Guide Dog Owner Training Class
This is an eight-session class occurring approximately every two weeks over 4 months. The time and day of the week will be determined by the needs of the class participants. Each session will last approximately 90 minutes and is limited to a maximum of 6 participants. We will be using Zoom audio. The join info will be provided by email. You can join by dialing in on a phone, smart phone app or computer with microphone.

This class is intended for blind or visually impaired individuals interested in or actively engaged in owner training a guide dog. Participants will be asked to complete an assessment prior to the beginning of the first class. This will be used to customize the weekly sessions to meet the needs of the participants. The class topics may include but will not be limited to:
*deciding if owner training is right for me
*choosing a puppy or young adult dog

• house manners: housebreaking, appropriate chewing, staying out of the trash, jumping up, etc.
• socialization to sights, sounds, textures, people, stores, and a wide variety of situations
• obedience: sit, down, stay, come, loose leash walking etc.
• guide dog skills: forward, right, left, stop at curbs, go around obstacles, traffic training, positioning, etc.
• equipment: harnesses, collars, leashes, grooming tools, etc.
• handler related training equipment: bells, tactile cues, auditory devices, use of sighted assistance
• blindness alternatives for in home puppy supervision, obedience, guide dog training and other tasks

The class will be taught by Meghan Whalen and Julie Johnson. Both instructors have owner trained multiple dogs. Julie first began training dogs for competition obedience, flyball and agility. She studied veterinary technology in college and currently owns ON the Go a shop specializing in guide dog equipment. Meghan has trained guide and service dogs for others. She currently owns Ru Ru Rat Terriers where she breeds rat terriers.

All information in the class is provided with no guarantee of results. Participants should use their own discretion in evaluating all material for its suitability for their particular situation and dog. No refunds will be issued after the class begins. No make up sessions will be available. Additional private sessions may be purchased for an additional fee.

Need a little help deciding if owner training a guide is for you? Or want to talk through a training challenge? Maybe you have a unique situation you would like to problem solve. Private Coaching with an experienced owner trainer could help. Purchase coaching by the hour. Possible topics: *deciding whether or not to owner train *recognizing strengths and weaknesses and identifying helpful resources to be successful with owner training *working through a specific problem area *assessing a particular dog for suitability as a guide *extra support in between the structured Owner Training Class sessions Coaching currently available from Julie Johnson and Meghan Whalen. A coach will contact you after you purchase the number of hours desired to schedule your sessions.
Although the coaches have made every effort to ensure that the information presented and associated materials were correct at the time presented and while this content is designed to provide accurate information in regard to the subject matter covered, the coaches assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any other inconsistencies herein and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. This coaching and associated content is meant as a source of valuable information for the participant however it is not meant as a substitute for direct expert assistance. If such level of assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.