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K9 Nose Work Training Camp
Camp Chen-A-Wanda
Thompson, PA

September 4, 2023 – September 8, 2023
Monday – Friday

Update: 5/30/23
Working spots and Elite Working spots are full. Please join our wait list. We can often accommodate you when others drop out. 
Logistics Team/Helpers is full at this time. If you would like to be on the waitlist please contact us.
Auditing spots are still available.

Cost:
Working Spot: Starts at $1,385.00 (early bird price: $1,335.00) Full. Wait list started. See below for wait list info.
Elite Working Spot: Starts at $2,135.00 (early bird price: $2,085.00) Full. Wait list started. See below for wait list info.
Auditor Spot: Starts at $845.00 (early bird price: $795.00)
Logistics Team/Helpers: $470.00 Full. Please contact us if you want to be on a wait list.

Registration ends at 5:00pm EST on July 4, 2023 or when limit has been reached. Registration acceptance is subject to approval by the staff. A $300 deposit or full payment is required at the time of registration.

Please read all information below along with the cancellation policy carefully before registering.



Campers Arrive:
Monday, September 4, 2023 between 9:30am – 11:30am.
Camp starts after lunch with orientation and training class.

Campers Leave:
Campers leave on Friday morning, September 8, 2023, after breakfast.

Camp Size:
Current limit is approximately 84 – 87 working campers plus auditing campers and Logistics Team Members. Approximately 8 campers per regular working group and 5 campers per Elite Group.

 

Early Bird Discount:
If you register before or on 2023-06-03, you’ll get $50 OFF the Registration Price!

Location

Camp Chen-A-Wanda
Thompson PA
355 Camp Road
Thompson, PA 18465

K9 Nose Work® is a dog training activity designed to develop a dog’s natural scenting ability by using her/his curiosity, desire to hunt, and love of toys, food and exercise. The art and practice of nose work is open to dogs of all shapes and sizes and has made basic search dog skills available to companion dogs, creating a new sport arena for dog enthusiasts. Not only has it proven to be a great activity for all types of dogs, but the NACSW founders’ techniques make this one of the most accessible activities for the widest variety of dog handlers regardless of previous training experience.

Dogs of Course, in association with the National Association of Canine Scent Work™ (NACSW), has created this three and a half day Training Camp. K9 Nose Work® Training Camp is designed to enhance the understanding of K9 Nose Work®, to develop the skills necessary to compete in the sport of K9 Nose Work® as well as other nose work venues, and to provide a model for effective instruction for current and future nose work instructors.

We are happy to have nose work enthusiasts come to camp no matter their training methodology or preferred competition venue to learn more about the K9 Nose Work® training techniques and philosophy. All we ask is that you come with an open mind and consider our instructors’ methods if you are bringing your nose work dog.

This all-inclusive sleepover/day camp is open to all appropriate dog and handler teams as well as auditors. We will concentrate on the elements necessary to succeed at the sport and the application of K9 Nose Work® for recreation and increasing a dog’s confidence regardless of interest in competition. The curriculum for camp will cover foundation skills, all levels of exteriors, interiors, container and vehicle searches, improving skills for dogs already working the four required elements, building independent search skills, competition preparation, strategy and rules, handler skills, leash handling techniques, understanding how to read the dogs, motivation and reinforcement, trouble shooting and a variety of other necessary skills, PLUS loads of fun and camaraderie. Your days include working dogs as well as lectures and/or demonstrations, or other activities through the day and into the night.

We work with dogs that are already on odor from novices preparing for their first Odor Recognition Test to dogs that have earned titles at all levels.  All dogs will be working on Birch, Anise and Clove.  Only one working dog per working participant.

We (and the Camp Instructors) want to give you the best Camp experience possible! Please know that depending on who registers groups may be constructed with dogs at more than one level. Our instructors are very skilled in working with dogs at all levels and will make sure that you and your dog receive your desired level of work during your sessions. Please know that at any time during your Camp experience, you are welcome to advocate for your needs and let your instructors know what you desire for you and your dog during the working sessions. We are here for you! This is YOUR adventure!!

Note: If you are working a dog at Camp, you will be assigned to a group based on your dog’s experience. This may mean you, as a handler, will be reviewing material that you already know. If you prefer to delve into skills above your dog’s training level, auditing will be the best option.

Campers who are working dogs will be assigned to their groups based on information attained no later than 30 days before camp. We will send you a questionnaire prior to camp so you can update us with your dog’s current information.

Campers will be learning from the founders of the sport along with accomplished Certified Nose Work Instructors (CNWI). Our camp instructing staff are competent, skilled teachers that are also actively involved in many areas of K9 Nose Work®  – training, competition, judging, certifying trials, hosting trials, and instruction.
Read more about each instructor below.

Amy Herot, Co-Founder: NACSW & K9 Nose Work®

Amy is a professional K9 trainer and handler and brings over a decade of experience to her work. She has certified teams in Narcotics and Explosives and has logged over 1500 instructional hours in detection dog training. As co-founder of K9 Nose Work, and the National Association of Canine Scent Work Association, LLC® (NACSW™), she has sought to bring that experience to companion dogs and handlers through the development of K9 Nose Work® classes and sport events.

In the canine sport world Amy has trained dogs for tracking, agility, sheepherding, protection sports, and detection. She has competed nationally with her Dutch Shepherd, Maya and took 3rd place in Narcotics Detection at the Gold Coast K9 Working Dog Trials and 1st place, open division, at the Oxnard Police K9 Foundation Inaugural Trial, 2009. Her Belgian Malinois, Seven, is a nationally certified explosives detection dog and took 1st place in the Explosives Building Search at the 2009 Ventura County Sheriff’s K9 Trial and holds an APR1 IPO title.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Science from NYU and passed national certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) in December 2004.). Additionally, she is a graduate of the Balu Academy for Dog Trainers and is a John Rogerson associate here in the U.S. Her professional memberships and affiliations include the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), Southern California Dog Trainers’ Forum (SCDTF), Southern California Schutzhund Club, California Narcotics Canine Association (CNCA) and International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators (IABTI). Amy gives much volunteer time and expertise to the betterment of shelter dogs. Some of Amy’s other achievements have been the 2007 President’s Volunteer Service Award, spcaLA’s 2005 Outstanding H.E.A.L. (Helping Enhance Animals Lives) Volunteer and 2006 Volunteer of the Year.

Amy is one of the country’s most experienced K9 Nose Work® instructors and is a co-founder of NACSW™. In addition to teaching many of the top competitive teams, she has also reviewed hundreds of trial videos that have provided important insights into training and handling for success. Amy is owner of the Los Angeles based All Good Dogs, LLC. www.allgooddogs.biz

Jill Marie O’Brien, CPDT-KA, Co-Founder: NACSW & K9 Nose Work®

Jill Marie has been working with and training dogs since 1987. As co-founder of the National Association of Canine Scent Work® and K9 Nose Work® Jill Marie has focused her attention on the development of the K9 Nose Work® program. Her work has taken her to almost all the States of the Union, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Japan and most recently Sweden.

In 1996 Jill Marie joined spcaLA and developed the agency’s first Animal Behavior and Training Department since its inception in 1877. During her time at spcaLA she created the HEAL program (Helping Enhance Animals’ Lives) to improve and enrich the lives of the animal clients in the shelter, developed the Standards Program for enhanced assessments, behavior modification and placement recommendations and wrote the dog training curriculum for the TLC program designed for at-risk youth. Jill Marie’s tenure working in the shelter environment has given her a unique insight into how successful dog/human relationships are developed and sustained.

Jill Marie’s years of dog training experience includes developing a behavior assessment protocol for use in the shelter environment, agility instruction and competition, tracking, Animal Assisted Therapy, Schutzhund and canine detection training along with many hours of K9 Nose Work™ development and instruction. As one of the founders of the sport of K9 Nose Work™ and the National Association of Canine Scent Work, LLC™ she is a strong believer in activities that enhance and cultivate teamwork between dog & handler.

Along with her involvement with the NACSW and K9 Nose Work, Jill Marie operates her own dog training and consulting business in the Los Angeles area. She shares her life with her son, Aedan, and husband, Jim, and three dogs, Raven, Grip and Stella.

