Therapy & Service Dog Training Certification

Government Approved Dog Training Organisation for Certification Australia-Wide

Smiling man with husky in garden

Welcome to Paws for Support

We make therapy and assistance dog training & certification affordable, accessible, and officially recognised. Whether you’re working with a puppy or an experienced therapy animal, we help you move forward with confidence, without forcing you into long or expensive training if your dog already meets the standard.

Alan Sheppard
Dog Behaviour Therapist

Our Services

Smiling person with content Bernese Mountain Dog

Therapy Dog Programs

Supporting wellbeing, communication and engagement across schools, workplaces and community settings.
Our therapy dog programs are designed to promote emotional balance and positive connection through safe, structured sessions.

Two people with service dogs on a train.

Service Dog Training

Personalised programs that help individuals develop independence and confidence with the support of a trained service dog.
We provide one-on-one training, assessments and certification guidance for Melbourne-based clients

Why Choose Us

Accredited & Experienced Trainers
Professional, certified dog trainers with over 30 years of experience helping dogs and handlers succeed.

Recognised & Certified
Government-recognised dog training organisation providing official Therapy Dog certification.

Trusted by Schools & Professionals
Proudly supporting educators, families, and allied health providers across Australia.

Flexible Delivery 
Therapy programs available online nationwide, with service dog training offered in Melbourne.

Practical & Affordable
Certify your dog without costly or unnecessary courses if they’re already prepared.

Ongoing Support
Guidance before, during and after certification to ensure lasting success for both dog and handler.

183+

Therapy Dogs Certified

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Poodle wearing glasses and tie reading a book.

30+

Years of Experience in Dogs Programs

18+

School Wellbeing Dog Program’s

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Hear From Happy therapy team Handlers

Helping Hundreds of Dog Owners Train Therapy to provide support for others

Thanks to Alan…my dog Max has become an incredible support companion. The training was thorough and the certification process was seamless. I can’t thank them enough!

Sarah L

The trainers..are top-notch. They transformed my dog’s behavior and now he’s a certified therapy dog. This has opened up new opportunities for us both.

John D

Alan, as a gifted trainer, has provided the support and guidance that have enabled me and my dog to learn together.

Iona McKinnon

Bowie my now therapy dog attends psychotherapy sessions along side me… Thank you Alan, your support has been excellent.

Ashley Ogilvie

I just got my 7 year old golden retriever, Archie, accredited as a Therapy Dog, and we are beyond impressed…

Lara Freney

Not sure where to start?

Not sure which program is right for you?


We offer free information sessions to help you understand the difference between therapy and service dogs, and find the right fit for your needs.

At Paws for Support, our mission is to provide friendly and comprehensive training and certification for Therapy, Well Being and Companion Dogs

Our Programs
Therapy Dog
Service Dog
Resources
Blog
Contact us
0411 705 686
admin@pawsforsupport.com.au
Location Cheltenham

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