Service Dog Training Helpful Links: ADA National Network Service Animal Resource Hub Massachusetts Laws: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/about-service-and-assistance-animals
Requirements for the Owner
• Have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Able to participate in training lessons over an extended period of time. The initial training can take a year, two, or even longer.• Able to commit time to practicing with your dog regularly between appointments.• Aware that you may end up with a dog that can only help at home or in places pets are allowed. Up to 50% of service dog candidates in programs are not able to complete training and work in places pets are not permitted.• Willing to wait until we evaluate your dog’s suitability and help you train your dog foundation skills before putting service dog identification on your dog and before taking your dog to places petsare not permitted.• Have support from your licensed healthcare provider for use of a service dog.
Requirements for the Dog
• No history of aggression towards dogs, people or other animals• Easily trained. A breed or mix likely to have characteristics suitable for service work such as Labradors and Golden retrievers. Each dog is assessed as an individual but some breeds are more likely to exhibit characteristics suitable for service work than others.• No history of any serious behavior problems like fear or separation anxiety• Under age 4, physically healthy.
Service Dog Training Process
Step 1 We begin with a conversation via email in which I can review your goals and current situation.
Step 2 We conduct an 60 minute evaluation of your dog. This is when we look at how your dog responds tosome minor stressors in a new situation to see if it is appropriate to begin training him or her for service work.FEE $100 ($2.00 per mile travel fee over 10 miles from Brookfield) A brief visit to a public area may be requested to learn more about your dog while near crowds. You will receive a emailed evaluation / recommendation within 3 days.
Step 3 Training for service work if your dog is suitable. This process usually takes 1 – 2 years but can takelonger. Process includes weekly private training. If you would like to take our group classes additionally, a 50% discount will apply to the group classes.
Step 4 Follow-up support. Help to maintain your dog’s training throughout your service dog’s working career.Fees (see Price sheet under Private Training)