Carolyn Barney, CNWI, CPDT-KA

Carolyn has been training dogs and their people professionally since 1985. In 1991 she founded Gemini Dog Training, a full-service training and daycare facility and then DOGS! Learning Center in 2007. Over the years, Carolyn focused much of her time on behavior modification through private consulting and training classes. She has educated and coached owners of fearful, aggressive, reactive, and/or socially challenged dogs. Carolyn’s teaching background includes: group classes and workshops on clicker training skills, reactive dog management, and a variety of dog sports that included: agility, obedience, tracking, and earthdog. Carolyn attended the first CNWI training course on the east coast and is currently teaching nose work two nights a week. Her students range from those using the activity for enrichment for dogs with behavioral challenges to those that have achieved their ELTCH and are trialing in Summit.

In November 2001, Carolyn made dog training history along with 117 other dog trainers in the USA, passing the first standardized professional certification test created by what is now known as the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers. For the last three decades Carolyn has trained and mentored 100’s of potential dog training instructors. Many of her previous students and staff trained through her instructor programs have gone on to become Certified Pet Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA), running their own classes and businesses.

The desire for a better understanding of the canine mind and behavior has been the motivating factor in all aspects of her dog experience. Beginning with traditional training techniques, she knew there had to be a better way. Pursuing that better way has evolved into clicker training and a more thoughtful scientific and effective use of operant and classical conditioning. Carolyn believes that training and behavior modification should be safe, enjoyable, and successful for both the dog and the humans who love them. Most importantly, she maintains an open mind to new information and what every dog has to teach the human student.

Along with her training and behavior work, Carolyn wrote Clicker Basics for Dogs and Puppies. Carolyn has 2 DVD’s from the Clean Run Instructor Conference, one on Agility Foundation and one on Scaredy Dogs. Carolyn has co-taught canine cognition/behavior courses at Harvard University Extension School with Bruce Blumberg PhD, lectures to dog trainers occasionally and worked for many years as a behavior consultant for the MSPCA, providing reactive dog training classes and behavior therapy for shelter dogs and their families. Carolyn’s full-time job is Training Director of Operation Delta Dog, a not for profit that trains shelter dogs for veterans with PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Carolyn has been training, competing, and titling dogs for 40 years in obedience, conformation, tracking, agility, earth dog, and for the last decade in K9 Nose Work™. Carolyn’s PRT, Steiff, earned the NW Elite title and participated in the 2014 NACSW National Invitational. Carolyn’s Border Collie, Breezy, has her ELTCH title and is a Summit competitor. She participated in the 2017 NACSW National Invitational winning one of the searches and placing in another. Her rescue dog, Sam, achieved his NW3 Elite in just 5 trials that included placements and a first overall for his NW2. Carolyn’s future competition dog, Opal, is a black Labrador Retriever.

Christina Bunn, CNWI

Christina BunnChristina Bunn is the owner and master trainer of Puget Sound Detection Dogs. Christina has been training detection dogs for over 21 years and has owned and operated her own facility for over 15 of those years. Christina has evaluated hundreds of canines for work in detection and has trained over 150 for the detection of controlled substances. At one point, Christina had over 50 dogs working throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and the country of Brazil. Among the dogs that worked in Oregon, 11 of those dogs had been with Oregon State Police.

Christina has been an instructor at the Pacific Northwest Police Detection Dog Association’s conference for the last 10 years. Christina is a volunteer for Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue and has served in many capacities for 21 years.

During her time with SCVSAR Christina has handled two canines. K9 Matty was an area search dog and was also crossed trained to locate human remains. K9 Matty’s daughter, K9 Springfield, was a trailing K9 and was also crossed trained for human remains. Christina and her K9 partners were utilized on hundreds of missions and had multiple successes in live find as well as human remains. She is the trainer for the county’s HRD Team and conducts weekly trainings.

Christina trained “Terra” the Eco Dog that currently works for EcoTech LLC in Portland, Oregon. Terra’s duties include locating buried, leaking, heating oil tanks, and detecting soil contamination, including aviation crash sites. Christina has registered two canines with Pet Partners and HOPE Animal Assisted Crisis Response. During Christina and K9 Springfield’s career together, they deployed to the Marysville Pilchuck Highschool murder suicide, the SPU shooting and the HWY 530 Mudslide providing comfort to those involved in these crises.

With over 45 collective years in the working and companion dog realm, Christina has worked with humane societies, boarding kennels, and veterinarian hospitals. She is a Canine Good Citizen/STAR Puppy/AKC Tricks Evaluator, Certified Nose Work Instructor and Trial Judge. She teaches 13 sport detection classes a week for all levels from intro to Summit.

Having the great honor of judging at the first National NACSW trial in 2013, Christina is known for saying, “Don’t ask your dog to lower herself to your level, you, as a handler, must rise up to your dog’s level. You must become a student of your dog.”

Christina competes at the Utility level in Competitive Obedience with her Dutch Shepherd, “Dori”. Christina and “Dori” also compete in Tracking, Agility, Lure Coursing, FAST, and Dock Diving. They have multiple competitive titles under their belt. They have explored Herding and IPO. Christina is married, the mother of 5 adult children, 2 stepsons, and has 12 grandchildren to boot.

Michele Ellertson, CNWI

Michele has worked as a Professional Dog Trainer for over 20 years.  Prior to being swept up in the Nosework craze, she worked mostly in behavior modification.  In 2009, Michele was among the first dog trainers in New England to become involved in the National Association of Canine Scent Work’s (NACSW) sport of K9 Nosework.  She currently works with the NACSW as a Certifying Official, Trial Representative, trial host, and competitor.  It’s no secret the sport has skyrocketed, and Michele’s intense schedule of regular weekly classes, private lessons, specialty clinics, and new online virtual programs show it.  In addition to having the honor of teaching at the National K9NW Camps she owns “The Dog’s PACE” out of Massachusetts, a school specializing in K9 Nosework.

Personally, Michele has taken 3 of her rescue dogs to the Elite level, and competed in the 2015 and 2017 NACSW nationals with her 12 lb Chihuahua/Terrier mix names Hemi.  Currently she is owned and loved by two dogs: Chaser, a German Shepherd and Cannoli, a Belgian Tervuren.  While Cannoli is just beginning her journey of carefully laying a solid foundation, Chaser is happily enjoying his time training for his NW3 Elite title.

Although her professional and personal interests have led Michele to train in a variety of dog sports, Michele’s fondness for Nosework comes from the tremendous benefits it offers to all dogs. From confidence building, bonding, mental stimulation, and pure enjoyment, this sport offers so much to both dog and handler.

Leah Gangelhoff, CNWI, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA

Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), and Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA), Leah Gangelhoff, currently owns & operates Flint Hill K-9 Training, LLC serving the Greater Birmingham, AL area. Leah has owned and operated her own canine training and behavior business since 2002, during which time she has developed thousands of private comprehensive education courses for dogs and their owners for puppy, obedience, and serious behavior issues of all kinds, including fear and aggression. While living in Los Angeles, Leah trained in narcotics detection with co-founders Ron Gaunt and Amy Herot from 2004-2006 before the activity and sport of K9 Nose Work® was born. Leah became involved in K9 Nose Work® in 2010 and is a Senior Faculty Member at the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW™), an NACSW™ Trial Judge and Trial Certifying Official, and a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI). She has also developed and presented over 30 workshops and seminars nationally and internationally on a variety of topics in K9 Nose Work®. As a Senior Faculty Member she has collaborated with Founders and Faculty to create and teach Continuing Education courses for Certified Nose Work Instructors and is currently developing and teaching a Continuing Education webinar series for NACSW™ Certified Nose Work Instructors (CNWI).

Leah has over 1000 hours of professional narcotics detection training with a large group of dogs prior to the birth of nose work as a pet dog sport, with mentors Ron Gaunt and Amy Herot and with Rodney Spicer/Gold Coast K-9 from 2004-2006. Leah has personally passed professional detection certifications (both written and search tests) in narcotics detection (POST standards) with Evolution K9 in northern California and with the Oxnard Police Department separately with two different dogs (German Shepherd and Papillon, probably the first and only in narcotics detection).​

Leah has trained and trialed her own dog, Konner, a German Shepherd, in K9 Nose Work® all the way up through the new NACSW™ Summit Division for Elite Champion teams. Leah and Konner competed in four Summit Trials and achieved the highest title possible in K9 Nose Work®, a Summit title, placing 2nd Overall with pronounced designations and first and second placements in many Summit trial searches. Leah earned an NW3 Elite with her Belgian shepherd, Zephyr, placing First, First, and Second Overall at those trials and has earned an NW3 Elite, placing 2nd Overall with her Chihuahua mix shelter dog, Bruno Mars. She and her young cattle dog mix, Butterbean, have achieved their ORT title.

