Ideally, the process
of raising a service dog begins with a 7-8 week old puppy. The first few weeks
of training involve socialization and house training. Puppies learn to SIT
and WAIT by the time they are 3 months old and are usually completely house
trained by then as well.
The kennel method
is used in which puppies are kenneled in a travel kennel or crate whenever
it is unsupervised. This aids in house training and prevents the puppy from
chewing or engaging in other destructive behaviors when left alone. Because
dogs are naturally “den” animals, the kennel becomes their place
of rest and refuge.
During weekly
puppy classes facilitated by CCFS trainers, foster trainers learn how to
train their puppy in basic obedience skills including SIT, DOWN, STAY, COME,
HEEL.
These essential
commands are the building blocks upon which the dog will eventually learn
to respond to at least 70 different commands.
Raising a service dog puppy does not require a monumental amount of time, but
it does require patience and consistency. CCFS trainers teach foster trainers
how to incorporate training activities into their normal daily routine. Many
of the training techniques foster families learn are different from standard
obedience training techniques.
Socialization
is extremely important to a service dog puppy’s success. Foster trainers
are encouraged to take their puppy to as many community locations as possible
to familiarize the puppy with different sights, sounds, smells, surfaces
to walk on, people, etc. North Carolina and South Carolina state statutes
grant service dogs in training the same public access rights guaranteed a
certified service dog through the Americans with Disabilities Act. As long
as the dog is identified by it’s Carolina Canines For Service, Inc.,
it can go to any public place including
stores, malls, restaurants, grocery stores, theatres, beaches, etc. It is
recommended that the foster family advise store owners and managers of their
presence in a public place to avoid any confusion.
Educating the public regarding
service dogs and people with disabilities is an important role the foster
trainer has during community outings with their service dog puppy.
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