Assistance Dog

At Companion Canine Training, we understand the vital role that assistance dogs play in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our comprehensive assistance dog training program is designed to equip both dogs and handlers with the skills necessary to navigate everyday challenges and support independence.

Information

Assistance dog Training

At Companion Canine Training, we understand the vital role that assistance dogs play in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our comprehensive assistance dog training program is designed to equip both dogs and handlers with the skills necessary to navigate everyday challenges and support independence.

What is an Assistance Dog?

Assistance dogs are specially trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a person’s disability. These tasks can range from guiding the visually impaired and alerting the hearing impaired to providing stability and retrieving items for individuals with mobility impairments. Assistance dogs are recognized under the law as working animals, granting them access to public spaces alongside their handlers.

Our Training Approach

Our training programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client and their unique circumstances. We prioritize positive reinforcement techniques to foster a strong bond between the handler and their dog, ensuring reliable performance of essential tasks in various environments.

Services Offered

Assistance Dog Training: We provide comprehensive training for assistance dogs, focusing on obedience, task-specific skills, public access training, and behavior management.
 
Assistance Animal Pass Assessment: We offer assessments to dogs who are ready to apply for the Assistance Animal Pass through Public Transport Victoria and require a trainer to assess and sign the paperwork for application
 

Benefits of an Assistance Dog

Independence: Assistance dogs enable greater independence and confidence for individuals with disabilities.
Companionship: Beyond their functional role, assistance dogs provide emotional support and companionship to their handlers.
 Enhanced Quality of Life: By assisting with daily tasks, assistance dogs enhance quality of life by reducing dependence on others.


Get Started

If you need support with an existing service animal, please contact us to discuss your needs. We are here to assist you in every step of the journey towards achieving greater independence.

Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Sharee at Companion Canine Training or Life is Worth Living. We look forward to supporting you and your canine companion on this meaningful journey.

NDIS
Please see Life is Worth Living for more information.
https://lifeisworthliving.com.au/

Public Transport Victoria

Assistance animal pass

 

 
Professional Evaluation for Your Assistance Dog
Are you seeking to obtain a public transport pass for your assistance dog?
Our expert assessment service ensures that your canine companion meets all necessary criteria for safe and effective assistance in public transportation settings.
Our Service Includes:
  • Comprehensive in-person assessment
  • Evaluation of dog-handler interactions
  • Assessment of public behavior and task performance
  • Completion of required paperwork for transport pass application
  • Detailed written report of the assessment
  • 30-minute follow-up consultation

Why Choose Our Assessment Service?
  • Experienced and qualified assistance dog trainer
  • Thorough understanding of public transport requirements
  • Objective evaluation to ensure safety and compliance
  • Professional documentation to support your application

The Assessment Process
  1. Initial Contact: Reach out to schedule your assessment and discuss any specific needs.
  2. Pre-Assessment: We’ll provide information on what to expect and how to prepare.
  3. In-Person Evaluation: Our trainer will assess your dog’s behavior and abilities.
  4. Documentation: We’ll complete all necessary paperwork for your transport pass application.
  5. Follow-Up: Receive a report and participate in a consultation to address any questions.

Pricing
Please contact us for current rates and availability.
We strive to offer competitive pricing while ensuring the highest quality assessment for you and your assistance dog.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the assessment take?
A: The in-person assessment typically takes between 60-90 minutes, with additional time for paperwork and follow-up.
Q: What should I bring to the assessment?
A: Please bring your assistance dog, any equipment they typically use, and any existing documentation related to their training or status.  If you usually travel with a support person, or secondary handler, it is a good idea for them to also attend.
Q: How soon can I get an appointment?
A: We aim to schedule assessments within 2-3 weeks of initial contact, depending on current demand.
Q: Where does the assessment take place?
A: Typically the assessment is
Q: What if my dog doesn’t pass the assessment?
A: We’ll provide detailed feedback and recommendations for areas of improvement, with the option to schedule a reassessment after additional training.
We offer a discount on reassessments scheduled within 3 months of the initial assessment, giving you time to address any areas needing work while making the process more affordable.
Q: Is this assessment guaranteed to get my dog a public transport pass?
A: While our assessment is thorough and aligned with local requirements, the final decision for issuing a pass rests with Public Transport Victoria. Our assessment and documentation significantly support your application.
Q: Where does the assessment take place?
A: The assessment typically begins at Lara train station. We’ll meet you there and conduct the assessment by taking a short train trip to the next station and back. This allows us to evaluate your assistance dog’s behavior and skills in a real public transport environment.
Q: Should I bring anything specific for the train journey part of the assessment?
A: Please bring any equipment you would normally use when traveling with your assistance dog, such as a suitable harness, leash, and any necessary identification. If your dog performs specific tasks for you during travel, bring any items needed for these tasks.
Q: Why is the assessment conducted at a train station and on a train?
A: Conducting the assessment in an actual public transport setting allows us to accurately evaluate how your assistance dog behaves in the environment where they’ll be working. The train journey helps us assess the dog’s ability to:
  • Navigate platforms and train carriages
  • Remain calm during boarding and disembarking
  • Stay focused on their handler despite distractions
  • Maintain appropriate behavior around other passengers
  • Respond to commands in a noisy, moving environment This real-world testing is crucial for ensuring your dog is ready for regular public transport use.