TrainingProgram

Our training program is a 4 phase process. Once the dogs are selected to participate in the program they
undergo extensive medical and temperament testing to make sure they will be able to successfully fulfill the
needs of their partner. At any time during their training dogs may be released into our Career Change Dog
program for temperament or medical problems. The phase length is subject to change due to the dog's prior
training or learning ability.

Phase 1: 0-2 weeks

This is actually a "decompression" period. During this time the dogs are allowed to integrate into the
household and learn the rules without any additional demands being placed on them. This allows the shelter
dogs time to relax and regain their bearings after having been in an unfamiliar, high stress environment. We
are able to observe their reactions to situations and use this to structure their training program so that we can
set the dog up for success.

Phase 2: 2 weeks - 6 months

The length of this phase actually depends on the prior training of the dog, the dog's age, and their learning
capabilities. This is where the dogs receive basic obedience (come, stay, sit, down) and the retrieve is
introduced. Distractions will also be introduced (cats, other animals, children, equipment, livestock, etc.).
They will also begin familiarization work with the tasks on the Service Dog Public Access Test. At this point
the dog is matched up with their future partner so we can begin their specific skill training. At the end of
Phase 2 each dog will test for their Canine Good Citizen Award.

Phase 3: 6 months to 18 months

This is the phase where the dogs really get into their specific training. They have been paired up with their
future partner so we can begin teaching them the tasks they will need to perform. They will also continue
work on their Public Access Tasks. The dogs will also experience working in a variety of different
environments. When the dog is completing their tasks 90% of them time they are ready to move into the final
phase...pairing with their partner!

Phase 4: 7- 14 Days

Phase 4 is the final phase where handler and dog come together to learn to work as a team. The duration of
this phase depends on the type of dog the handler is receiving. During this time the handler will learn the
proper care and handling of their new partner. Together the team will complete the Service Dog Public Access
Test. Upon successful completion there is a graduation ceremony and the handler is handed the leash to
become an official Graduate. The new team is ready to go out and regain their independence and freedom!

Following Up

We never leave our teams! Our new teams are contacted daily by telephone for the first week. After that first
week, barring any unforeseen problems it will switch to weekly for another month, then to monthly for the first
year. Once the first year is completed smoothly teams will be contacted twice a year to check in and if
additional training is needed it will be scheduled. Our teams are more than welcome to enlist the help of a
trainer in their area if it is more convenient to help them maintain the team's abilities.

Our instructors remain in close contact with the team on an ongoing basis through e-mails, reports, and
provides advice either by e-mail or the telephone. If it is necessary the instructor will travel to resolve any
problems the team may be having at home or work. Teams are always welcome to contact their instructor
with any problem no matter how small. We will never leave a team behind!