Mastering Canine Obedience: Tips for Competition Success
Mastering canine competition obedience requires expert training tips and tricks to guide your dog to victory in the ring. Obedience competitions focus on training well-behaved dogs that can perform specific tasks. To compete in AKC Obedience trials, your dog must meet certain requirements. These competitions are divided into three levels: Novice, Open, and Utility, with optional classes in between. Each class has different exercises that dogs must perform, including heeling, retrieving, and scent discrimination.
Scoring in obedience competitions is based on deducting points for errors. To qualify, your dog needs to earn more than 50% of points for each exercise. Training for obedience competitions goes beyond preparing your dog for the ring. It strengthens their manners and behavior, preventing problem behaviors and providing mental stimulation.
Nate Schoemer, a renowned dog trainer, brings extensive experience and expertise to the world of canine obedience training. His Academy emphasizes a systematic approach based on scientific principles. The goal is to enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners through training. Well-trained dogs are obedient, loyal, and eager to please, leading to a stronger bond between you and your furry companion.
Training a dog is an art form that takes time to master. However, with essential skills, most behavioral issues can be addressed. Nate Schoemer’s training philosophy focuses on identifying and correcting the root causes of these problems. For further guidance, Nate Schoemer’s YouTube channel offers valuable training tips and techniques.
Contact Nate Schoemer’s Academy for more information about their training programs and services. Whether you’re preparing for obedience competitions or simply looking to enhance your dog’s obedience and behavior, Nate Schoemer’s expertise and support are invaluable resources.
Understanding Obedience Competitions and Requirements
Participation in AKC obedience trials is subject to specific conditions, although the purpose is to train well-mannered dogs to do tasks. Dog owners can compete with other competent teams and show off their dogs’ obedience. Some dogs must be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) to compete in obedience trials.
The three AKC obedience trial divisions are Novice, Open, and Utility. Each level gives dogs harder exercises. In the beginner class, dogs are tested on heeling, recalling, and sit-staying. Dogs must do harder tasks such directed jumping, scent identification, and retrieving at the Open and Utility levels.
AKC contestants must observe certain rules. Exercise placement, timing, and command execution are outlined in these recommendations. Team performance is measured by drill accuracy. Missing cues and unfinished assignments are deducted. Dogs must score above half of each activity’s points to qualify.
| Competition Level | Exercises |
|---|---|
| Novice | Heeling on and off-leash, figure-eight, recall, stay, and group exercises. |
| Open | Heeling off-leash with distractions, retrieve on the flat, retrieve over high jump, broad jump, drop on recall, and group exercises. |
| Utility | Signal exercise, scent discrimination, directed jumping, moving stand and examination, and group exercises. |
Participating in obedience competitions not only allows dogs to demonstrate their skills but also provides numerous benefits for both dog and owner. Training for obedience competitions strengthens a dog’s manners and behavior, preventing problem behaviors and promoting mental stimulation. It also fosters a strong bond between the dog and owner, leading to a more fulfilling and harmonious relationship.
Exploring the Three Levels of Competition
Canine obedience competitions consist of three main levels: Novice, Open, and Utility, with optional classes available for additional challenges. Each level builds upon the skills acquired in the previous level, testing the dog’s obedience and ability to perform complex exercises.
The Novice class is the entry-level for obedience competitions. Dogs in this level are required to perform basic obedience exercises such as heeling on and off-leash, standing for examination, and coming when called. The Novice exercises focus on assessing the dog’s ability to follow commands and maintain control in a variety of situations.
As the dog progresses to the Open class, the level of difficulty increases. In this class, dogs are challenged with more advanced exercises such as retrieving a dumbbell, jumping over hurdles, and performing a drop on recall. The Open exercises test the dog’s precision, focus, and ability to perform tasks with distractions.
The highest level of competition is the Utility class, where dogs showcase their advanced skills and reliability. Dogs in the Utility class must demonstrate their ability to perform complex exercises such as scent discrimination, directed retrieves, and directed jumping. The Utility exercises require a high level of precision, focus, and teamwork between the dog and handler.
The Optional Classes
In addition to the three main levels of competition, there are optional classes available to provide further challenges for experienced dogs and handlers. These classes include the Graduation class, for dogs that have successfully completed the Novice class; the Versatility class, which combines exercises from different levels; and the Brace class, where two dogs are handled as a team.
