Sandy and Carlos Mejias opened the Olde Towne School for Dogs, Inc. in November of 1975. Prior to opening the school, they had trained with Capt. Arthur Haggerty, one of the most respected dog trainers in the country, now residing in L.A. Carlos had also worked with Matthew Margolis, the host of a popular P.B.S. dog training show and author of numerous books.

Carlos assisted Mr. Margolis in the writing of the book, The Liberated Dog, because of his extensive off-leash training background.

Carlos' and Sandy's knowledge goes far beyond the basic pet training and problem solving. They have each trained several dogs of several breeds through Utility, an upper-level obedience title. They have also each successfully put breed Championships on dogs of different breeds and helped owners do the same. Carlos, who graduated from the New York School of Dog Grooming in 1972, has extensive knowledge of coat management and grooming to the standard of each breed. Recently, Carlos and Sandy have been working with dogs to aid disabled people at school or in the work place. Their interest is genuine, as their daughter is disabled and one of the first service dogs they trained was a golden retriever for her. Carlos and Sandy hope to do more of this type of training if time and circumstance will allow, as it is very rewarding. Carlos has also been the creator and staunchest supporter of numerous fund-raisers for the Alexandria Welfare League; among these are Photos with Santa, the Canine Games, Olympic event for dogs; and the newest idea, the Doggie Bone Hunt. Carlos is also on the Board of Directors of the Animal Welfare League.

The idea of a school that dogs could attend just as children would, with a school bus, lunch, recess, and P.T.A. meetings, was a humorous idea to many people in 1975. No one seems to be laughing anymore, as in the past 23 years the school has turned thousands of canines into wonderful companions for their owners. The popularity of the school is such that dogs and their owners often have to wait several weeks to begin the private lesson program and several months to begin the day school program.

Obedience Training

All dogs must be evaluated before enrollment. At this time, a qualified instructor will recommend the best course for you and your dog. Our basic course includes on-leash heel, automatic sit, sit-stay, down and down-stay, come when called, and problem solving. All exercises are taught on both 6- and 15-foot leashes. Your dog's training will be done in historic Olde Towne Alexandria. Other courses available are advanced training and show training for both breed and obedience competition.

There are two course options:

1) Day-Care - a three week Tuesday thru Thursday in-school program with handling instructions for owners.
2) Private Lessons - 6 one-hour lessons done weekly with individual instructions.

We pride ourselves in a clean, thorough, and kind grooming department. We are fully equipped to groom all breeds to the standard. This is a very popular service and we recommend you book your dog's appointment in advance. Dogs may be dropped off as early as 7:30 a.m. and should be picked up by 7:00 p.m.

This program is for puppies 8 to 16 weeks of age. An instructor will evaluate your puppy and tailor your Head Start Program from there. Included in the course is a consultation that will cover house-breaking, chewing the right things, help with mouthing, safe confinement when the puppy is alone, leash breaking, and socialization with sights, sounds, and people. Graduates of our Head Start Program make excellent formal training candidates.