Training

HCI Assistance Dogs receive approximately one to two years of training. The dogs must pass rigorous health and temperament screening during this time. Training begins at about 7 weeks of age when they enter the basic training program.
The first three months of training is Puppy Training class. The puppies learn basic commands, socialization and housebreaking. After graduating from Puppy Training, the puppies enter a three month Basic Training class.
During Basic Training, the puppies learn to work around wheelchairs and continue perfecting their obedience skills. They also are taken on numerous field trips to see how they react to the stress of different environments.
Those that pass Basic Training enter 3-6 months of Advanced Training where they learn skills such as turning on and off lights, opening doors and retrieving items. At this time, field trips become more challenging and the dogs must be able to ignore distractions such as cats, birds and food on the ground.
Dogs that pass Advanced Training are tentatively matched with an applicant on the waiting list. The matching process is complicated and is based on several criteria, including activity level, environment and personality.

The dogs finally enter a 3-6 month Graduate Training where they are trained specifically for the needs of their partner. At this time, the dog's trainer will limit their speech and mobility to match that of the dog's prospective partner. Examples are only using one side of the body and speaking in a whisper.
Dogs that pass Graduate Training then attend an intensive two to three week Team Training Camp with their partner. The Team learns to work together and the recipient must memorize the 90 commands the dog already knows. They also learn about canine psychology, health care and how to bring out the best in their canine partner. Teams that pass celebrate with a graduation ceremony and begin their new life together.
HCI provides follow up visits and training for the life of the team. This is especially important for graduates that may have disabilities that are progressive. The dogs continually learn new skills that may be needed to help their partner.

HCI Volunteers take puppies in training on a field trip to the mall