Summary Table: Canine Obedience Competition Levels
| Competition Level | Requirements | Main Exercises |
|---|---|---|
| Novice | Entry-level | Heeling, recall, examination |
| Open | Intermediate | Dumbbell retrieve, jumping, drop on recall |
| Utility | Advanced | Scent discrimination, directed retrieves, directed jumping |
Exercises in Obedience Competitions
Dogs participating in obedience competitions are assessed based on various exercises, including heeling, retrieving, and scent discrimination. These exercises test the dog’s ability to follow commands, exhibit control, and demonstrate precision. Let’s explore each of these exercises in detail:
Heeling:
Heeling is a fundamental exercise in obedience competitions. It requires the dog to walk alongside the handler in a controlled manner, matching their pace and remaining close to their left side. The dog should be attentive and responsive to the handler’s movements, maintaining proper positioning and focus throughout the exercise.
Retrieving:
Retrieving is another crucial exercise that evaluates a dog’s ability to retrieve an object and deliver it to the handler upon command. The dog must exhibit a strong desire to retrieve and demonstrate accuracy in picking up and handing over the designated item. This exercise tests the dog’s obedience, focus, and willingness to follow instructions.
Scent Discrimination:
In scent discrimination exercises, dogs showcase their remarkable olfactory abilities. The dog must be able to distinguish and identify a specific scent among a variety of distractions. This exercise often involves the dog sniffing out the correct scent from multiple identical items, highlighting their scent detection skills and obedience to the handler’s cues.
These exercises, among others, challenge dogs to showcase their training and obedience. They require a combination of mental focus, physical control, and a strong bond between the dog and handler. By mastering these exercises, dogs can excel in obedience competitions and demonstrate their remarkable abilities.
| Exercise | Description |
|---|---|
| Heeling | Walking in a controlled manner beside the handler, matching their pace. |
| Retrieving | Fetching a designated item and delivering it to the handler upon command. |
| Scent Discrimination | Identifying a specific scent among distractions, showcasing exceptional olfactory skills. |
Scoring and Qualification in Obedience Competitions
Scoring in obedience competitions involves deducting points for errors, and dogs must earn more than 50% of points in each exercise to qualify. This rigorous evaluation system ensures that only the most skilled and well-trained dogs are rewarded with success. Each exercise is carefully assessed by judges, who closely observe the dog’s performance and adherence to predetermined criteria.
To better understand the scoring process, let’s take a look at an example exercise: heeling. In this exercise, the dog is expected to walk calmly and attentively by the handler’s side, matching their pace and maintaining a precise position. The judges evaluate factors such as the dog’s attentiveness, accuracy of footwork, and responsiveness to the handler’s commands. For each minor mistake, a fraction of a point may be deducted, while more significant errors can lead to larger deductions.
Aside from heeling, other exercises such as retrieving and scent discrimination are also included in obedience competitions. These exercises test the dog’s ability to follow commands, demonstrate focus and obedience, and showcase their natural instincts. Deductions are made for errors such as dropped objects during retrieving or incorrect identification of scents during scent discrimination.
| Exercise | Deductions |
|---|---|
| Heeling | Minor mistakes: Fraction of a point deduction |
| Retrieving | Dropped objects: Deduction of points |
| Scent Discrimination | Incorrect identification: Deduction of points |
Qualifying in obedience competitions requires consistency and precision. Dogs must perform each exercise with a high level of accuracy to earn the necessary points. It’s essential for handlers to understand the specific requirements for each exercise and invest time in training their dogs accordingly. With dedication, practice, and the guidance of expert trainers like Nate Schoemer, dogs can achieve success and excel in canine competition obedience.
Benefits of Training for Obedience Competitions
Training for obedience competitions goes beyond achieving success in the ring – it strengthens your dog’s manners and behavior, prevents problem behaviors, and provides mental stimulation. Obedience commands and competition preparation are essential components of this training process. By investing time and effort into obedience training, you can develop a well-behaved and obedient dog that will excel in competitions.
