By Josiah Neuman
Neuman K-9 Academy, Inc.

Maverick, an 11-month-old, American Pitbull Terrier, arrived at the BENCHS shelter over the summer. He was abandoned at the shelter in the middle of the night, without any information provided by his previous owners. After staying at the shelter for a while, Maverick was enrolled in the pet dog boot camp, offered by Neuman K-9 Academy.

During the four week boot camp, Maverick underwent a series of behavior evaluations, to better understand the type of training needed to prepare him for adoption. First, he completed obedience training, which included recall, heel, sit, down, stay, and general etiquette (no jumping up or barging through doors). Next, he attended several field trips to various training sites, where he learned to behave around new people, dogs, and different environments. Four days after Maverick completed boot camp, he was adopted.

With proper socialization, training, and responsible ownership, we, at Neuman K-9 Academy believe Pitbulls can be wonderful pets, that deserve a chance to have a good life, like any other dog.

Neuman K-9 Academy provides professional dog training for all breeds, and is located on Highway 169, between Mankato and St. Peter. For information about our training programs, visit www.neuk9.com or call (507) 340-1600.

Editors note: "Leash on Life" is a new BENCHS program, funded by donations specifically dedicated to helping dogs like Maverick. Through this program, they receive the training they need