Leashes for Living Assistance Dog School offers a range of training services for service, therapy, and living assistance dogs. Training may include AKC STAR Puppy, CGC, Public Access Test, 7 levels of obedience, special skill and trick training/testing, and behavior modification as needed.
The President, equipped with tools such as clickers, agility and rally equipment, employs a variety of tools/devices to assist in special skills and trick training for service and therapy dogs, along with any special adaptive equipment for persons with disabilities. The philosophy of training emphasizes love, time, patience, consistency and understanding, using positive reinforcement to allow dogs to communicate effectively and learn.
The services are available in all cities in LaSalle County and surrounding counties within driving distance of Mendota, IL. Training classes are tailored to each dog’s age and previous training, starting with the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program and test, followed by AKC Canine Good Citizen classes and test, Public Access Test for service and therapy dogs, and 7 levels of obedience. Dogs will be introduced to agility and learn through engaging games and tricks.
The Service Dog and Therapy Dog program teaches individuals to train their own dog. Service Dog training includes support for individuals with physical disabilities, autism, seizure episodes, hearing, panic disorders, PTSD, or depression. Therapy Dog training includes preparing dogs to visit hospitals and nursing homes and to assist children or adults with reading disorders.
All programs are based on clicker and lure reward methods, utilizing games and agility to make learning enjoyable for everyone while building confidence and a solid foundation. Annoying behaviors such as excessive barking or digging can be addressed through behavior modification sessions. Both private and group classes are available.