Stronger Manners and Behavior
Through obedience training, your dog will learn to follow commands and exhibit good manners both at home and in public. This includes behaviors such as walking politely on a leash, sitting and staying when instructed, and coming when called. These foundational behaviors create a well-behaved dog that is a pleasure to have around.
Prevention of Problem Behaviors
Training for obedience competitions also helps prevent problem behaviors in your dog. With consistent training and clear communication, your dog will understand what is expected of them and will be less likely to engage in behaviors such as excessive barking, jumping on people, or destructive chewing. Training instills discipline and provides your dog with an outlet for their energy and instincts.
Mental Stimulation
Engaging in obedience training provides mental stimulation for your dog. Learning and practicing new commands and exercises keeps their mind active and helps prevent boredom. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for dogs, and obedience training offers a structured and rewarding way to engage their minds.
| Benefits of Training for Obedience Competitions: |
|---|
| Stronger Manners and Behavior |
| Prevention of Problem Behaviors |
| Mental Stimulation |
Introducing Nate Schoemer – The Expert Trainer
Nate Schoemer is a highly regarded dog trainer with extensive experience and expertise in mastering canine competition obedience. With a passion for dogs and an impressive track record in the field, Nate has become a trusted name in the world of dog training. His deep understanding of canine behavior and his ability to connect with dogs on an individual level sets him apart as an exceptional trainer.
Through years of dedication and hands-on experience, Nate has honed his training techniques to help dogs reach their full potential in obedience competitions. His systematic approach, based on scientific principles, ensures that dogs not only learn the necessary skills but also develop a strong bond with their owners.
Nate Schoemer’s Academy is dedicated to enhancing the relationship between dogs and their owners through effective training methods. By focusing on positive reinforcement and clear communication, Nate empowers dog owners to establish a harmonious and respectful connection with their pets. Whether you’re starting with a young pup or looking to fine-tune your dog’s obedience skills, Nate’s expertise can guide you through the process.
Mastering Canine Competition Obedience with Nate Schoemer
Training under Nate’s guidance offers a comprehensive approach to mastering canine competition obedience. Through his acclaimed training programs, Nate emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific requirements of obedience competitions. From teaching basic obedience commands to advanced techniques, he provides the knowledge and strategies needed to excel in the competitive arena.
| Benefits of Nate Schoemer’s Training | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 1. Strengthening Manners and Behavior | Nate’s training methods focus on instilling good manners and proper behavior, leading to a well-behaved and obedient dog. |
| 2. Preventing Problem Behaviors | By addressing behavioral issues early on, Nate’s training prevents the development of problem behaviors that may hinder competition success. |
| 3. Mental Stimulation | Training exercises provided by Nate offer mental stimulation, keeping dogs engaged and eager to learn. |
For those seeking success in obedience competitions, Nate Schoemer’s expertise and training philosophy provide invaluable guidance. With his passion for dogs and extensive knowledge, Nate is committed to helping dog owners achieve their goals and build a strong bond with their loyal companions.
The Scientific Approach to Dog Training
Dog training requires a methodical approach based on scientific ideas to achieve success in obedience competitions. It goes beyond simple orders and tricks; it is about influencing behavior and developing a deep link between you and your dog. By understanding the underlying science behind canine behavior and using evidence-based strategies, you may effectively train your dog to excel in obedience competitions.
One fundamental aspect of the scientific approach to dog training is positive reinforcement. This involves rewarding desired behaviors to encourage their repetition. By utilizing food, praise, or play as rewards, you can drive your dog to do the exercises needed for obedience competitions. Positive reinforcement not only promotes good behavior but also helps develop a positive association with training, making it a pleasurable and gratifying experience for both you and your dog.
Another part of the scientific method is understanding the importance of consistency and timing. Dogs thrive on routine and clear communication, so it’s vital to be consistent in your directions and expectations. Timing is also key; rewards should be delivered quickly after the desired behavior happens to reinforce the connection between the activity and the reward.
| Scientific Approach to Dog Training: |
|---|
| Positive reinforcement |
| Consistency and timing |
| Understanding canine behavior |
| Patience and persistence |
Comprehension of dog behavior is another essential component of the scientific method of training dogs. If you understand your dog’s body language, communication cues, and natural traits, you can change the way you train them to fit their behavior better.
