Minimum Standards for Trainers
Service-dog.org.au has minimum standards for its trainers pertaining to all assistance dog programs. It is an expectation that these levels will function as a baseline and not a routine fixture.
- All Minimum Standards and Ethics as stipulated by service-dog.org.au must be met and maintained in compliance by all trainers.
- The annual revue must prove that trainers have formed effective teams prescribed in service-dog.co.au standards ( i.e. task specific tests and the Public Access Test).
- Current knowledge in the best practice of most of the following must be exhibited by trainers: various training techniques, canine behavior, learning theory, safety and care of canines
- Verifiable proof must be shown by trainers in: skills in communication, tutoring of individuals and groups, problem resolution and assessment skills, self performance review and improvement
- Demonstrable proof by trainers must indicate: full knowledge of the dynamics of matching client and dog, the wider dynamics including family, school, community, workplace environment and their effects on the team, wise discernment when a process or course of training can be terminated
- Since trainers have a public responsibility, they must: have complete awareness of applicable canine laws (i.e. public access laws, leash laws), foster good relationships with clients, volunteers, co-workers and community at large, observe correct public consideration when working with client or dog in issues such as: politeness, respect and consideration towards private property, along with good canine and personal hygiene.
- Basic issues such as good canine and personal hygiene as well as consideration in public of politeness, and consideration for peoples private property.
- Have a readiness to educate the populace in all issues pertaining to access rights and service dogs.