2010 TRAINING CALENDAR
March 13 & 14 - Delta Training Workshop: This is a 2 day workshop to learn what is involved with becoming a therapy team (handler) with your animal (just for people, no dogs, cats, etc.), see additional information below. Delta Workshop Registration Form and Directions
April 10 - Delta Evaluation: This is a 30 minute test that will evaluate you and your animal for being registered with Delta Society. You must register in advance to take this evaluation. Evaluation Registration Form
May 1 - Reading Education Assistance Dog Training Workshop: This is a 5 hour workshop to train handlers to work with children in school and library settings. R.E.A.D. Workshop Registration Form
September 11 & 12 - Delta Training Workshop: This is a 2 day workshop to learn what is involved with becoming a therapy team (handler) with your animal (just for people, no dogs, cats, etc.). Delta Workshop Registration Form and Directions
There will be another Reading Education Assistance Dog Training Workshop in the fall, check back for date. There will also be additional Delta Evaluation dates posted.
WE NOW ACCEPT PAYPAL FOR ALL REGISTRATION FEES!
1) Download the appropriate registration forms above and complete them first to determine the amount you will need to pay for the workshop you are taking.
2) Return to this page and click on the PayPal button below and enter the amount due. In the memo field in PayPal be sure to indicate your name and the workshop you are paying for (title and date).
3) You will need to mail your workshop registration form to our office after submitting payment on line. If you prefer to pay by check, please follow the instructions on the registration form.
Obedience Training
Having an obedient dog is a big part of passing the Delta evaluation. If you feel you and your dog could benefit from some basic obedience training or would like a refresher course, please see the link on the left to see a list of trainers associated with our group.
2 Day Workshop at our Valley Cottage Campus
The Delta Society Pet Partner® handler training workshop is a two day workshop to prepare prospective volunteers tovisit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities with their dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and other domestic pets.
Our members have been visiting nursing homes, assisted living homes, day programs, schools, and hospitals throughout the Rockland and North Bergen County since 1993.
Delta Society is a national organization that trains, screens, and insures volunteers and their pets for Animal Assisted Therapy. Over 6,400 Delta Pet Partner teams now operate in all 50 states and five countries, brightening the lives of nearly a million people each year.
“The handler training is what sets Delta Society apart from other organizations,” says program director Dolores Schaub. “The workshop is for people, not their pets, and we cover everything from the traits that make an animal suitable for pet therapy to training techniques, how to organize a visit, what to bring on visits, how to work with facility staff, and how to make this activity rewarding for all concerned. Delta Society accepts calm, friendly, healthy domestic pets of every description. All breeds, including mixed breeds, are welcome.”
To register for our two day workshop, scroll up and download the registration form on this page. Those taking a Delta workshop will receive a discounted registration fee on our upcoming R.E.A.D. training workshops. Please send an e-mail to us if you are interested. Email us here.
SOME REMINDERS FOR TAKING THE DELTA EVALUATION:
1. Your canine companion is not just a pet. He or she is a working therapy dog and, as such, must exhibit a high standard of behavior in order to pass the therapy dog test. If you allow your dog to practice unacceptable behaviors at home and with your family, you can’t expect him or her to come into the evaluation and be certified.
Just like with children, consistency is the key to success with your working dog. Common behavior problems that can be avoided through your ongoing work with your dog are: mouthing, barking, jumping up, making unacceptable vocalizations, pulling on lead, not sitting when asked,not going down when asked and not staying in place when asked. So, please practice before coming to the evaluation.Begin practicing several weeks in advance at least5 minutes every day.Practice at home and in locations similar to the evaluation site.
2. Reviewthe Pet Partners Team Training Manual and review the evaluation standards a few weeks before you and your canine team mate come to the evaluation. This will help you prepare so that you can be successful during your evaluation. If you have a behavior issue and need help, send an e-mail to HVHSPCA@optonline.net and we will recommend trainers for you to contact whocan help you get ready.
3. And remember if you have an olderteam mate, some days they just don't feel well enough to evaluate (or to visit). Please evaluate your dog's health very conservatively in terms of your expectations when he or she is or has been sick. Anevaluation canbe rescheduled in event of health related issues for your canine.For those who are recertifying, you can contact Delta before your evaluation if need be andDelta will give you a three-month extension on your certification. This should get you through to the next evaluation date when your dog will, hopefully, be feeling better.
For all Delta Evaluations:
Remember to bring the following items; they cannot be provided for you:
- proof of rabies vaccination
- grooming tool
- dog treats
You are being evaluated the moment you step into the building.
To register for the next Delta evaluation, send an e-mail to www.4pawprints.org.
