Looking for service dog training ? Available in Shelburne, Alliston, and Barrie areas
Certified Service Dog Coach
As a Certified Service Dog Coach, our trainers' role with clients is multi-faceted. Clients registered into our program receive ongoing support by phone, email, zoom and in person.
Whether you are an owner-trainer or adopt one of our program dogs, we provide support and training for service dogs from puppy-hood to their senior days.
Accepting Applications
At Outrun we can help pair you with the right team mate to meet your needs. If you already have a dog, we can work with you to provide the training that you will need to help your dog become task oriented.
Our program trained dogs are either Shelter to Service Rescues or dogs bred for service work. If you are interested in our Shelter to Service program, please contact us for more information.
We are now accepting service dog applications.
Owner Trained vs Program Raised Service Dogs
Living with a disability is a daily struggle for many of us. Service animals can be life changing, providing much-needed freedom to their handlers.
The owner trained service dog is a 14 month program where the handler trains their own service dog with weekly guidance. Total of approx. 120 hours of dog training with a certified dog trainer.
Are you an Owner-Trainer? Are you looking to find a service dog to join your family? We can help.
Service Dog Program STEP 1 - Application
During training, the handler must provide their own equipment (collar, leash, vest, and treats). OARC will not start any service dog training or assessments until the paperwork is received and proof of disability is given. Download the application (above) and email completed forms to training@outrunrescue.com
Service Dog Program STEP 2 - Assessment
An initial assessment must be done of the dog for service dog work. This assessment is done in a public setting and covers temperament only (not obedience) and takes approx.1 hour to complete. The dog must be a minimum of six months of age to be assessed.
Service Dog Program STEP 3 - Basic-Obedience
If the team passes its assessment, they begin basic obedience classes starting with a 6-week session. This time serves as an initial trial period where the dog and handler are further evaluated for the handler’s ability to manage a dog and the dog’s temperament and trainability.
Any issues with the dog or the handler’s ability to manage a dog will be identified during this trial period should further service dog training not be advisable.
Service Dog Program STEP 4 - Advanced-Obedience
If the team passes its assessment and their basic obedience, they begin a 6-week session (6 x 1 hour training sessions) to refine their team's obedience skills around distractions.
Any issues with the dog or the handler’s ability to manage a dog will be identified during this trial period should further service dog training not be advisable.
Service Dog Program STEP 5 - Public Access Training and Task Training
Service dog training begins after advanced obedience has been completed. This training will be focused on teaching the required tasks.
Upon conclusion of the training, OARC dog trainer will administer a practice Public Access Test (PAT) to ensure the team is ready for any required provincial testing.
