quick look at just the main events that the farm is hosting for 2007.

To work through the calendar, click on the month you are interested in. Find a time you'd like to come and email me (Mary Lou) at dogwood@iquest.net.

On the days when there are 2 trainers at the farm (Mary Lou and Tammy) we can handle more dogs per day, so there are 2 slots for each hour. When I am the only one at the farm, there is only one slot per hour. If you can work independently and don't need a lesson from a trainer, we can schedule you in at just about any time. Just mention your situation when you email me. I will update the web calendar as often as I can so it will be as current as possible. Please call if you cannot make it for your appointment.(765-427-7009).

So, when you email for appointments, please give me the dates and times you'd like to come herd. (We can schedule as far in advance as the calendar indicates days.) Please, also include a phone number with your request so that I might contact you in case of an emergency.

Please also watch the weather for the Williamsport area. I will put closings or weather warnings on the home page and on the yahoo email list as soon as I can. If you are unsure of the conditions, please don't hesitate to call.

For first timers:
We have discovered that our clients generally have a better learning experience if we schedule appointments for herding instead of just dropping in. You will probably spend only 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! Please make sure your dog is in good health and not excessively overweight. Bring a buckle collar for your dog. All dogs must be leashed - no flexi's please! Also, please clean up after your dogs.

Our Basic Fee is $30.00 per dog

On your first visit to the farm, we will test your dog for herding instinct. Mary Lou or Tammy will take your dog in and work the dog for 10-15 minutes depending on what the dog does. 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 work twice.
Usually, the dogs get to work for 10-20 minutes - then have a break - then work for 10-20 minutes again.

Advanced lessons or sheep rental:
Instruction is tailored to the needs of the client in many ways: Full lessons can be given. Or there are many times when a handler just wants to work on skill building and needs limited help. Or no help is needed and the client just wants to rent sheep. In any case, there will be someone supervising your field to make sure the sheep are working as desired. Please let us know what field you want to work in, and how much instruction you will need.