Service Dog SOS

Service Dog S.O.S.

Dog trainers see service dog training as an easy way to make a lot of money (it isn't "easy" if done properly and with integrity). So, many dog trainers (or hopefuls) now advertise service dog training with little or no experience with disabled persons or proper service dog selection and proven training methods. Many of these trainers do not offer adequate follow-up to their teams.
Assistance Dogs International recently began requiring their programs to use only force free/positive only methods, rather than balanced training which includes both reinforcement good behavior and the humane physical correction of poor behavior. I believe this will result (often within the first year after placement) in dogs that degrade in their public behavior and task training (because poor outcomes are not corrected). Because correction is needed in order to change the dog's behavior, these programs will not have adequate solutions for their clients within their positive only training model. Please look for my upcoming article on why PO/FF training isn't sufficient for service dog training and handling.
Many handlers who are training or have trained their own SD are in need of some level of coaching. Perhaps they have a nagging problem they can't get past, or they would like help with one task. Maybe they need some input in dog selection, or whether their current dog is a fit for service dog work.

What kind of help does Service Dog SOS offer?

Dog/Team Assessment. By thoroughly interviewing the handler and observing the team's partnership, we will give you an honest assessment of your dog's temperament and your suitability as a team. We will give you input on your dog's obedience, task work, and public behavior. Depending on the result of this assessment, we will give you our best plan for a way to move forward in your partnership. We will also give our assessment of whether your dog is a suitable candidate, and if we see any reasons a service dog might not be the best choice for you at this time.
If, after our assessment, you wish to enlist further help from us, we will customize a plan to move forward with identifiable and attainable goals. This plan may include training equipment changes, private lessons, participation in BSD outings, zoom sessions, or assistance in locating a more suitable animal. Typically the plan will include a short series of lessons working on specific goals.

What kind of things can SOS help me fix?

While we can't promise to fix any issue without first evaluating the team, in general, we are experienced in correcting the following types of problems:

Basic and advanced obedience issues at home and in public. Leash pulling, slow sits/downs, inconsistent stays
Poor manners such as jumping on people or seeking attention in public. Stealing food, excited barking, fidgeting, and other poor behavior
Tasking consistency, refinement, or teaching of new tasks
Boost your dog's confidence in unfamiliar situations by instructing you on seven confidence building techniques
Assess dog reactivity and determine if it is fixable. (If not, your dog needs to be removed from service)
Improvement of handlers skills and knowledge base
Equipment adjustments to allow for more control

I need help with my dog. Am I eligible?

You are likely eligible for help if:

You are self-training your dog and need outside input, coaching, or assistance from an experienced trainer.
You are willing to utilize humane and balanced training techniques (correct poor behavior with appropriate equipment).
You have worked hard with your original trainer and done what they asked. Consequently, you are ready to work hard and follow our instructions to the best of your ability.
You have exhausted all help from your original trainer. They either are refusing to help, or their follow-up has not solved the issues you are having.
Your original trainer is open to assistance from us.

NOTE: Many non-profit programs retain ownership ownership of the dog for life. Our SOS program will not work with a dog that does not legally belong to the handler. Also please carefully read any program contracts you may have signed to determine what consequences you may incur by allowing outside trainer to work with you and your dog.

Are you trying to "steal" clients from other programs?

Absolutely not. I'm not desperate for clients. I regularly refer clients to other private trainers or non-profit programs that I'm confident can serve the person well. I will always encourage clients to seek problem resolution with their providing organization. Our SOS program is simply responding to what I feel is a gap in service created by the variables I've mentioned above.

Do you offer online help?

Yes. You may participate in our SOS program through Zoom if distance does not allow you to meet in person.

How much does SOS cost?

Your initial 2-hour assessment is $150.00. After that, if it is appropriate, I will draw up a plan and I will provide a quote for a series of 4 lessons (typical fee $500.00).

How do I find out more?

Please email Christy at BuckeyeServiceDogs@gmail.com and write SOS on the subject line.

easy.

What is Service Dog SOS?

Through Service Dog SOS, Christy Talbert offers her 40+ years experience to assist current service dog handlers, owner trainers, and trainers who are struggling with a dog's behavior, tasking, or partnership.

Why is BSD offering this program?

While I have always been periodically contacted by people needing assistance with non-BSD program dogs, I believe this problem is increasing and will continue to do so exponentially. There are several reasons for the uptick of owner-trainers and handlers needing assistance: