Seeing eye dog trainers are an important part of the process of helping those with vision impairments gain independence. As professionals, they have the unique opportunity to help individuals with visual impairments restore their independence and quality of life by providing them with the tools and training necessary to work with a seeing eye dog. This profession requires a special set of skills and expertise, and for those who pursue it, the rewards are immense. In this blog post, we will examine the role of a seeing eye dog trainer, what the job entails, and the fulfillment that comes from helping people regain their independence. Additionally, we will provide information about the various responsibilities and qualifications needed to become a successful seeing eye dog trainer. We will also discuss the rewards and challenges of working in this profession, and how the work of seeing eye dog trainers has a significant impact on the lives of those with vision impairments. Through an exploration of the unique roles and responsibilities of these professionals, we will gain a better understanding of what it
What does a Seeing Eye dog trainer do?
Training eligible dogs to act as guides for people with visual impairments is the main duty of a Seeing Eye dog trainer. These dogs assist people by assessing potentially hazardous circumstances, gauging the size of obstacles, and directing them through traffic. Each Seeing Eye dog goes through two phases of training: puppy training and dog training. Selected dogs are placed in volunteer homes as puppies so they can develop their socialization and obedience skills.
Future guide dogs transition from the puppy stage of training to the more rigorous training after completing it. Guide dog trainers work with each dog for two to three months to teach them the abilities needed to be a successful Seeing Eye dog, such as how to:
These experts train guide dogs using a variety of methods, such as clicker training, which is frequently used to teach the dogs to stop at curbs, handle crowds, and walk in a straight line. Other methods include positive reinforcement using praise or edible incentives.
Each dog receives intensive training before being paired with an owner to continue their training together and determine whether they are a good match. A series of classes are frequently included in the owner training in order to help the dog and owner become more comfortable and confident with one another.
When a dog completes Seeing Eye training, they return home with their new owner to put their new skills to use. The guide dog trainer is in charge of stopping by the new owner’s residence and the dog to make sure that everyone is settling in and doing well.
What is a Seeing Eye dog trainer?
Professionals who locate and train dogs to aid the blind or visually impaired are known as “Seeing Eye dog trainers,” “SED trainers,” or “guide dog trainers.” They are in charge of choosing and training suitable dogs, as well as picking and instructing clients on how to use the guide dog to help them regain mobility and independence. Among the essential abilities and traits of a guide dog trainer are:
The average salary for a Seeing Eye dog trainer
Here are some actions you should take to launch your career as a trainer of Seeing Eye dogs:
1. Earn your high school diploma or GED
You must possess a high school diploma, or its equivalent internationally, in order to train guide dogs for the blind.
2. Graduate from a college or university
Certain Seeing Eye dog trainer positions call for applicants to hold a college degree or have taken certain college-level courses. Even though it typically doesn’t matter what you study in college, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a focus on animal behavior can be advantageous. This focus examines how animals interact with their environments, and typical courses in this area include animal physiology, animal behavior, and neurobiology.
3. Gain relevant experience
In this line of work, gaining experience working with dogs directly is essential. Volunteering at animal shelters or obedience schools is a fantastic way to acquire relevant experience. Even some volunteer opportunities are available with Seeing Eye dog training facilities. In these programs, volunteers frequently take care of puppies until they are about 12 to 14 months old and can begin training to be guide dogs. During this time, you would instruct the puppies in manners and obedience fundamentals and assist them in becoming accustomed to human interaction.
4. Complete an apprenticeship
Many Seeing Eye dog trainers begin their careers by serving an internship with a guide dog association or training facility. During these apprenticeship programs, which can last up to three years, you receive supervised, practical training with the guide dogs. At the end of the program, permanent positions are frequently offered to apprentices who have developed their skills and gained experience.
5. Obtain your licensing
To work as a Seeing Eye dog trainer, you might need to obtain a license, depending on the state in which you reside. For instance, in California, prospective guide dog trainers must complete a three-year apprenticeship before taking and passing a number of exams to become licensed. Following that, they must continue their education to keep their licenses.
6. Find employment
Once you have the required training, education, and licenses, you can start looking for work. Search for guide dog training schools with open positions. Remember that many of these employers use written tests to evaluate applicants’ qualifications during the hiring process.
7. Consider earning a certification
By earning certification from a reputable guide dog training organization, such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, you can improve your resume and eligibility for future jobs. If you want to become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), you must pass a test and have at least 300 hours of dog-training experience within the last five years. Although employers hardly ever demand these certifications, they are a great way to demonstrate and advance your understanding of animal behavior and training.
Seeing Eye Dog Training
FAQ
How do I train my dog to be a Seeing Eye dog?
Guide dogs often train best with positive reinforcement. This entails using techniques like clicker training to reward excellent behavior and obedience with treats or toys. Find things that will motivate your dog to perform as required.
Can you train a Seeing Eye dog yourself?
The dog returns to The Seeing Eye at around one year of age and starts a four-month training program with a sighted instructor. Once the dog has successfully completed this stage, it is paired with a blind person, and the two of them train together under the guidance of a sighted instructor. Learn more about Seeing Eye dog training.
How much does a leader dog for the blind cost?
Thanks to devoted donor support, all Leader Dog programs are provided to our clients at no cost. Leader Dogs for the Blind pays for all travel and equipment costs in addition to training, meals, and housing because we think no one should be denied the opportunity to travel independently.
