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Dog Handling in Animal-Assisted Services Certificate
The purpose of this certificate is to enhance the knowledge, skills and values of individuals who currently or want to work with visitation or dogs assisting in animal-assisted services. This 6-week certificate program focuses on individual competency, proficiency and discretion through the use of evidence-based practices, the latest research, and guidance of experienced instructors, credentialed dog trainers, and experts in the area of animal assisted services. You will gain a better understanding of signs of stress in dogs, mitigating signs of stress in dogs, preparing the event space for safe interactions, and navigating a variety of human participants.
Program Benefits
- Adds to your credibility in volunteering with dogs
- Provides the educational foundation for those currently or interested in working with their therapy dogs in a health or human service setting
- Provides evidence of knowledge and skills necessary for improved interactions in the health and human service environment
- Learners earn a digital badge to provide evidence of knowledge and skills gained upon successful completion
Content Structure
- Six weekly one-hour live, virtual sessions
- Readings and media
- Short quizzes, discussions, and video submissions for evaluation of knowledge and skills
Who Should Attend
- Anyone who is currently a dog handler or interested in becoming a dog handler in visitation/support programs
- Anyone seeking professional development in animal-assisted services
- Anyone seeking continuing education hours for dog body language, communication, and advocating for dogs
- The virtual format allows learners to join from anywhere around the world
Learning Objectives
Learners completing this certificate program will be able to:
- Describe the traits of a dog handler necessary for working with participants.
- Explain the difference between the HAB and HAI.
- Explore the definition and application of mutual benefits in the HAB.
- Articulate the diamond model and review case scenarios.
- Advocate for the dog in complex situations with the participant.
- Recognize at least 5 signs of stress in dogs.
- Recognize at least 5 signs of relaxation in dogs.
- Identify and describe calming signals in dogs.
- Objectively observe and describe dog behaviors.
- Compare and Contrast the Five Freedoms and Five Domains.
- Participate in positive reinforcement training techniques and identify rewards valued by their dogs.
- Compare and contrast potential AATx/AAE/AASP sessions and expectations of dog/handler team.
- Align body language signs with emotional states in dogs.
- Advocate for the use of positive reinforcement training methods.
- Identify and apply appropriate terminology for interactions.
- Compare and contrast the diamond and triangle models of AAS.
- Assess a dog’s welfare before, during, and after a session.
- Incorporate the participant demographics into an AAS (interaction).
- Use the STEPs of Teamwork in a mock scenario.
- Describe techniques for engaging with a variety of populations.
- List Mental Health First Aid Basics.