Leah has had the honor of being invited by the Camp Director and K9 Nose Work® Founders to teach at over 24 K9 Nose Work® Training Camps since 2011. She currently specializes in teaching K9 Nose Work® classes and privates locally and coaching groups, clinics, and seminars nationally and internationally in the sport of K9 Nose Work®.

Jennie Keifer, CNWI

Jennie was introduced to K9 Nose Work® in 2009, at the first Intro to Nose Work workshop held in Northern California. Before Nose Work she did not appreciate her Golden Retriever’s intense desire to hunt critters, so was instantly hooked on the training as she channeled her dog’s instincts into a healthy and rewarding outlet for both of them. Jennie and Karlie went on to compete in the first 3 NACSW™ National Invitationals and qualified for the 2017 National Invitational. They also competed in the first Elite Division trial in Santa Rosa, CA in 2015.  Jennie never dreamed that she and Karlie would go so far and grow so much as a team.

Jennie’s second Golden, Abbie started playing Nose Work games as a puppy and Jennie very quickly learned the value of this game to build self-confidence in puppies as well as adult dogs. Jennie and Abbie went on to earn their ELT2 and met the requirements for the 2017 National Invitational in MA.

Jennie is now competing with her 5-year-old Labrador, Emerson and her 2-year-old Golden Retriever, Lainey.  She is enjoying the journey with her two young dogs, grateful for all that her first two goldens taught her.

Jennie’s love of the game and the benefits it has for dogs and owners alike, motivated her to achieve CNWI status in May, 2011.  She currently teaches numerous K9 Nose Work® classes each week and offers a number of roaming drop-in classes.  Jennie’s students range from those just starting out on their nose work adventures to those competing at the Summit level.  Jennie works as part of the NACSW™ Trial Department, oversees memberships and the ORT Team, and has been a Certifying Official for the NACSW™ since 2012.  Jennie worked as a Customer Service Manager for 19 years, but decided to leave the corporate world to pursue her true love of working with dogs and their humans.

Jill Kovacevich, CNWI

Jill KovacevichJill is the owner of Mountain Dogs in McCoy Colorado. She specializes in K9 Nose Work training, hosting trial events and supporting NACSW in multiple ways. She has trained in obedience, therapy dogs and Dock Dogs with Digger. In 2011 she discovered K9 Nose Work with Dana Zinn at Zinn Dog Training in Wheatridge, CO and began her Nose Work journey with Digger and Izzy. Jill is also the Medical Administrator for Doctors On Call in Avon, CO since 2000, working with her husband Guy, a primary care provider serving Eagle County for 30 years and is a retired Colorado attorney. Jill is a Certified Nose Work Instructor, Trial Site Advisor (on hiatus during COVID), ORT Certifying Official and Judge, Score Room Lead NW1-NW2, Trial Certifying Official (NW1-NW2-NW3) and participated in the 2015-17 NACSW National Invitational Event Committees. Jill is currently trialing with Digger (ELT CH) at the Summit level and with Izzy at Elite.

Jill has also been a professional ski instructor and scuba diving instructor utilizing progressive positive sports training methods for human sports training, a style of teaching she now uses as a key foundation in developing, enhancing and enriching the human-canine bond with every K9 Nose Work handler-dog team from Intro to Nose Work to Elite and beyond. Jill teaches regularly in Eagle, Grand Junction and in the front range area in Colorado and hosts multiple trials annually in Colorado as Mountain Dogs.

Nancy Osborne, CNWI

Nancy got hooked on K9 Nose Work in the fall of 2010 while attending a presentation by Amy Herot and Jill Marie O’Brien at the APDT Conference in Atlanta. Inspired, she began teaching K9 Nose Work classes in 2011 and attended her first K9 Nose Work Camp in 2012. Nancy teaches nose work teams for all levels of competition. Currently teaching ten classes per week, Nancy enjoys watching students discover the amazing scenting abilities of their dogs. K9 Nose Work enriches and deepens the bond between the handler and the dog and Nancy finds it rewarding to see the magic relationship begin for each team.

Nancy has attended ten K9 Nose Work Camps in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Colorado as a working team, logistics member and an auditor. She frequently hosts K9 Nose Work Trials and ORT’s and workshops in North Carolina.

Nancy owns K9 Nose Adventures, LLC a business dedicated to Nose Work. She is trial Certifying Official as well as an ORT Certifying Official and Judge. Nancy works with Triad SPCA and People & Paws 4 Hope organizations introducing Nose Work to at-risk youth working with SPCA canine partners to help change the lives of both.

Nancy competes in K9 Nose Work with her three Labradors and a Norwich Terrier, Dugan Summit, Billie ELT1, Sheldon NW2 working on NW3and Cate starting NW1. She didn’t plan on competing but her dogs insisted.

Nancy has worked professionally with dogs at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston as a ward, clinic, and ICU attendant and a nurse. She honed her observation skills of dog behavior teaching obedience classes and working with dogs in the daycare setting at dog day care and training facility. Nancy worked at the University of Northern Iowa, in higher education administration as the Coordinator of Student Organizations and later, the Coordinator of Non-Credit Programs organizing and managing 100 programs per year. She holds a Masters in Higher Education Administration. Nancy is also a Certified Montessori Pre-School Teacher.

Current memberships and professional affiliations the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW).

Nancy currently lives in North Carolina with her uber trial volunteer husband Walt, three Labrador retrievers, Norwich Terrier and three cats.

Jean Richardson, CNWI

Jean is the owner of Wells Creek Dog Training on the Central Coast of Oregon and has been involved in dog training in various forms since 1984.  She began training her personal dog for obedience competition at that time and has continued to learn along the way.  She has competed and trained her own personal dogs to titles in AKC Obedience and Rally, Agility, Herding, Tracking, Field Trials and Conformation and K9 Nose Work.

Since becoming a CNWI in 2011 she has brought K9 Nose Work to the Central Coast/Eugene area of Oregon, teaching many classes for various organizations in the area.  She has since gone on to become a NACSW Certifying Official and Judge and is the NACSW CO Director of Operations.

Before moving to Oregon in 2008, she was an Instructor for Guide Dogs of America in Sylmar, Ca, helping to train and then pair guide dogs with visually impaired recipients.   She has also been involved in teaching obedience, puppy and reactive dog classes in Southern California as well as Oregon.

Jean and her husband currently share their home with two German Shepherds and a Labrador Retriever, all competing at different levels of Nose Work.

 

 

Julie Riekes, CNWI

Julie Riekes, started K9 Nose Work in January 2013 with her Australian Cattle Dog mix Amber.  She and Amber received the Harry Award in January 2014 and caught the nose work “bug” eventually traveling the country to compete and attend nose work seminars and camps. She trains regularly with the founders and several of the founding instructors in Los Angeles where she currently teaches K9 Nose Work classes.  Julie is also a NACSW trial host through JavaK9s and has hosted many trials in the Southern California area.  In addition, she serves as a mentor to new trial hosts, a volunteer coordinator for fellow hosts, is an NACSW trial coordinator, and is a NACSW Certifying Official.  She also works in the NACSW education division and served on the CNWI Manual Task Force.  Julie and Amber are one of the few teams in the country to have their ELT-CH title and five Summit titles. They consistently received top overall placements and search placements in NACSW Elite trials and achieved first place overall at six out of the seven Summit trials they have competed in.  In addition, they came in first place overall at the 2022 AKC Western Regional Championships in the Masters division, and have earned their AKC Detective title, the highest AKC scentwork title available through the organization.

Julie played competitive tennis from age 11 to 17 and competed on the junior circuit in Southern California.  She also completed the John Muir Trail in 2010 and has done extensive hiking and backpacking throughout the Sierra Nevada and San Gabriel Mountains with her husband Duncan and dog Sasha.

Julie spent most of her career in marketing and distribution and worked in her family’s glassware distribution business, Riekes Distributing Company, Inc. She attended UCLA and received a bachelors’ degree in communication studies and holds an MBA from USC.

Barbara Schwerdt, BA, CPDT-KA, CNWI

Barbara and her German Shepherd Landis (R.I.P.) were involved in K9 Nose Work since 2008. At the first sanctioned NW1 trial they earned “The Harry Award”, which is given to the most outstanding rescue dog that demonstrates extraordinary ability and spirit in nose work. They received a “Pronounced” designation for each of the three title levels: NW1, NW2, and NW3. Barbara and Landis were the 3rd team in the country to earn an NW3 Elite title. They qualified for the first four National Invitational events and competed in the first three, placing 2nd, 5th, and 12th. He earned his Elite 2 title before retiring. Landis was also part of the United States Naval Research Laboratory’s Odor Discrimination Study.

