Psychosocial Assistance Dogs
Psychosocial / Psychiatric Assistance Dogs
This is an area of training that is unfortunately increasing in need. The demand for psychosocial / psychiatric assistance dogs is at an all-time high, with many people choosing to train their own dogs under the guidance of a professional trainer linked with an organisation that provide a framework, support and Public Access Testing (PAT) Certification.
I am a preferred trainer for two such Organisations: MindDog and Assistance Paws. I am also an Assessor for these organisations.
What is a psychosocial/psychiatric assistance dog?Psychosocial / Psychiatric Assistance Dogs are used by people of all ages that are affected by conditions such as Severe Anxiety, Clinical Depression, Autism, ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD ( War Veterans), for example. These dogs will act intuitively to give you support when needed. Many of the behaviours the dogs offer is not trained responses but are a direct result of the change in your body’s regulation. Their ability to react to you instinctively is what determines whether the dog is going to prove a suitable Assistance Dog. As your trainer, I can give you the skills and knowledge to achieve the training standard necessary to pass the Public Access Test (PAT). As a Trainee, you have access to most areas of the public domain. Once you have passed the PAT you are able to take your dog to a few more places and activities that as a trainee you were not permitted, such as flying, staying overnight in hospitals. You are covered under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. There are a few exceptions such as operating theatres and commercial kitchens where access is not allowed. If you are thinking about applying for an organisation such as Mind Dog, Assistance Paws, etc. and would like your dog to be assessed for suitability, I can undertake a suitability assessment for you. This will avoid the risk of being advised that your application will not be processed at that time, because your dog is exhibiting some behavioural traits that are inappropriate for assistance dogs. Shadia H."Yvonne has worked with all of my dogs for over 15 years. I highly recommend her services, whether you are looking for help with general behavioural and training issues or wanting to train an assistance or therapy dog. Yvonne has a wealth of knowledge and understands how to work with people with disabilities. She is clearly passionate about her work and gives structured and easy-to-follow instructions and feedback. I am grateful for her support during the assistance dog training and accreditation process."
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