10 Steps to Increased Independance
Step OneSubmit a client inquiry form and answer the questions in as much detail as possible. If you have any questions while filling out the form, please don't hesitate to call our Client Services Coordinator. You can fill out our client inquiry form online, download it to submit by mail or fax or contact our office to have one mailed or faxed to you.
Step Two
Our training department will then review the inquiry and determine whether you are eligible for an assistance dog from PADS. If you qualify, we will send you the appropriate application package. Return the completed written application form, medical reference form, personal reference form and a non-refundable $50 application fee.
Step Three
After review and check of all references, the Client Services Coordinator will contact you to schedule a personal interview. The one-on-one interview allows the staff to discuss the specific needs of the applicant, the ability to properly care for a dog and determine the client's commitment to the process. The training department reviews the interview results and application information to determine acceptance to our program.
Step Four
If you are accepted, you are placed on our waiting list for a service, hearing or therapy dog. While on the waiting list, it can be some time before one of our staff will contact you (12-36 months) depending on the type of dog you have applied for. Don't worry, our training department will be working very hard to find the right match for you based on the needs specified in the application process and the dogs we have in our program. We know how hard the wait is and your patience is appreciated!
Step Five
When PADS determines a dog is available that fits your needs, you will be contacted and scheduled to attend our next team training class. If you live out-of-town, you will be invited to stay in our client centre located at our Training Facility in Burnaby, BC. You may need to rent any specific equipment to meet your ADL needs. A list of amenities will be provided in your team training manual.
Step Six
Our client team training is a two-week class training program for service dogs, and five days for our hearing and therapy dog training program. Team training consists of lectures, information, practice and community outings with your new canine partner. This time starts the bonding process that will last a lifetime.
Step Seven
After completing team training, you and your new assistance dog return home for a 45-day probation while you are adjusting and learning to work together in your home, work and/or school environments. You are required to complete a number of Self-Evaluation forms. A follow-up visit to your site will be approximately 45 days after placement to help with any problem solving and issues that can arise with the dog changing environments. Once the probationary period is complete, the Assistance Dogs International Public Access Test is administered.
Step Eight
The ADI Public Access Test is administered to determine eligibility for safe public access with the new team. Passing this test is required before you are fully certified as a team.
Step Nine
Pacific Assistance Dogs is there to support you and your dog for the life of your dog. Our training staff is available for assistance with continued training and with public access issues. Follow-ups and Public Access Tests will be required throughout the dog's placement. Public Access tests are usually done every 12 months.
Step Ten
The result of all this hard work and dedication is a new beginning for you with a highly skilled canine partner to improve your quality of life