Barbara and her next K9 Nose Work partner, “Cassandra Sue (Cassie)”, a Labrador Retriever/Border Collie mix, have been working together since July 2015. After spending nearly a year on “primary” in literally dozens of locations, Cassie is now competing at the Elite level, having just earned her 3rd NW3 Title. Cassie has also earned her L1I, L2I, L1C and L2C.

Barbara and her newest K9 Nose Work partner, a German Shepherd named Renner, have been working together since February 2022. A firm believer in building a strong foundation, Renner searched for a primary reward for nearly a year in more than a dozen different locations before being introduced to NACSW target odors.

In addition to her role of Trial Judge and retired Certifying Official, Barbara also serves the organization as a Senior Faculty member. Barbara has been instrumental in curriculum development and education of new nose work instructors, as well as continuing education for certified instructors. In partnership with Dogs of Course, she has been a K9 Camp Instructor since the very first camp in Pennsylvania in 2010. Barbara has been invited to speak, coach, and teach seminars throughout the United States and on the east coast of Australia. Seminar topics include Trial Prep for NW1, NW2, and NW3, Converging Odor, Inaccessible Hides, Problem Solving, and the ever-popular Hide Placement. She teaches weekly K9 nose work classes for students at the NW3, Elite, and Summit levels.

By day Barbara is a full-time corporate trainer where she has been since 1990. She holds the position of Director of Education and Training for a not-for-profit property management company that serves low to moderate income senior citizens, families, and the chronically-mentally ill. She holds a BA degree in Deaf Studies with a minor in Gerontology from California State University, Northridge. She worked as a nationally certified sign-language interpreter for nearly 20 years.

She shares her dog training company, Amante’ Dog Training, with her husband’s dog-walking and pet sitting business Safe at Home Pet Care. Barbara is a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), a certified member of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), The National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW), the Association for Talent Development (ATD), the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), Pet Sitter’s International (PSI), AIDS LifeCycle Training Ride Leaders, and Shifting Gears Cycling Club. She and her husband have fostered numerous guide dog puppies in training, primarily German Shepherds, ensuring appropriate house-manners are part of the skills they learn.

She has been an avid distance cyclist since 2011 and has raised nearly $50,000 for AIDS LifeCycle, a non-profit organization in California which provides much needed services to those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Barbara is grateful to share her life with her long-time husband, Gerry, a house cat named Parker, their little black Labrador Cassandra Sue who is trialing at Elite, and newest member Renner, German Shepherd Dog, who is about to start on odor.

Jo Trent, CNWI

Jo Trent, originally from Colorado, had allergies to dogs and cats so “pocket pets” is what was roaming around her home.  Jo was lucky enough to have an uncle with a farm, so every summer Jo was able to experience horses, cows, pigs, goats and chickens.

In 1995 Jo moved to sunny Southern California to work in the corporate world.  After adopting her first cat, Jo’s passion for animals blossomed and she knew she wanted to work with animals.  In 1999 Jo left the corporate world and started her own pet sitting business. To help develop her skills with working with animals and give back to the animal community, she volunteered for the spcaLA. Within months, Jo found herself working full time as the spcaLA’s Outreach Assistant.

While working at spcaLA, Jo was shelter manger at P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center, assisted the spcaLA’s Animal Behavior and Training Department with assessments and became a member of spcaLA’s Disaster Animal Response Team (DART). Jo  became a sworn spcaLA Humane Officer and is S.A.F.E. certified.

Jo’s interest in K9 Nose Work® developed in 2009, when she enrolled Sluggo into a Fun Nose Work class.  Jo enjoyed the confidence and fun that Sluggo experienced through Nose Work so much that she wanted to share the wonderful game with more folks and their dogs.  Through the support of the NACSW founders and her husband, Jo started a new career in 2010 teaching K9 Nose Work® classes.

Sluggo shares his home with three furry felines and Jelly, a Belgian Malinios.

Dana Crevling, CNWI - Camp Director

Dana is a dog training and behavior geek. Over the last 40 years she has attended, participated, or hosted hundreds of seminars, workshops, courses, camps, classes, and webinars to better understand canine and animal training and behavior.

Dana has made a career working in the dog training, rescue, and behavior professions since 1986. She worked in not-for-profit animal agencies until 1999, when she started Dogs of Course with creation of her first Instructor Training Course. Instructor Training Courses were held in a shelter environment and trained hundreds of dog training instructors over the next eighteen years. Her dedication to improving the lives of dogs and their owners through quality education, while continuing to support charitable efforts, were the motivating factors when she started Dogs of Course, and they continue to be the guiding forces for all projects she creates.

Dana has been involved with canine camps starting in the mid 1980’s as a camper and/or staff member. Through her interest in agility, she created and operated an agility summer camp, Competitive Edge Sports Camp (2000-2004) that offered consistent cutting-edge training in a small friendly environment reminiscent of children’s sleepover camp. She also joined forces with Clean Run and co-produced the very popular Clean Run Camps, as well as a conference specifically for agility instructors in 2007 and 2008. It only made sense to approach the NACSW founders to start up K9NW Training Camp as the sport started to gather momentum. Since the very first K9NW Training Camp in 2010, Dana has planned and organized over 40 K9NW Training Camps and hopes to run many more.

Dana has been competing in dog sports since 1984, believing in building a deep connection with her dogs through teamwork. She has titled in obedience, field, conformation, earthdog, rally, agility, and Nose Work. She has dabbled in tracking, canine freestyle, canine square dancing and herding. Dana has trained and competed in Nose Work with two Flat-Coated Retrievers, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Norfolk Terrier.

Karin Damon, CNWI - Operations Director and Guest Instructor

Karin has been involved in performance events with dogs since 2002.   She started out in a basic obedience class with her Golden Retriever, Keebler, and put an AKC Versatility title on him. She is presently competing in agility; tracking, obedience and nose work with her other Goldens’: Jig, Jeep and Shamrock (newest member of the family).  All of the clan has been involved in advertising – showing up in various places such as commercials for Claritin, Pedigree, PetSmart Dog Food, A&P Food Stores, and even appearing on “Conan O’Brien” and “Saturday Night Live”. Jeep most recently appeared on the cover of Dog Fancy and Jig has been on the AKC Website.

Karin has achieved the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) Elite Championship title with both Jig and Jeep.  Jig was the first Golden Retriever in the country to earn the Championship title.  Karin and Jig participated in the inaugural NACSW National Invitational in California in 2013 as one of 13 dogs selected throughout the country and was Dog in White for the 2014 and 2017 NACSW National Invitational. Karin is a NACSW Certifying Official, a Trial Site Advisor for NACSW Trials, and a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI) teaching nose work since the sport came to the East Coast in March of 2010.

Karin became a certified Pet Tech First Aid and CPR Instructor in San Diego, CA and is working to finish her Canine Rehabilitation Certificate from the University of Tennessee. She was selected to work at the 1996 Olympic games in Atlanta, Georgia in the equestrian, mountain biking and modern pentathlon venues. Karin recently retired as the Head Athletic Trainer at Centenary College to start her own business. She is the owner of Shamrock Pot of Gold K9 Scenter in New Jersey.

Kathy Austin, KPA-CTP, CNWI - Logistics Team Manager

New to Nose Work:
People without nose work experience are encouraged to come to camp as auditors or Logistics Team Members to learn about the activity. We welcome instructors, sports enthusiasts, hobby trainers, and shelter workers to attend camp as your introduction to K9 Nose Work®.

Experienced Nose Work Trainers:
Our camp caters to dog/handler teams that are already on odor and experienced trainers that would like to audit. Dogs new to working on odor up through dogs ready to compete or currently competing in Nose/Scent Work trials will gain valuable experience at Camp.  We welcome repeat campers back to continue their education as well as new campers that have been taking classes with instructors versed in or who are willing to learn about the K9 Nose Work® methodology.

Dog Training Instructors:
Camp is a great way for current and future K9 Nose Work®/Scent Work instructors to learn about the activity. Whether you want to start classes for fun, competition, shelter dog enrichment, or as part of a behavior modification protocol, attending Camp will provide a solid foundation, as well as, advanced training you can take home and apply. Learn from some of the world’s most skilled and experienced instructors, including founders of the sport.

If you are currently teaching K9 Nose Work®/Scent Work classes, camp provides an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and skills, learn the newest techniques, and understand the latest thinking behind the training. Camp gives you time to fine tune your skills, so you can go back to your students with the most current knowledge.

