Service Dog Certification and Training
Supporting Independence with Expert Training and Certification
At Paws For Support, our Service Dog Programs help you and your dog work together as a capable, confident team. We support you through the full journey (from early planning and training to formal assessment, certification and ongoing registration) with expert guidance every step of the way.
Who Can Benefit
Our Service Dog Programs are designed for individuals whose dogs can provide meaningful support with daily functioning, confidence and independence. This includes people with:
Physical disabilities or mobility challenges
Sensory or neurological needs
Mental health conditions such as anxiety or PTSD
Every training plan is personalised to your lifestyle and goals, ensuring your dog is prepared for real‑world environments and the demands of public access.
How It Works
The Service Dog Program at Paws For Support follows a clear four‑step structure to help you and your dog succeed:
Start with a Free Consultation
Begin with a no‑obligation conversation where we learn about your needs and assess whether your dog is suitable for service training and certification. We can also help you choose a suitable dog if you haven’t got one yet.
Step 1: Selecting a Suitable Dog
We ensure your dog is calm, healthy, responsive and appropriate for service work in public places. This step helps set a strong foundation for training and future success.
Step 2: Core Training Areas
Together, you and your dog work on essential obedience skills, task‑specific training and public readiness. This includes basic commands, task performance relevant to your needs, and training for the Public Access Test (PAT).
Step 3: Public Access Test and Certification
Once your dog is ready, we assess them against government‑aligned standards through the Public Access Test. When your dog passes, you receive an official Service Dog Team certificate recognising their capability and training level.
Step 4: Registration & Ongoing Support
We assist you with registering your service dog, obtaining ID and documentation, and understanding your rights as a certified handler. Annual reassessments help you maintain your dog’s public access status.
What Certification Covers
We take a flexible, owner‑led approach that empowers you as the handler while providing expert guidance and structure throughout the journey:
Custom Training Plans: Designed around your goals and your dog’s starting skill level.
Positive, Reward‑Based Methods: Practical training that builds focus, reliability and calm behaviour.
Public Access Preparation: Step‑by‑step preparation for the Public Access Test (PAT) and certification.
Ongoing Support: Guidance and check‑ins to help maintain performance and confidence over time.
Free Consultation
Start with a conversation to understand your needs before committing.
In‑Person Training & Assessment
Based in Melbourne (Cheltenham), with some requirements for face‑to‑face contact, especially for final certification.
Virtual Support
Online coaching, video assessments and ongoing remote guidance for clients Australia‑wide.
Why Choose Paws For Support
We combine clarity, experience and real‑world readiness:
Government‑recognised service dog certification pathway. Owner‑led training with expert guidance tailored to each dog–handler team.
Detailed support through public access, documentation and registration steps.
Ongoing reassessment and advice to keep your certification current.
Ready to Begin?
Our Service Dog Programs offer practical, confidence‑building support from the very first consultation to certification and beyond.
Start service dog training and certification with confidence and clarity.
At Paws for Support, our mission is to provide friendly and comprehensive training and certification for Therapy, Well Being and Companion Dogs
Contact us
0411 705 686
admin@pawsforsupport.com.au
Location Cheltenham
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