Using the scientific way to train your dog will help it reach its full potential and help you win obedience trials. Positive reinforcement, being on time and reliable, understanding how dogs behave, and having patience and persistence can help you raise a happy, well-behaved dog that wants to please.
Enhancing the Dog-Owner Relationship through Training
Nate Schoemer’s Academy aims to enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners through expert training, leading to success in obedience competitions. Training your dog is not just about teaching them commands; it is about building a strong bond of trust and understanding. Through training, you can establish clear communication with your dog, ensuring that they respond to your cues and commands effectively. This strengthens your relationship and creates a harmonious partnership.
Training programs at Nate Schoemer’s Academy focus on positive reinforcement techniques, which motivate dogs to learn and excel. By using rewards such as treats, praise, and play, you can encourage desired behaviors and discourage unwanted ones. This positive approach not only enhances obedience but also fosters a loving and respectful connection between you and your dog.
When you train with Nate Schoemer’s Academy, you are not just learning techniques; you are gaining valuable insights into canine behavior and psychology. Understanding your dog’s needs, instincts, and communication signals allows you to tailor your training methods to their unique personality. This personalized approach ensures that your dog enjoys the training process and feels motivated to perform their best in obedience competitions.
Expert Guidance for Lasting Results
Under the guidance of Nate Schoemer and his team of experienced trainers, you will receive expert advice and support throughout your training journey. Whether you are starting from scratch or fine-tuning your dog’s skills, their professional knowledge and expertise will help you achieve lasting results.
| Benefits of Training with Nate Schoemer’s Academy |
|---|
| 1. Personalized training plans tailored to your dog’s individual needs. |
| 2. Expert guidance in using positive reinforcement techniques for effective training. |
| 3. Access to valuable resources and training materials through Nate Schoemer’s YouTube channel. |
| 4. Ongoing support and advice from experienced trainers. |
| 5. A focus on building a strong bond and trust between you and your dog. |
| 6. Preparation for obedience competitions, with a focus on achieving success. |
Investing in training with Nate Schoemer’s Academy is an investment in your dog’s future and your relationship with them. By mastering obedience skills and building a strong bond, you and your dog can conquer the world of competition together.
The Benefits of Training – Obedient, Loyal, and Eager to Please
Well-trained dogs are not only obedient but also exhibit loyalty and are eager to please, leading to a stronger bond with their owners. Training plays a crucial role in shaping a dog’s behavior and ensuring they become well-behaved companions. When a dog understands and responds to commands, it creates a harmonious living environment, benefiting both the dog and the owner.
One of the key benefits of training is obedience. A well-trained dog can follow commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it, making everyday tasks easier and safer. Whether going for a walk, visiting the vet, or interacting with other animals and people, an obedient dog is more predictable and less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors.
Additionally, training cultivates loyalty in dogs. When an owner invests time and effort into teaching their dog, a deep bond is formed. This bond is built on trust, communication, and mutual understanding. A loyal dog will remain by their owner’s side, providing companionship, comfort, and security.
Furthermore, training instills a sense of eagerness to please in dogs. They thrive on positive reinforcement and seek validation from their owners. By rewarding desired behaviors, such as sitting patiently or retrieving an item, dogs become motivated to repeat these actions. This eagerness to please strengthens the bond between dog and owner and enhances their overall relationship.
| Benefits of Training |
|---|
| Obedience |
| Loyalty |
| Eagerness to Please |
Well-trained dogs are not only obedient but also exhibit loyalty and are eager to please, leading to a stronger bond with their owners.
Training for Obedience Competitions
- Training enhances a dog’s manners and behavior, preventing problem behaviors.
- It provides mental stimulation, keeping dogs engaged and fulfilled.
- Mastering obedience commands is essential for success in competitions.
Nate Schoemer’s Expertise
- Nate Schoemer, a renowned dog trainer, has extensive experience in canine obedience.
- His training philosophy focuses on identifying and correcting the root causes of behavioral problems.
- Through his academy, he aims to enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners.
By investing time and effort into training, owners can enjoy the numerous benefits of having a well-trained dog. Obedience, loyalty, and eagerness to please are qualities that contribute to a strong and fulfilling relationship between dog and owner. Whether for everyday living or competition purposes, training plays a vital role in shaping a dog’s behavior and fostering a harmonious bond.
The Art of Dog Training
Dog training is an art form that, although it takes time to master, allows for the acquisition of essential skills to address most behavioral issues. It goes beyond simply teaching commands and obedience; it is about building a strong bond and understanding between you and your canine companion. Like any artist, a skilled dog trainer combines knowledge, technique, and intuition to create well-behaved and happy dogs.
At its core, dog training is about effective communication. It requires clear and consistent cues, rewards, and feedback to help your dog understand what is expected of them. This can be achieved through positive reinforcement, using treats or praise to reward desired behaviors and ignoring or redirecting undesired behaviors.
Table: Essential Skills for Dog Training
| Essential Skills | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Patience | Training takes time, and progress may be slow. Being patient with both your dog and yourself is key. |
| Consistency | Using the same commands and rewards consistently will help your dog understand and respond better. |
| Timing | Timing is crucial in dog training. Rewards and corrections must be delivered at the right moment to reinforce or discourage behaviors effectively. |
| Empathy | Understanding your dog’s emotions and needs will help you tailor your training approach and build a strong bond. |
While there are many techniques and methods available, it is essential to find an approach that suits both you and your dog. Each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, it is essential to keep an open mind and be adaptable in your training methods.
Nate Schoemer’s Training Philosophy
Nate Schoemer believes in finding and solving the reasons for bad behavior in dogs. He has lots of knowledge and skill in this area. Nate knows that obedience in dogs is not just about simple training. He looks further into the reasons behind the bad behavior and provides long-lasting solutions.
Nate uses a scientific approach to understand dog behavior. He uses evidence-based techniques to identify the root causes of behavioral problems. Then, he creates targeted training strategies to address them. This approach helps dogs overcome their challenges and improves their obedience and performance in competitions.
Nate believes in creating a strong bond between dogs and their owners. Trust and communication are important for obedience competitions. Nate’s Academy provides owners with the skills to train their dogs effectively.
The Benefits of Nate Schoemer’s Training Philosophy:
- Addresses the root causes of behavioral problems
- Utilizes a systematic and scientific approach
- Fosters a strong bond between dogs and their owners
- Improves obedience and performance in competitions
Whether you’re preparing for your first obedience competition or looking to improve your dog’s performance, Nate Schoemer’s training philosophy offers the expertise and guidance needed to achieve success. Through his proven methods and dedication to understanding canine behavior, Nate can help you unlock your dog’s full potential and master the world of canine competition obedience.
| Training Philosophy Highlights: |
|---|
| Identifies and addresses root causes of behavioral problems |
| Utilizes systematic and scientific approach |
| Strengthens the bond between dogs and owners |
| Improves obedience and performance in competitions |
Training Tips and Techniques from Nate Schoemer
Nate Schoemer provides valuable training tips and techniques through his YouTube channel, sharing his expertise to help dog owners on their obedience competition journey. With years of experience as a renowned dog trainer, Nate understands the challenges that come with training for obedience competitions and offers practical advice that can make a difference in your dog’s performance.
One of Nate’s top training tips is to establish a strong foundation in obedience commands. Teaching your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, and come not only builds communication between you and your furry companion but also lays the groundwork for more advanced exercises in competitions. Nate emphasizes the importance of consistency and positive reinforcement during training sessions to encourage your dog’s learning and motivation.
In addition to obedience commands, Nate also emphasizes the value of incorporating mental stimulation into your dog’s training routine. Mental exercises, such as puzzle toys or scent detection games, keep your dog engaged and focused, helping them develop problem-solving skills and attentiveness. These activities can enhance your dog’s overall performance in obedience competitions.
| Nate’s Training Tips: |
|---|
| 1. Establish a strong foundation in obedience commands. |
| 2. Be consistent and use positive reinforcement during training sessions. |
| 3. Incorporate mental stimulation through puzzle toys and scent detection games. |
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Nate Schoemer trains dogs. His techniques work for all types of dogs. You can adjust his techniques to fit your dog. This means you can train your dog based on what your dog needs.
By following Nate’s expert advice and using his training tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering canine competition obedience.
