Assistance Dog Instructor / Trainer
Core
Train and develop dogs for various assistance roles including PTSD support, assess dog temperament, and instruct clients on partnership care.
Role type
Senior IC assistance dog instructor/trainer
Builds
Assistance dog partnerships for clients with disability, blindness, low vision, and PTSD
Domain
Animal welfare + disability support services
Deliverable
physical/clinical work
Required skills
Canine learning theory, positive reinforcement training, dog behavior assessment, individualized training plan development, client instruction, trauma-informed practice
Preferred skills
Assistance dog training experience, disability support experience, AIDIA standards knowledge, community environment training
Technologies
N/A
Responsibilities
Train dogs for assistance roles, assess dog temperament and progression, develop individualized training plans, match dogs with clients, instruct clients on dog care, monitor partnership progress, provide follow-up support, promote dog welfare standards, contribute to program development
Seniority
Mid-level, hands-on IC