Ever wanted to have a service dog? - Page 2

SunSilver,

I would imagine that you can "google" for it(IE, service dog certification in Canada)....I am on my way out the door right now to train dogs, otherwise, I might....but, hey, you have "google", Right?

THere are a couple of things about a "trainer" certifying, that you should be aware of....

When I "certify" a dog for someone, I am there, through thick and thin, for the working life of that dog.  If you have an access issue 4 yrs from now, I will go to bat for you.

I also require yearly re-certification----otherwise I pull support.  It doesn't cost anymore, unless more work is needed(other than a certifcation test)

I video tape all certification tests, etc....and, I hire a second trainer to also certify the dog. 

Before it is all said and done, I usually have 20-30 hours wrapped up in the process.  Not to mention, cost of hiring a second trainer, etc....

Now, my certification testing is tough.  Most people don't want to put forth the effort to do it....but....so be it....

Now, I said all that, to say this:  While her pricing might seem off to you, please do not begrudge her payment for her time and effort.  That said, research her, and ask for references first.

Also, many people say their dogs are trained, but when it comes right down to it, they aren't trained well enough to suit me, which means I have wasted time.  I am not saying that your dog is this way, I am just saying in general!

Also, in Canada, doesn't a certifying body have to be a member of ADI?

DogTrainer, she was just starting out, gave me no references, and was very slow to respond to my e-mail queries. Did NOT leave a good impression, even before she broke contact.

I was in a Yahoo group for those who wanted to train their own dogs, but it is now defunct. Googling gets me tons of links for the States, but very little for Canada beyond the inevitable Yahoo chat groups...

I have had 2 people offer to help me with this, one in the States and one in Ontario. Neither one followed through on their promises...

YES, I am somewhat FRUSTRATED!!