Parents can now keep both their children and the family’s furry companion busy this summer at Camp Bandana, a day camp for teens and their dogs on the West Island.
Founder and wildlife biologist Mariane Bolla wanted to show young teens how much they can learn about their dogs. “The teens will learn how to read their pet, learn dog language and how to prevent a dog bite,” she says. “They will also participate in sports that focus on agility, do freestyle dance, play Frisbee and go for daily walks.”
Two counsellors will be assigned 10 campers per week. They also have two specialized dog trainers. The camp accepts kids between 10 and 14 and dogs must be at least 8 months old and be able to socialize with other dogs and children.
The obedience level is not a concern because the kids will work on training the dog to behave. The teens and their dogs will work together during the week in preparation for a weekly show, where they get to show off what they’ve learned to family and friends.
There will be six, one-week sessions from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Christ Church in Beaconsfield from July 4 to Aug. 12. The cost is $375 per week and early drop off and afternoon daycare services available for an extra $10 a day. For more information, call 514-293-2826 or visit campbandana.com.