Training Expert Dogs to Hand-Off to Amateurs with Miranda Turenne

In this episode of K9 Conservationists, Kayla speaks with Miranda Turenne from Pacific Assistance Dogs Society about Assistance Dogs.

Science Highlight: Canine Olfaction: Scent, Sign, and Situation

How do you prep dogs for new/green handlers?

• Selection of the dogs is important
• Dogs that are highly biddable and highly task oriented
• Building foundation skills to fluency
• Training system created with the transfer to the client in mind
• Clean cues, proofing, generalization

How do you prep handlers for dogs? Can any handler (any dog) do this transition?

• Service dogs are not always the best choice, so the client must be prepared for a lifestyle change with a lot of work
• Proper matching helps with preparation
• Educational hours to ensure client is prepared with how to care for the dog
• In person hand off course to learn the tasks and behaviors as well as care
• Continuing education

What causes hiccups?

• Training
• Incompatibility
• Reinforcement history
• Lack of training mechanics in clients

Do you offer brush-up training or support?

• As much or as little as the client needs/wants
• Yearly recertification

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Training Without Conflict

Where to find Miranda: Website | Advanced Dogs Instagram | PADS Instagram | Miranda’s Instagram

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