Certified Nose Work Instructors, as well as instructors certified with other organizations, will be given continuing education credit that is necessary for keeping your status current.

See the Continuing Education Units section below for full details.

We work with dogs and their handlers that are already on odor from novices preparing for their first Odor Recognition Test to dogs that have earned titles at all levels. All dogs will be working on Birch, Anise and Clove odor. Working spots are limited.

Working Campers, Pre-Competition and Beyond  Full. Wait list started. For wait list, fill out the registration info below and click the wait list button at the bottom of the page. Then fill in your name, email address, phone number and dog training level on the window that pops up after you click the wait list button.
When you bring your dog to camp you will be placed in a group of approximately 8 dogs of similar level. Generally, these groups cater to dogs that have not yet achieved an NACSW Elite title or the equivalent in other scent work organizations.

Elite/Summit titled teams (or equivalent) are also welcome to participate in the “regular” working groups. Elite/Summit/equivalent Teams in regular groups should expect a mix of participants including those currently competing at the NW3 level. Focus will generally be at the NW3 level with only some preparation for Elite trialing.

Working Campers, Elite/Summit/SWM/DDCH groups   Full. Wait list started. For wait list, fill out the registration info below and click the wait list button at the bottom of the page. Then fill in your name, email address, phone number and dog training level on the window that pops up after you click the wait list button.
We offer specialized groups for our Elite/Summit League teams and those with AKC Scent Work Master (SWM) title, USCSS Detection Dog Champion (DDCH), or equivalent,  that would like a smaller group experience. Each Elite group will have 5 dog/handler working teams instead of 8 working teams. These working groups are designed to meet the needs of teams competing in Elite Summit League and competing toward SWME and Detective Titles. Each team will benefit from specific coaching on competition strategy with more time to work through complex problems and unique challenges to better prepare them for competition. Elite Groups may consist of a mix of different levels of Elite, Summit League, SWM, and DDCH teams. Dogs must have an NW3 Elite title and/or AKC SWM or USCSS DDCH (or equivalent) title to participate. There is an additional fee for the smaller Elite groups.

  • In the event that there are not enough Elite registrations to run the Elite Group 60 days before the start of camp, one of the following options will be offered:
    • Dogs of Course will create a smaller or larger working group of teams providing all the campers involved agree to make up the cost equivalent to 5 teams. A smaller group would pay more and a larger group would pay less per dog.
  • Alternately, the group will be cancelled and the affected parties can:
    • Receive a full refund without penalty or transfer to a regular camp working group of 8 teams that are training at the NW3 level.
    • Or run a dog other than the Elite dog at camp and be placed in the appropriate working group.

Auditing Campers: Campers who register as auditors are welcome to attend all sessions and move from group to group as long as she/he does not create a distraction or disturbance. Auditors may attend, but will not participant in, the training or other dog related activities. During working sessions we ask that auditors hold questions as it takes away from and interferes with the working campers’ time. Auditors can ask questions during lectures. Auditors must leave their dog(s) home. Anyone that stays on camp property and is not working a dog is considered an auditor.

If the primary reason for coming to camp is to learn for your students and your dog is not at the level you need instruction in or you want to learn about multiple levels, we suggest you audit camp and leave your dog home.

All persons attending camp as non-working participants will be required to register as an Auditor. Due to the nature of this event no exceptions will be permitted for this camp.

Logistics Team Member Campers (help us at camp):
If you would like to attend camp at a reduced rate, and like to help out, this may be the option for you! In exchange for working, Logistics Team Members audit camp sessions, have the option to work their dog in four special training sessions, live in shared housing with all meals included. Logistics Team Members play a critical role in making camp run smoothly. They help set up camp (arrive early), move crates and tents, assist instructors,  support campers, clean up after camp and perform a variety of other duties. There are some restrictions due to the nature of the job, but many campers find being on the Logistics Team a great option. Please note that this can be a physical job that requires lifting and the ability to walk around the Camp easily.

Please contact Bonnie for an information packet to help you decide if this is a job for you.

Camp is open to all adults, who are at least 18 years old, interested in K9 Nose Work and can meet the requirements of camp.

All campers must be in good physical condition and able to walk to all activities as cars will be parked at the edge of camp in the parking area. This is a large facility on hilly terrain.

All Campers must be physically able to move their crates, other gear, and your dog short/medium distances to get to the next training area. It may be up or down an hill. A wagon or other type of cart is recommended.

Campers must be willing to clean up and sweep their room/cabin before going home leaving it in a neat and tidy condition.

Campers must agree and adhere to the Dog Attendance Policy.

Campers must clean up after his/her dog(s) and deposit feces in garbage receptacles.

Campers will need two crates for their working dog. One for the room and a second one to bring to the work stations. We suggest your working crate to be sturdy but light weight and easy to carry. A small dolly or a crate cart that can roll on bumpy dirt roads or grass could be very helpful if you want to move your own crate or to move in and out of your housing.

There will be a designated smoking area for those who want to smoke. All smoking must be done in designated open areas and never inside a building, structure, or in a wooded area. Violation of these rules is grounds for dismissal without refund.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited when working dogs or attending classes.

When more than one person attends from a family with one dog, one person is designated the handler and does all the training. The other person is an auditor. Family members cannot take turns working the dog.

Camp Chen-A-Wanda is nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pocono Mountains in Susquehanna County, PA just 2.5 hours from New York City and centrally located for easy access from a variety of other metropolitan areas. Situated on acres of rolling hills with a spectacular lake, open fields, and hiking areas (on leash please), Chen-A-Wanda provides a perfect setting for nose work fun. Camp Chen-A-Wanda has a number of buildings for inside training as well as an abundance of outside space for exterior and vehicle search education.

Click Here to take a virtual tour of the grounds!

Camp photos:

Please see the “Tuition, Lodging and Other Camp Options and Fees” Section  below for details about housing options that are still open.

Lodging listed below may change due to ongoing camp improvements and COVID. We will update as necessary.

Each camper requests the lodging that best meets her/his needs on a first come basis. Campers from the previous year have the option to return to their housing or upgrade (if available) before general registration opens.

2023 Housing: Due to COVID we prefer only to put people that know each other into multiple occupancy cabins. We will do our best to work with campers that want to stay on the property and need roommates. This may mean that commuting may be an option if your housing choice is not available.

Cabin Bunk Rooms:  Most campers will enjoy the full summer camp experience and bunk in a cabin as a single or with multiple occupancy. Multiple occupancy cabins will be approximately two to four people in a cabin bunk room. Campers may request roommates. If two or more campers want to be guaranteed a bunk room all to themselves, the pricing is considered “standard rate plus occupancy.” Number, size, and special needs of dogs, or camper requirements, may dictate the lodging accommodations options available. Owners of reactive dogs or socially awkward dogs may find it best to room with friends that understand and can accommodate the dog’s spatial requirements or stay in a private/single room. For those campers with dog reactive dogs that are coming on their own and are staying in the cabins (not a single room/bunk), we will do our best to match you with another camper that has a dog with similar social needs or an auditor. If we can not find an appropriate match we will contact you about commuting. It will be up to each camper to work with her/his bunk mate to create a safe and equal living environment. This may require that dogs will have limited time loose in the bunk room and must sleep in their crates or an ex-pen at night. Campers with “friendly” dogs should expect that this may be required for your dog as well.

Single Rooms/Cabin Bunk Rooms: FULL. Wait list only.
There are a limited number of compact single rooms with their own small private bathroom. The single rooms are best for one adult or a couple and one or two dogs due to limited floor space and may require stacking crates.
A limited number of single cabins (bunkroom) are also available. This option will give the camper a private bath and exterior entry with multiple twin bunk beds and plenty of room to stretch out.  Some of the twin bunk beds can be moved together to give you more space.

The housing at Camp Chen-A-Wanda offers a true sleepover camp experience. Campers should rustic charm and expect very basic amenities. The rooms and cabins are not heated or air-conditioned. Some rooms have fans.

Campers must bring their own linens. There is no linen service. Campers should plan to bring sleeping bags or heavy blankets. Electric blankets for the beds are welcome.

Pet Cleaning Fees: $25
The ability to stay at a children’s camp with our dogs is a privilege. No matter how well we clean-up after ourselves, facilities need extra cleaning after dogs stay.  For all campers living on-site that bring dogs there will be a $25 per camper pet cleaning fee. This includes Logistic Team Members who bring a dog with them to camp. Commuters, Auditors and LTM without a dog do not have to pay the fee.

Additional cleaning or damage fees may be required if a camper leaves their housing in worse condition then when they arrived.

