Introducing the New Certificate in Assistance Dog Training

Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) and Hanrob College have launched a pioneering partnership to deliver a nationally recognised qualification for future Assistance Dog trainers. The collaboration aims to elevate the standards of training and accreditation for Assistance Dogs in Australia.

The ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training from Hanrob College is the only program in Australia offering a specialisation in Assistance Dog training. This unique program allows students to complete practical components at ADA’s National Training Centre in Sydney and includes the opportunity to care for and train an Assistance Dog puppy during the 14-month course.

The first cohort of nine students commenced in April, with the next intake set for June.

ADA Chief Executive Officer Tim Taylor said the partnership is an industry first. “There is currently no clear career pathway for potential professional Assistance Dog trainers. Partnering with Hanrob College allows ADA to set a precedent for quality and consistency from an industry-driven perspective.”

“The course is an important step in setting a new benchmark for the professional training and accreditation of Assistance Dogs, which is a win for both aspiring trainers and Assistance Dog recipients.”

Hanrob College CEO Andrew Biggs added: “We are privileged to be partnering with ADA to shape the next generation of Assistance Dog trainers and nurture the bond between humans and canines, one qualification at a time.”

Hanrob College is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 70236) a division of Hanrob, a leading national pet boarding and dog training company since 1981.

For more information about the ACM40322 – Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training with Assistance Dog specialisation, visit hanrob.com.au/animal-studies/.