Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) and Hanrob College have partnered to deliver a nationally recognised qualification for future Assistance Dog trainers.
The new Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training from Hanrob College allows students to complete practical components at ADA’s National Training Centre in Sydney and is the only program of its kind in Australia.
Tim Taylor, CEO of ADA, said there is currently no clear career pathway for potential professional Assistance Dog trainers.
“The course is an important step in setting a new benchmark for the professional training and accreditation of Assistance Dogs, which is a win for both aspiring trainers and Assistance Dog recipients.
“Partnering with Hanrob College allows ADA to set a precedent for quality and consistency from an industry-driven perspective.”
The course also includes the opportunity to care for and train an Assistance Dog puppy during the 14-month course. The first cohort of nine students commenced in April, with the next intake set for June.
Andrew Biggs, CEO of Hanrob College, expressed his excitement of the course’s launch.
“We are privileged to be partnering with ADA to shape the next generation of Assistance Dog trainers and nurture the bond between humans and canines, one qualification at a time.”
Training an Assistance Dog takes two years and costs over $60,000. The dog is then provided to the client at no cost. Clients include people with physical disabilities, PTSD, and autism.
For more information about the ACM40321 – Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training with Assistance Dog specialisation, click here.