Commuters: Campers that prefer more up-scale accommodations are welcome to commute to camp each day. The cost for commuters is the same as campers staying in multiple occupancy cabins and includes all meals and all activities. Commuters who are working dogs should plan on crating their dogs in their vehicles. Vehicles will be parked at the edges of the camp or in one of the athletic fields that may be a walk from the main activities. Campers must provide their own shade as needed. There is not a commuter crating cabin at this camp.

Commuters are responsible for locating and making their own sleeping arrangements. “Bring Fido” website has some ideas for lodging, as well as VRBOs in the Thompson, PA area.

We will have room for 2 camper RV parking spots in 2023.

You MUST be self-contained. They may be a possibility for 20 amp electric hookup with very long extension cord, but access to power is not guaranteed.

 

Campers and staff eat together in the dining hall. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served in the dining hall at designated times starting with lunch on arrival day and ending with breakfast on move out day. The menu will consist of healthy, filling food for omnivores as well as vegetarians. We are sorry but we can not cater to specific dietary restrictions and suggest campers that have special needs supplement the meals as needed.  Grocery Stores are about 30 minutes from Camp.

  • Each working participant will be permitted to bring their registered working dog, plus one additional non-working dog at no additional fee. Additional non-working dogs will be permitted based on available space and there will be an additional fee. The additional dog(s) may not pose any safety, handling or other concerns during camp.
  • Only one working dog per working participant. No swapping of dogs during camp classes.
  • Non-working dogs must stay quietly in the lodging accommodations while the handler is in class with the working dog.
  • Dogs are worked one at a time while the other dogs are resting in crates in the training area until her/his turn.
  • Dogs must be able to stay quietly in a crate out of owner’s sight when not working or when owner is not in their lodging. Handlers must sit with dogs that vocalize in their crate during class to quiet them and will miss the opportunity to watch others.
  • Dogs must be crated when left alone in the cabins/rooms. Owners are responsible for any damage the dog does to the facility.
  • Females in season will be allowed at this camp. See ‘Rules for Females in Season’ below for details.
  • Dogs must be healthy and free of contagious conditions including fleas. Dogs found with a contagious illness that may affect the rest of the dog population may be asked to leave without refund.

Your dog’s mental health is important to us, as is the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all camp participants. If your dog falls into one of the above categories, we ask that you leave him/her at home and attend camp as an auditor.

Dogs that are NOT good candidates for the sleepover camp experience:

  • Dogs with moderate to severe separation stress are not good candidates for camp. Dogs must be crated away from the owners during meals, lectures and in working sessions in unfamiliar environments. At Camp we live and train in close proximity so dogs that vocalize regularly and for extended periods of time create stress for other campers and dogs in the area. For most dogs with separation issues Camp compounds the problems seen at home or in classes. At this camp car crating is not realistic as vehicles are parked remotely.
  • Dogs that have moderate to severe dog to dog aggression. For many dogs with serious spatial issues living 24-hours a day for multiple days in a novel environment, with strange dogs everywhere, can significantly increase stress, inappropriate behavior, aggression, and/or arousal. Dogs that cannot calmly walk by another dog within 8′ – 10′ or be crated in the same area as other dogs do not generally make good candidates for camp.
  • Puppies under 5 months of age cannot attend camp. Pups older than 5 months must be comfortable with crating in an unfamiliar environment, being crated away from their owner and be mentally mature enough to handle the stress of a multi-day camp. Older pups should be completely housebroken if attending camp. We cannot have housebreaking accidents in the camp owned facilities.
  • Dogs that are reactive to PEOPLE cannot attend Camp. At Camp dogs will be exposed to many different strangers during classes and while living on the campus. Dogs are asked to work problems in close proximity (in particular – interiors) to other campers and staff members. All dogs must be able to tolerate quick movement, gesticulation, normal and repeated eye contact, vocal interaction, close proximity, and unplanned encounters from men and women. We cannot provide special accommodations for dogs that are not comfortable with all types of people in close proximity.
    • This includes human reactive dogs that have acclimated to a class or private lesson situation but are still reactive with strangers, in strange situations, or react when under stress. Tolerance to people in a regular class or familiar situation is not a good indicator that a dog will do well at Camp. Again, the living and group training logistics of the Camp environment will often magnify issues or cause a regression in modified behavior.
    • We cannot accommodate dogs that are human aggressive or have fear issues that may evoke a warning or an aggressive response.
    • Dogs that threaten other dogs or humans, or are considered to be a perceived danger at camp to themselves or others will be asked to leave. No refunds will be offered if a dog is excused from participating in camp or asked to leave the camp grounds.

We all want to have a pleasant experience; the success of this event will rely on everyone being diligent in complying with all the canine rules of engagement.

  • All dogs must be able to be safely and humanely physically controlled by their registered handler.
  • All dogs must be kept on a six foot leash unless in designated areas or working directly in a session with camp staff personnel (no moving dogs from one area to another on flexi-leads or long lines).
  • Dogs must remain ON LEASH at all times… NO EXCEPTIONS. (except where noted)
  • Dogs must be crate trained and able to be crated safely and quietly away from the handler.
  • No dog/dog play or interaction will be permitted unless between two dogs residing in the same household.
  • There will be a designated long line or flexi-lead exercise areas for playing ball or swimming your dog. We will not have an off lead area at camp. Off lead outside exercising must be done off camp property.
  • We ask that, regardless of how friendly your dog may be, you respect that not every dog is comfortable with other dogs approaching and may communicate their displeasure. Please ask permission before you let your dog approach or get too close to other dogs. Managing your dog is your direct responsibility. Participants that must be repeatedly reminded of camp rules about not allowing their dog to approach other dogs, or if their dog poses other safety concerns, may be dismissed from camp without refund.
  • If you work a dog that does not do well in close proximity to other dogs or humans, you will need to evaluate carefully the appropriateness of camp for your dog. See above.
  • Dogs that need space or react to dogs or are worried must wear a red bandana and have a bandana tied to his/her crate (or car) to help communicate the dog’s needs.
  • Campers must be willing to negotiate with his/her cabin-mates so there are fair and peaceful living conditions for all involved. Please expect that your dog will need to be crated at least part of the time when in the cabin.

Female dogs with working spots in season will be permitted to participate in this camp. Additional dogs coming to camp as non-working companions can NOT be in season. If a registered working dog comes in season, the dog may participate if the camper agrees to the following rules:

  • Owners must commute or have a single room. Upgrading housing to accommodate your dog may incur an additional fee. For housing exceptions, please discuss with Dana.
  • Commuters must crate their dogs in their vehicles during lunch and lectures.
  • Your dog must wear pants at all times except when toileting in designated area.
  • Expect to have a designated toilet area near your cabin or vehicle if commuting.
  • Movement of female dogs in season will be restricted to going to and from classes and toilet area.
  • Bring a sturdy crate for your dog; your dog cannot be left unattended in a room with other dogs present.
  • Expect that your dog may need to run last in classes depending on your group dynamics.
  • Non-working dogs are NOT allowed at camp if in season.
  • Dana Crevling/Camp must be notified in advance that you will have a female dog in season at camp so she can prepare for you.

See Cancellation and Refund section for all options including refunds.

We will have a camp store with fun Nose/Scent Work related items, including T-shirts, for you and your dog. Cash and checks are strongly encouraged. Credit card payment may be limited due to wifi conductivity.

We will continue the Dogs of Course tradition and hold our charity raffle. Raffle proceeds will go to fighting canine Cancer in 2023.

Continuing Education Credits:

NACSW™
10 CEUs for CNWIs

CCPDT
11 CEUs for CPDT-KA/KSA – working spots
9 CEUS for CPDT-KA/KSA – auditor
1 CEU for CBCC-KA/KSA – working or auditing

KPA-CTP
27 CEUs for working spots and auditors

No video or audio taping of lectures, demonstrations or classes permitted. At the discretion of the instructor and facility, videotaping of your own dog may be allowed during runs but may not be posted on a public website such as You Tube, Facebook, etc. without permission. There may be some videotaping done by the staff or instructors for educational or promotional purposes if participants at the workshop have signed a photo/video release. Auditors and campers may NOT videotape other teams working unless they are videoing for the person working with her/his camera. Any approved videotaping is for personal use only.

Photography is welcome and encouraged at camp. Campers are encouraged to take still photographs at camp and post on social media. Before you post a photo of another person on social media, please be sure to have their permission.

