Training

Dog AID Training Scheme

There are 3 levels of training, each level building upon the previous level.  The specialised tasks to help the client can be taught to the dog from level one once the dog has basic obedience and the ability to concentrate. Specialist tasks are not formally assessed until the end of the training programme.  In order to progress to the second and third level of training, the dog needs to have a steady temperament, to be able to cope with the stress of meeting novel objects/sounds and going into new situations.  The client, (and household/family) need to have a commitment to the training and socialisation of the dog.
Not all clients progress beyond Level 1 or Level 2. This may be because the client is satisfied with what has been achieved or because the dog is not suitable to go onto Assistance Dog work.
At Level 2 the dog and owner learn a variety of skills to prepare them for being in public places.  Dogs are also required to undergo further socialisation and familiarisation.  For suitable dogs it is possible to move onto Level 3.  At Level 3 the client will be able to go into public places with a Dog AID trainer and train both control exercises and specialised tasks in the environment.
As well as passing the assessment at the end of each level the dog will also be assessed for its suitability to progress to the next level. The dog’s temperament, recovery rate, if disturbed by an event or situation, and ability to cope with stress will be important factors in this assessment. The ability of the client to handle their dog outside of their home environment will also be assessed.

Click here: Level 1

Click here: Level 2

Click here: Level 3

If you are an experienced and progressive Dog Trainer please click here

 

Applying for Training

We feel it is important to keep you up to date with our current situation. Dog AID is composed entirely of voluntary dog trainers who give their time and expertise freely. The scheme has become very popular over the last few years, with many more people applying than we can accommodate. Currently many of our trainers are working to full capacity. Consequently we are putting many potential clients on a waiting list, often for a considerable length of time, (1-2 years). Therefore we cannot guarantee you a place on the scheme. If you do not yet have a dog and intend getting a dog purely so you can train it up to help you we strongly advise you not to get a dog unless we have a trainer available for you at that time.

Procedure for Applying To Dog AID

1. Register your interest in joining the Dog AID scheme by filling in and returning the two forms entitled 'Register An Interest In Receiving Dog AID Training'


2. If we are able to match you with a trainer straight away we will contact you to let you know and you will then need to send in a complete application consisting of completed vet's form, references, contract, a letter from your doctor and the form 'Information on Potential Client' which will be passed onto your trainer.

3. If we are not able to match you up with a trainer we will keep your details on our waiting list and should we have a trainer available in the future we will then contact you.

Waiting Clients

We now have a team of people who are searching for suitable trainers to match up to clients on our waiting list. Whilst there is no guarantee of finding a trainer we are doing our best to attract trainers in the areas where there is a need.

 

Donate direct via Charities Aid Foundation

CAF banner