Service Dog Training – Answering the Tough Questions with Veronica Sanchez

Service dog training can be extremely rewarding. Trainers have the opportunity to teach advanced skills, make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, and help dogs thrive. However, the complexities of service dog training also present unique situations. Veronica Sanchez, M.Ed., CPDT-KA, CDBC, dives into effective strategies for addressing difficult challenges faced by service dog trainers. In this webinar, we will delve into several challenges service dog trainers encounter:

Learning Objectives

1. Responding to Requests to Train Behaviorally Unsuited Dogs for Service Work: Trainers are often approached with requests to train dogs that may not be behaviorally appropriate for service work. These dogs and their guardians still benefit from and need training services, but trainers can find it challenging to approach these cases sensitively and effectively.
2. Managing “I Want to Bring My Dog on a Plane” Dilemmas: While such requests can be frustrating, these guardians often need education. Additionally, in some cases, the dogs may need behavior consultations for issues like separation anxiety.
3. Clarifying Industry Terminology Confusion: Trainers frequently encounter individuals who confuse industry terminology, such as clients requesting service dog training when they actually mean therapy dog training. Learn valuable strategies to provide this information quickly.
4. Addressing Unrealistic Expectations: Owner-trainers may have unrealistic expectations about the service dog training process. Explore the importance of initial “orientation” appointments within your intake process and training services.
5. Behavior Problems in Working Service Dogs: Behavior consultants increasingly face challenges when individuals with disabilities seek assistance for service dogs exhibiting serious behavior problems. Learn important considerations when supporting these clients and their dogs.
6. Requests for Potentially Unsafe or Unrealistic Tasks: Service dog trainers encounter clients who request service dog tasks that may pose safety concerns or may not be realistically achievable. Learn how to effectively respond to such requests.

By handling challenging situations with expertise, service dog trainers can make a profoundly positive impact on the lives of dogs, their guardians, and their communities.

Your Presenter – Veronica Sanchez M.Ed, CABC, CPDT-KA

Veronica Sanchez M.Ed, CABC, CPDT-KA is the founder of the Cooperative Paws Service Dog Coach™, an educational certification program for professional trainers in service dog training. Veronica also offers a variety of online courses on service dog training and often speaks and writes on service dogs for professional associations. She is the author of the book, Service Dog Coaching: A Guide for Pet Dog Trainers.

Veronica has a Masters degree in Education and a Bachelors in Psychology from George Mason University. She also has a Certificate in Brain Research in Education from the University of Washington. She has supported owner-trainers training service dogs for mobility, hearing, mental health, neurological problems and dual guide-mobility work. Veronica’s interest in service dogs is both personal and professional. She has a disability herself, a neurological condition called generalized dystonia, and she has trained her own dogs to assist as service dogs

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