Karen Ogden, Sirius Photography,  will be our professional photographer again this year. She will be taking photos of the camp experience for you to purchase. See her work and previous PA camp photos on https://sirius.smugmug.com

COVID-19 (1/6/23 revision)
Due to COVID-19 and all the uncertainty that has come with it, we need to let you know several things:

  • Our goal is to provide a safe environment where we can all feel comfortable, and risk is minimized while still enjoying the camp experience.
  • ALL participants must not have contracted COVID less than 10 days prior to coming to camp AND must be symptom free.
  • ALL participants must not have been in contact with, living with, or exposed to any person with COVID- 19 for at least 5 days prior to the start of camp.
  • All Campers are strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated.
  • PCR testing 5 days prior to traveling to camp is strongly recommended/encouraged. See refund policy. If you can’t get PCR testing, please rapid test instead.
  • Campers should rapid test one last time test before leaving home and then minimize exposure when traveling to camp to maximize chances for a negative test at registration.
  • Campers will be required to take rapid tests and may have temperatures taken upon arrival at camp and/or during camp. Campers that test positive and/or have a temperature will be asked to leave.
  • Campers should bring 2 rapid test kits with them to camp. One to use at registration in the presence of a staff member. The second rapid test should be saved to have available if needed while at camp.
  • All Campers must wear masks for interior searches and depending on the level of COVID-19 in the area/country, you may be asked to wear masks outdoors as well. Or if things are really good, we may not need masks. Best to plan for them. We will be making decisions based on CDC guidelines and current outbreak levels. We will err on the side of caution.
  • By coming to camp, you will agree to cooperate with the rules or regulations set in place with regards to mask wearing, hand sanitizing, food handling, and other protocols.
  • You will be asked to sign a COVID-19 waiver before coming to camp, indicating that you have had at least the required initial vaccine(s) and one booster within the last 12 months or that you understand that you may be at greater risk if not vaccinated or boosted. Further you will state that you do not currently have COVID-19 and have not been in contact or exposed to any person with COVID-19 in the past 5 days.
  • Social distancing will be strongly encouraged and/or required in certain situations.
  • Non-compliance may result in dismissal from Camp without a refund.
  • Campers with COVID may not participate in Camp and will be asked to leave.
  • By registering and attending Camp you fully understand that there is risk of contracting COVID-19.

See Cancellation and Refund section for COVID specific refund policies.

2023 Camp Tuition

Tuition includes 1 or 2 dogs. See costs for additional dogs below. Camp tuition covers lodging, meals and all classes and activities.

Lodging preference is not guaranteed. We have limited camp housing, so once the reserved rooms fill up, you will only be able to attend as a Commuter.

Anyone who is not staying at Camp Chen-A-Wanda is considered a commuter. Commuter rate applies to campers staying in any housing that is not designated for our group. The Commuter fee will cover meals, all training and other activities.

 

Tuitionbefore or on 6-3-2023after 6-3-2023
Working Spot Full. Wait list started. For wait list, fill out the registration info below and click the wait list button at the bottom of the page. Then fill in your name, email address, phone number and dog training level on the window that pops up after you click the wait list button.

$1335$1385
Working Spot – Elite (+$750) Full. Wait list started. For wait list, fill out the registration info below and click the wait list button at the bottom of the page. Then fill in your name, email address, phone number and dog training level on the window that pops up after you click the wait list button.

$2085$2135
Auditor Spot$795$845
Helper
Logistics Team Member
Register only if you’ve been approved/accepted. Email Bonnie  for information.
Helpers can choose Camp Housing or Commuter option.
$470$470
Room/Accommodation Options
Standard Room – Multi
Multiple Occupancy Cabin, 2-4 people in an unheated cabin bunk room with shared bathroom
+$0+$0
Standard Room Plus – Multi:

Private bunk room with shared bathroom  for 2 or more people who want their own cabin bunk room. Unheated cabin. Limited number; first come basis.

If you want to stay with someone during camp, tell us your roommate’s name.

+$100+$100
Premium Room – Single/Multi: FULL. Wait list only.
Available to Auditors only if other occupant is a working camper.Private single room/private bath/exterior entry. One double or queen bed for 1 or 2 people with one or two dogs. Unheated. Rooms are small, so crates may need to be stacked. Limited number; first come basis.
+$215+$215
Premium Room – Single Cabin (bunk): FULL. Wait list only.
Private cabin. Multiple twin sized beds that can be pushed together for 1 person with one or more dogs. Plenty of room to stretch out and move around. Unheated cabin. Limited number; first come basis.
+$215+$215
Premium Room –  Single with Jack & Jill Bathroom: FULL. Wait list only.
Private single room/J&J bathroom/Interior corridor. One double or queen bed for 2 people with one or two dogs. Rooms are small, so crates may need to be stacked. Limited number; first come basis.
If you want to stay with someone during camp, tell us your roommate’s name.
+$215+$215
Commuter:

Stay offsite and commute to camp daily. Includes three meals a day and all activities.; no housing. Dogs crated in your car when not in class. Cars will be parked on the outskirts of camp or in athletic fields.

+$0+$0
RV Spot
Only 2 RV/camper spots at this camp.
You must be self-contained.
+$0+$0
Additional Options
One additional dog (dog #3)
Only for working participants; auditors cannot bring dogs.
$90$90
Two additional dogs (dog #4)
Only for working participants; auditors cannot bring dogs.
$180$180
Please contact Dana if you need to bring more than 3 dogs for one working participant as this may limit housing options or your ability to be a camper.
Linen Service – no linens
Campers must bring their own linens. There is no linen service at this camp,
N/AN/A
Cleaning Fee
For Working Campers and LTM bringing a dog and living on-site.
Auditors and commuters do not need to pay a cleaning fee.
$25$25

Registration ends at 5:00pm ET on July 4, 2023 or when limit has been reached. Registration acceptance is subject to approval by the staff.

A $300 deposit or full payment is required at the time of registration. Please note that the non-refundable portion of your tuition is $200 for regular working groups, Logistics Team Members and auditors and $275 for Elite Groups. Full payment is due no later than 90 days  prior to the start of camp – June 4, 2023.
Payment Options: You may pay via PayPal or check. Your registration will not be considered complete until we receive payment and approve your attendance. Registration is pending for check payment until received and processed and we approve your attendance.

Working spots are limited. All persons attending camp as non-working participants will be required to register as an Auditor. Due to the nature of this event no exceptions will be permitted for this camp.

Please read all information below along with the cancellation policy carefully (posted in next section) before registering.

All cancellations must be sent to Dogs of Course and must be in writing. An acknowledgement of your cancellation will be emailed to you within 3 business days from Dogs of Course. Please keep a copy of the cancellation email for your records; your cancellation is not valid without this confirmation of receipt. K9 Nose Work® Training Camp and Dogs of Course are not responsible for cancellations that do not reach the office by the deadlines.

Please note that the non-refundable portion of your tuition is $200 for regular working groups, Logistics Team Members and auditors and $275 for Elite Groups.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

This policy applies to participants that must withdraw for ANY reason, including but not limited to injury, illness, emergency, and personal or work-related reasons. This policy is without exception.

If you have concerns about the cancellation/refund policy, please consider researching “Trip/Travel Insurance” options independently.

Refund Schedule:

  • Cancellations received within 3 days of registration, full refund. If you change your mind about attending camp within 3 days of your registration, a full refund will be offered.
  • Cancellations received 60 days or more before the camp start date will be refunded in full less the $200 /$275 non-refundable, non-transferable (neither to another person nor camp, event, seminar), cancellation fee.
  • Cancellations received between 60 and 30 days of the camp start date, will be refunded 50% of the tuition after the $200/$275 non-refundable, non-transferable, cancellation fee is deducted. If Dogs of Course obtains a qualified working team that meets the replacement qualifications (see below) either on our wait list or through Dogs of Course marketing search 30 days before the start of camp, tuition will be refunded in full less the $200/$275 fee as indicated in first bullet above. Campers will not be able to locate their own replacements. Campers may refer candidates to Dogs of Course to be placed on the wait list. All replacement campers must come from the camp wait list. Qualifications for replacement are: The dog may need to be working at the same level as the dog previously registered, the camper agrees to all policies and the team can fit the previously requested housing assignment or commute.
  • Due to the nature of running a dog training camp cancellations received 30 days or fewer before the camp start date will not receive a refund nor be eligible for the replacement option stated above.
  • Each Nose Work® Camp is considered a “Single Event.” As such, registration for one camp cannot be transferred to a different camp. Changes from one camp location to another will be treated as a cancellation for the original camp registration per the above policy. At that time, the camper will be free to register for an alternate camp when camp registration opens for the public. There will be no “early bird” or “pre-registrations” allowed when cancelling one camp and wishing to enroll in an alternate camp.