Get in Touch with Nate Schoemer’s Academy
For obedience competition training, collaborate with Nate Schoemer’s Academy. Nate Schoemer, a highly skilled dog trainer, offers a variety of training options for dogs and their owners.
Your dog’s obedience, behavior, and performance can all be enhanced by enrolling in one of the many training programs available at Nate Schoemer’s Academy. If you want to train your dog to obey commands or participate in obedience competitions, Nate and his crew can help.
Each training session at Nate Schoemer’s Academy is designed specifically for your dog and uses a scientific approach to resolving behavioral issues. Nate’s training philosophy centers on determining and addressing the underlying causes of undesirable behaviors.
| Training Programs | Services |
|---|---|
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|
“Nate Schoemer’s Academy is dedicated to helping dog owners build a strong and harmonious relationship with their four-legged companions. Through our training programs and services, we aim to provide the knowledge, skills, and support necessary for success in obedience competitions.”
Whether you’re looking to compete at the Novice level or striving for success in the Utility class, Nate Schoemer’s Academy can equip you with the tools and techniques needed to excel. With training tips and techniques readily available through Nate’s YouTube channel, you can continue your dog’s training journey from the comfort of your own home.
Start your journey to mastering canine competition obedience today. Contact Nate Schoemer’s Academy and discover how their training programs and services can help you and your dog achieve your goals.
Conclusion
Finally, mastering canine competitive obedience demands specialized instruction to help your dog win in the arena. Obedience competitions train well-behaved dogs to complete tasks. AKC Obedience trials have three levels: Novice, Open, and Utility, with optional courses in between. Dogs must meet certain standards to compete.
Each lesson contains heeling, retrieving, and scent identification exercises for dogs. To qualify, dogs must achieve more than 50% of points for each exercise after deducting errors. Train dogs for obedience competitions to improve their manners, prevent undesirable behavior, and stimulate their minds.
Nate Schoemer, a famous dog trainer, is highly skilled. His scientific dog training has helped him win obedience competitions. Training at Nate Schoemer’s Academy emphasizes the necessity of a deep bond between dogs and their owners for arena success.
Well-trained dogs are obedient, loyal, and eager to please, strengthening owner-dog bonds. Mastering dog training takes time, but most behavioral concerns can be addressed with basic abilities. Nate Schoemer’s holistic obedience training addresses these issues’ core causes.
Visit Nate Schoemer’s YouTube channel for training advice. Ask Nate Schoemer’s Academy about their training programs and services. You may train your dog for competition obedience and win with expert advice.
FAQ
Q: What are obedience competitions and what are the requirements for dogs to compete in AKC Obedience trials?
A: Obedience competitions focus on training well-behaved dogs that can perform specific tasks.
Q: What are the different levels of competition in canine obedience?
A: There are three main levels of competition in canine obedience: Novice, Open, and Utility. Each level has different exercises that dogs must perform, with optional classes available in between.
Q: What exercises do dogs need to perform in obedience competitions?
A: Dogs in obedience competitions are required to perform exercises such as heeling, retrieving, and scent discrimination. These exercises test the dogs’ ability to follow commands and perform specific tasks accurately.
Q: How is scoring and qualification determined in obedience competitions?
A: Scoring in obedience competitions is based on deducting points for errors made during the exercises. Dogs need to earn more than 50% of points for each exercise to qualify for success in the competitions.
Q: What are the benefits of training for obedience competitions?
A: Training for obedience competitions strengthens a dog’s manners and behavior, preventing problem behaviors and providing mental stimulation. It also enhances the bond between the owner and the dog, leading to a stronger relationship.
Q: Who is Nate Schoemer and what is his training philosophy?
A: Nate Schoemer is a renowned dog trainer with extensive experience and expertise in the field. His training philosophy focuses on identifying and correcting the root causes of behavioral problems in dogs, leading to success in obedience competitions.
Q: Where can I find training tips and techniques from Nate Schoemer?
A: Training tips and techniques from Nate Schoemer can be found on his YouTube channel. These valuable resources provide guidance and support for those seeking success in obedience competitions.
Q: How can I get in touch with Nate Schoemer’s Academy for more information?
A: To learn more about training programs and services offered by Nate Schoemer’s Academy, you can contact them directly through their website or by reaching out to their customer service team.
