Service-dog trainers become certified through training programs.
Service dogs are specially trained animals that provide assistance to those with physical or psychological disabilities. These dogs make it possible for disabled individuals to live life as normally as possible and to participate in activities they otherwise could not. Training service dogs takes time and skill. Becoming a certified service dog trainer requires dedication, effort, and some training of your own from a service-dog training facility. These programs are offered throughout the country for individuals interested in pursuing a service-dog training career.
Instructions
1. Research dog-trainer programs you may be interested in, such as the Service Dog Training Seminar offered by Bergin University of Canine Studies in California. These programs are also offered throughout the country through different organizations. Determine which program best suits your interests.
2. Volunteer with the school of your choice or apply for a job within the school. This gets your name out there and puts you ahead of the competition when it comes time to fill a rare vacancy in the training program.
3. Apply to one or more programs and complete the coursework required by the program once accepted.
4. Keep yourself in top physical condition. Some of the dogs you work with may be very large, very energetic or both. You will be required to exercise these dogs, play with them and keep up with them during long training sessions.
5. Attend conferences and workshops. These are offered throughout the country at different times and regarding different subjects. Conference or workshop material may cover topics including but not limited to aggression, training, dog ownership or fearful dogs. This extra training keeps you up to date in your field.
6. Read as much dog-related information as you can. Read about training dogs (for service work or just training in general), dog health, dog behavior, dog breeds and so forth. This helps you to work with dogs in a knowledgeable way.
7. Be patient. Becoming a service-dog trainer takes time. Most programs require a potential trainer to complete an apprenticeship before becoming a certified trainer, and the training program along with the apprenticeship may take up to five years to complete.
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