COVID Specific Refund Info:

Due to the ever-changing national COVID situation, it is difficult to anticipate what will be happening when camp runs. We have done our best to come up with a refund policy based on current information that is fair for both the camper who may have COVID, the other campers and staff, and Dogs of Course.

  • Campers who get COVID within 10 days of the start of Camp or are still symptomatic (other than sense of smell/taste) will be refunded in full minus the non-refundable deposit.  Camper must show proof of positive COVID PCR test from a health care provider to be refunded.
  • Campers who arrive at Camp and test positive and/or have a temperature at registration will be refunded as follows:
    • Campers who have had a negative PCR test 5 days or less before the start of Camp will be refunded in full minus the non-refundable deposit. Proof of the negative PCR test from a health care provider is required to be refunded at this level.
    • Campers who have not had a PCR test 5 days or less before the start of Camp will be refunded tuition minus the non-refundable deposit and an additional $300.
  • Campers who get COVID during camp will be refunded on a prorated basis. Each case will be looked at individually.

These policies may change depending on the current COVID information and status. Registered campers will be informed of changes in this policy.

Changing Attendance Levels:

  • Campers may change from a working spot to auditing/logistics team member, from an Elite working spot to regular working spot, auditor, logistics team member, or from auditor to logistics team member, under the following guidelines:
    • Changes received 60 days or more before the camp start date will be changed for a $25 administrative fee.
    • For changes between 60 and 30 days, the camper will receive a refund of 50% of the difference between the two registration fees.
    • Due to the nature of running a dog training camp changes from a working spot to an auditor/logistics team member spot received 30 days or fewer before the camp start date are not eligible to receive a refund.
    • Campers with working spots that switch to auditing/logistics team member are subject to housing changes available to auditors. This may include switching from a single accommodation to multiple occupancy or require commuting.

“No Shows” and Leaving Early:

  • Campers that leave early for their own reasons or are “No-shows” will not receive a refund.
  • Participants asked/required to leave the event/property by the camp director or lead instructors will not be refunded any part of the tuition.
    • Reasons for dismissal from camp may include, but are not limited to:
      • Dogs that are disruptive to other campers, dogs, the staff, or the facility
      • Dogs that exhibit aggression deemed unmanageable/unsafe by the staff for the camp environment
      • Dogs that cannot be safely managed and/or trained by their handler
      • Unresolved camper conflict, disruptive or inappropriate behavior
      • Rule non-compliance
      • Health issues, either canine or human, that may impact or endanger other dogs or campers. See COVID specific policies.
      • Health issues that negatively impact the dog’s emotional, mental or physical well being

Force Majeure:

  • No part of the tuition fee will be refunded if the camp cannot take place or be completed by reason of fire, civil disturbances, an Act of God, public emergency, or any other cause beyond the control of the camp organizers.

Options for Female Working Dogs in Season only:

  • Dana Crevling/Camp must be notified in advance that you will have a female dog in season at camp so we can plan accordingly.
  • Option 1) Working dogs that come into season are allowed if the camper agrees to specific rules. See Females in Season section.
  • Option 2) Bring a different qualified dog working at the same level
  • Option 3) Switch to auditor registration and receive a refund for 50% of the difference between the two registration fees
  • Option 4) The camper can cancel and be reimbursed per the general policy.
  • If a non-working dog comes into season the person must leave the dog home and will be reimbursed the additional dog fee (if applicable) minus a $25 admin fee or if the camper cancels the general refund policy above will apply.

This policy applies to participants that must withdraw for ANY reason, including but not limited to injury, illness, emergency, and personal or work-related reasons. This policy is without exception.

If you have concerns about the cancellation/refund policy, please consider researching “Trip/Travel Insurance” options independently for your  protection.

Camp Chen-A-Wanda
355 Camp Road
Thompson, PA 18465

From NJ and NY via the NY State Thruway
NY State Thruway to Exit 16 to Route 17 West. Exit 104 Raceway Road
Take 17B (alongside Monticello Raceway) to Fosterdale
At Fosterdale- go straight ahead, 5 miles to Route 97
Turn Left onto Route 97 for approximately 500 feet
Turn Right into Cochecton and take 371
Continue on Route 371 and pass thru Pleasant Mount and Herrick Center
Go straight ahead into Herrick Center
As you go straight ahead, Route 371 West becomes Route 374 West
In 3 miles you will come to Dimock Corners
Turn Right to CAMP CHEN-A-WANDA (about 2 miles)

From NY and NJ via the George Washington Bridge/Route 80
George Washington Bridge to Route 80 to Route 380 North to Route 81 North
Exit at 206 (old Exit 63) Lenoxville, Elk Mountain Ski Resort
When exiting from highway, go straight at the stop sign
Follow the signs to Elk Mountain Ski Resort by following 374 East
It is about 8.7 miles to Elk Mountain
Go 1.1 miles past Elk Mountain
At the stop sign – head left and continue on 374 East
At the four corner intersection, 374 East turns to the Right. Go straight – Do not turn Right *Camp CHEN-A-WANDA is 2 miles ahead on the Right

From Philadelphia via Pennsylvania Turnpike
Take I-76 W via the ramp to Valley Forge
Take exit 331B to merge onto I-476 N for 115 miles
Take exit onto I-81 N toward Binghamton
Take exit at 206 (old Exit 63) Lenoxville, Elk Mountain Ski Resort
When exiting from hwy, go straight at the stop sign
Follow the signs to Elk Mountain Ski Resort by following 374 East
It is about 8.7 miles to Elk Mountain
Go 1.1 miles past Elk Mountain
At the stop sign – head left and continue on 374 East
At the four corner intersection, 374 East turns to the Right. Go straight – Do not turn Right *Camp CHEN-A-WANDA is 2 miles ahead on the Right

Airports: (times are approximate and will vary based on traffic conditions)

  • Newark, NJ – 3 hours
  • Newburgh, NY – 2 hours 15 minutes
  • JFK, NYC – 3 hours 30 minutes
  • LaGuardia, NYC – 3 hours, 10 minutes
  • Albany, NY – 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA – 1 hour 15 minutes

Questions? Contact Dana Crevling at Crevling@dogsofcourse.com

Get a feel for what happens at camp by watching these sample slide shows.

2017 Georgia K9 Nose Work Camp Slide Show

2018 Colorado K9 Nose Work Camp Slide Show

“This was our first time at camp. We were blown away with all we learned and experienced. The instructors were a wealth of knowledge and experience. We would definitely attend camp again.”    D.S. GA

“…a memorable and enriching experience – from working sessions to lectures to building and maintaining camaraderie!”    J.M. GA
“It was, literally, the most stimulating nose work educational experience I’ve ever had…”   J.C. OR
“As an ANWI, Camp was invaluable. Being able to watch so many different instructors work with so many teams as students, watching the problems they set up for the teams, seeing how they coached in all different styles… I came away with so much information on how to teach. As a competitor, I now have a new way of looking at my training, new insights into the whole ‘culture’ of the NACSW way of approaching scent work. “Trust your dog”, “It depends”, all mean a lot more to me than before camp. AND – it was so much fun to meet other instructors, competitors and people from all over the world, who just want to explore their bond with their dogs.”      M.K.

If you have questions about whether you and/or your dog qualify for camp or other concerns, please contact Dana via the email link.  Click here to email Dana Crevling

Start your registration for LTM, auditors, and wait list working spots below.

Pay a deposit of $300.00 per item
    Reset options

    Dog Information


    Housing Options


    *Camp Housing or Commuter?


    Camp Housing Information

    If you are an Logistics Team Member (Helper) or Auditor, you will automatically be placed in Multiple Occupancy Housing. If you prefer another option or have a roommate request, please comment below (additional fees may apply).


    Returning Camper?

    If you are a returning camper, do you want the same room/housing or different accommodations this year?


    *Room Preference

    Camp Housing options are for Working Spots and Elite Working Spots. These options have limited availability. Select your preference, and we'll contact you if it is not available, and with options to choose from.
    Rooms are filled on a first come, first serve basis.



    Additional Dog Fee

    (only Working Spots and Elite Working Spots can bring dogs)



    *Cleaning Fee

    Room Cleaning Fee for People Bringing Dogs


    * 

    Are you vaccinated for Covid-19?

    * 

    I agree to the Covid-19 policies. (Please read the Covid information and policies in the camp description above.)


    Comments/Additional Requests

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