Workshop CANCELLED until further notice
Although we no longer offer the Puplifted workshop, we are still here to support you if you’re struggling with puppy parenthood. Check out our other services for people with young dogs:
Regret to
Relief.
Treats and Triumphs Dog Training: Training and Support for Central Fairfax County Puppy Guardians.
Is Puppy Parenthood Harder Than You Expected?
Are you on edge, overburdened, feeling trapped? These feelings are so common, they have a name: the Puppy Blues.
And we have a solution.
The Puplifted Workshop
For Caregivers with the Puppy Blues
Are you feeling weighed down by puppy parenthood?
Our monthly humans-only workshop is designed to lighten your load with practical and emotional support. Leave your puppy at home, and treat yourself to 90 minutes of breathing room!
Your Educator:
- Kathleen Alvania
- CTC, FPPE, FFCP, CPDT-KA
- Owner of Treats and Triumphs
Every Month Includes:
- Q&A with multi-certified dog trainer
- Brief lecture & discussion on rotating training topics
- Group activities & exercises designed to promote sustainable puppy parenthood
What You'll Learn:
- Solutions to typical puppy problems
- Common misconceptions that can lead to increased stress
- Skills to cope in difficult moments
- Critical socialization information
- How to set realistic expectations
- When & where to reach out for extra help
Get Puplifted!
Would you like a night off from shark teeth, potty breaks, and fluffy mayhem?
When is the workshop?
Puplifted is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6:30-8pm.
Where is the workshop?
Puplifted will take place in an office space near the Braddock Rd exit of 495. You will receive the address when you register.
What does it cost to register?
$35 per participant
Is Puplifted therapy or a support group?
Neither. Puplifted is a professional-led workshop where attendees learn about training and how to cope with puppy parenthood.
Puplifted is not a substitute for therapy.
What if my dog is older than 1 yr?
Reach out via our chat bubble or contact form! Although Puplifted currently caters to the challenges faced by caregivers of young dogs, this month’s topic may be just what you need to help with your adult adoptee.
Are puppies invited?
Puplifted is a puppy-free zone. We want to give participants a break from the nonstop supervision that comes with puppy parenthood. Our location is not appropriate for dogs, so please make other arrangements for your puppy.
Can I bring my friend/relative/child?
Anyone who is a primary caregiver for a dog under 1 year of age and is mature enough to engage as a participant is welcome to register. Because we aim to provide a safe place to address difficult feelings, we request that you not bring unregistered guests.
Do I need to use positive reinforcement to attend?
Treats and Triumphs is unabashedly force-free, and the methods we recommend in the workshop will be too. If you are curious or on-the-fence about R+, you are welcome to attend, learn, and get some support. We ask that participants refrain from promoting aversive methods to other attendees.
Get Puplifted!
Would you like a night off from shark teeth, potty breaks, and fluffy mayhem?
“Do I Have the Puppy Blues?”
Raising a puppy is TOUGH – no doubt about it. It’s common to feel frustrated by “naughty” behaviors, exhausted from lack of sleep, and overwhelmed by responsibilities.
But sometimes these feelings are too much to bear.
They may interfere with your daily life or your ability to bond with your puppy. They may be accompanied by symptoms of depression and anxiety.
You may have the Puppy Blues if you are:
Persistently Angry or Resentful
It’s normal to feel anger sometimes, but being upset with your puppy most of the day is no fun – for you or your puppy.
Worried You Made a Mistake
You may wish you’d never brought your puppy home, or feel trapped because your family is so attached. You may feel ashamed for even having these thoughts.
Neglecting Self-Care
When was the last time you had a moment to yourself – with no puppy tugging at your pants or whining in the background? How long did it take you to think of an answer?
Lonely or Isolated
No one to vent to about puppy problems? Feel chained to your home by your puppy’s potty schedule?
Questioning Connection with Puppy
It’s okay if you and your puppy haven’t bonded yet – love can take time to grow. But if a lack of connection is bothering you, we can help.
Considering Return
There is no shame in returning a dog who isn’t appropriate for your home, but the Puppy Blues can make even the “right” puppy feel “wrong.”
Consider attending Puplifted before deciding whether to return your puppy.
If you have the Puppy Blues, we can help. Join us for an evening of understanding, education, and uplifted spirits.
How to Get Puplifted!
1. Register
Sign up online, and we’ll send you a confirmation email with all the details you need!
2. Learn
Have a puppy-free night out to clear your head and get your questions answered!
3. Revive
Return to your puppy recharged with new training knowledge and coping skills!