Training Your Own Service Dog
Telling Tails recommends the Owner Trained Service Dog program through A.C.T.S. for anyone interested in training their own mobility service dog. People interested in training dogs for PTSD or other psychiatric disabilities, seizure alert, or diabetic alert should contact an organization listed through Assistance Dogs International or a private trainer for assistance. Telling Tails does not offer training for service dogs of any kind at this time.
For information on the A.C.T.S. Owner Trained Dog program
If you have questions regarding owner trained service dogs.
IMPORTANT: Individuals interested in training their own service dogs should understand fully what the process involves. Most organizations take two years to train a service dog. During these two years, puppies go through extensive socialization and public access training. In addition, they learn to do tasks specific to their final partners' needs. Training is done by professionals with years of experience.
Training young puppies is not always easy. Individuals who wish to train their own dogs should consider both the mental and physical stamina required to take two years raising and training a puppy to be a service dog. In addition, persons training their own dogs should be prepared to rehome dogs that are not suitable for public access. Internationally it is accepted that half the dogs that start the process of service dog training are deemed inappropriate for public access and are released from programs or rehomed.
This work is not for every dog. If you have not selected a puppy, you might consider asking a professional who has been involved in service dog training for assistance in your selection process. Do not depend on the opinions of breeders and shelter workers. While these people are well meaning, they are not dog trainers and have not had any experience with the required traits of a service dog. If you already have your dog, you need to take an objective look at their suitability for the work.
IMPORTANT: If you are unsure if you qualify for a service dog, please feel free to contact me directly to discuss this. Federal law has very specific requirements for service dogs and their handlers. Emotional support dogs are NOT service dogs and have no rights under the law to be out in public places that generally do not allow dogs. The abuse of service dog status is currently a very "hot button" topic and you need to be sure you are very clear on your rights under the law. To ignore these laws is illegal and there are serious penalties.
MORE INFORMAITON ON SERVICE DOGS
State of New Hampshire Brochure
State of New Hampshire Service Dog Definitions
State of New Hampshire Service Dog Facts
