WHAT TO BRING

Students attending a CWS training program will need the following items for their program:

1. *Government approved active PDF,  personal flotation device (life Jacket)  Mandatory during all training & testing programs.
   

1. *Watersports safety and training whistle (pea-less).   

   

   
   

1. *Shoes suitable for in water work.
   

1. *Swimwear that covers shoulder and thighs (T-shirt & shorts or a wet suit)
   

1. *Canine Life Jacket - we recommend the K9 Float Coat by Ruffwear.  K-9 Life Jacket is required during training programs, optional during water testing events. EXCEPTION: Dogs in training for submersion retrieves are not required to wear a lifejacket, but may wear a harness. No Throat Collars allowed on dogs in the water.
   

1. *Watersports lead (optional) for life jacket or harness.
   

1. Canine toys that float and toys that sink.
   

1. Four to eight cups of non-soluble high value treats (hot dogs, hard cheese, shrimp, chicken or beef cut-ups). Store treats in a dog proof container inside a cooler.  To avoid weight gain and to ensure the treats maintain a high value, avoid feeding your dog “free” meals prior to start of your training program.
   

1. Optional comforts:  Chair, crate, harness & leash for land work, lunch, sun protection, dog shampoo, towels, water and a treat pouch.  Toilet, running water and changing area available.
   

For your dog’s safety, dogs must wear a life jacket during training, but may wear a harness, instead of a life jacket, during submersion training.  Throat collars must be removed prior to entering the water to prevent the possibility of strangulation or panic should the collar become snagged.  A watersports lead is acceptable when it’s attached to the harness or life jacket, but leash free leadership is the ultimate goal.

*In Water Programs