What is Co-Train?

Co-Train is designed to equip qualified clients in the Central Ohio

area with the knowledge and skills to choose and train their own

psychiatric service dog, under the expert coaching and watchful

eye of our experienced BSD training staff.  Co-Train is also suitable

for those requiring medical response dogs and those with light

mobility needs.  Your eligibility for Co-Train will be determined at

your client assessment interview.

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What are Psychiatric Service Dogs?

Nearly half of the requests BSD receives are for psychiatric service

dogs.  These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that assist

in the management of severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD,

OCD and more.

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What are the benefits of Co-Train vs. obtaining a fully trained dog from BSD?

Fee Reduction.  The average cost of a psychiatric service dog trained by BSD is about $17,000.  Because Co-Train

clients will house their own dogs and do the majority of the training, our fees for the Co-Train program are $7,500.

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Other Benefits:

• If the client’s pet passes our evaluation, it can be trained it to become a psychiatric service dog.

• If the participant does not have a suitable dog, we will provide the instruction and guidance to help select the right dog. (Please don’t go choose a dog before being accepted into the program and receiving our input on dog selection.)

• Clients experience satisfaction and a sense of empowerment as they train their own dogs.

• You will participate in a fun and challenging group learning experience with other students with similar diagnosis.

• Upon graduation, Co-Train students will receive a diploma from BSD stating you have completed the class and your dog meets the legal criteria for a psychiatric service dog.

• Graduates will be invited to all BSD public outings and events. During these outings you can receive ongoing instruction or follow-up help with your dog.  You will also enjoy meeting other trainers and clients, socializing and swapping dog stories.

 

What are the eligibility criteria for the Co-Train program?

• A psychiatric or medical condition that significantly limits your ability to live a fulfilling life.

• 14 years or older

• Submit an application to and have an assessment appointment with BSD.

• Determined by BSD to be a good candidate for the program.

• You must live in the Central Ohio area and/or be willing to travel weekly for 12-15 weeks to Sunbury, Ohio, in order to participate in Co-Train classes.  Many of our clients commute from all over Ohio.

• The class fee of $7,500 is due two weeks before the start of class.

 

What if I miss a class?

Your instructor will be available for 30 minutes prior to class each week to review the previous session and help those who missed previously.  Zoom and in-person make-up sessions are also available.  

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How do I apply?

Please follow the link to submit your online application:  

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