Is RAD
right
for me?
Is RAD the right choice for me?
Making the decision to train your own assistance dog is a big step, and we're here to help you every step of the way. If you're considering working with an organization, it's important to find one that shares your values and is a good fit for you. We want to provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision for you. So let's dive in and explore how you can determine if an assistance dog is right for you and if RAD could be the perfect match for your team.
Is an Assistance dog right for me?
If you're unsure whether an assistance dog is the right choice for you, there are some important questions you should consider. Have you talked to your treating team about this option? What tasks would you like a canine helper to assist you with? Have you thought about the attention you might receive from the public?
Take a look at this page:
Where to begin?
If you've considered the advantages and disadvantages of having an assistance dog and are ready to begin the process, you might be wondering where to start. That's where RAD comes in.
Before you even bring a dog home, you have the option of joining RAD. This is a helpful choice for teams who may not know which breed to choose, how to locate a reputable breeder, or what would be most suitable for their needs and lifestyle. We can assist you in navigating this process step by step.
Bringing my puppy home
I have finally found my puppy and I am bringing them home, but I am not sure whether I should join RAD now or wait until my dog is trained.
At RAD, we believe in taking things slow and setting up teams for long-term success. We don't rush puppies into public spaces or overwhelm them with training. Our Colour Level structure has been created with input from experienced trainers and handlers to ensure that our teams are legally protected once they start working in public access.
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The best time to start training your puppy is when they come home. Our program focuses on early exposure and socialization to help puppies become well-adjusted dogs. Our teams work through our Colour Level booklets and log their training in our digital training logs. They have access to support from our team at any time, and our booklets have guided explanations and videos to help teams understand training aspects and our program better.
Can I join with my dog?
Yes, you can still join RAD with your current dog, but not every dog may be suited for an assistance dog role. You can consult with us or your vet to determine if your dog is suitable. Even if a dog has the right temperament, health concerns, anxiety, or other factors may prevent them from succeeding in training. Our priority is the dog's enjoyment of the training and finding the job rewarding. Any questions? Our team is always available to chat.
I have already trained my dog.
How can I join RAD?
At RAD, we are committed to helping teams at every stage of their journey. We understand that some teams may decide to join RAD later on in their journey. When facilitating this transition, our goal is to ensure that we have everything we need to fully protect each team as if they had started their training with us from the beginning.
Any team wishing to join RAD needs to meet the same standards and expectations as those who started their training with us from the beginning. This includes providing proof of training. We are here to help if you need to revisit previous training.
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Our goal is to ensure that we have all the necessary information to keep our teams safe and prevent any form of discrimination when working in public spaces. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure the success of each one of our unique teams
What is involved with RAD training?
​We've made dog training easier by dividing it into smaller sections within color levels. Your dog needs specific training to meet legal requirements for accessing public spaces, which can take up to two years. Our digital training logs help track progress, and teams can submit them for assessment to progress to the next level. Consistency is key, and we're here to offer support and guidance.
