Happy Dog by Bryan Litchford CPDT-KA, owner of PCD TRAINING, and author of the book Excuse Me Sir… Do You Speak Dog?

Help my dog ate my couch!
I don’t think there is a week that goes by that I don’t get a phone call from a frantic dog owner crying foul. My dog ate my couch, my dog destroyed my backyard, my dog scattered the trash or my dog barks non stop. Although there can be numerous reasons for these behaviors and numerous solutions, in this post, I am going to focus on what I consider the most common issue: boredom. (more…)

Service Dog Trainers. We all need a furry friend to help make our days brighter. Some people rely on trained service animals to make life more accessible.

What is a Service Dog?

By definition, service dogs are trained working animals that specialize in helping a person with disabilities.

Trained service dogs help with a variety of tasks.  For example, service dogs can alert owners of ringing phones, beeping oven timers, and even a crying child. 

Do service dogs fall under the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Yes! The ADA §35.104 defines Service Dogs as “any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal who is trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.”

How does a dog train to be a service animal?

Service dogs undergo extensive training for many basic obedience commands and any necessary behavior changes to pass a  Public Access Certification Test (PACT). After training, a dog becomes an ADA Certified Service Dog.

Service Dog Trainers

Becoming a service dog trainer requires specialized education, hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of canine behavior. Many trainers start by working with animals in shelters or obedience classes before pursuing certification through organizations like Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Courses in animal behavior, positive reinforcement techniques, and disability awareness are essential. Gaining apprenticeship experience with experienced trainers further refines skills needed to train service dogs effectively.

Are there any “fake” service dog training companies out there?

Unfortunately, yes. No national certification exists for service dogs in this country. Above all, it’s important to do your research for safe training places. Book a service dog trainer on Petworks today. 

About the Author

Ira Smith trains in Fundamental Obedience to a maximum proficiency level. With over 40 years of training experience, and no need to invest in additional equipment, The K-9 Handler® training is the best value around. 

What Makes Petworks Such A Great Dog Training Platform. For dog parents seeking professional training services, finding the right trainer who aligns with their pet’s needs can be overwhelming. Petworks simplifies this process by offering a seamless platform where pet owners can connect with experienced dog trainers nationwide. With its extensive network of certified professionals, transparent pricing, and user-friendly interface, Petworks has become a trusted resource for dog training services.

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Stray Dogs in the United States: Challenges and Solutions. Stray dogs are a significant issue in the United States, with an estimated 3.3 million dogs entering shelters annually, many of which are abandoned or lost. While some strays are reunited with their owners, many face pet euthanasia or struggle to survive on the streets. Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach involving responsible pet ownership, spay and neuter programs, and stronger community involvement.

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How to Get a Dog: A Comprehensive Guide. Adding a dog to your family is an exciting and life-changing decision. Dogs bring joy, companionship, and love, but they also require time, effort, and responsibility. Before taking this step, it’s crucial to understand the process of getting a dog and ensure you’re ready for the commitment. This guide walks you through every stage, from deciding if you’re ready to bringing your furry friend home and helping them thrive.

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