Welcome to the Fire Team K-9’s Service Dog Handler Program. 

This program is specifically built to aid the transition and matching of a Handler and Service Dog together. This program is expected to take between four and six months to complete through a combination of video content, written content, in-person classes and Trainer guided lessons in public.

The Service Dog Program Handler Book and this video content  is intended to support your learning during this transition and beyond. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive knowledge for working with your Service Dog partner and help you feel prepared and confident for your Certification Exam together. 

Our Service Dogs have spent the previous 12 to 18 months working hard to learn the essential skills to support their future Fire Team partner. These next months together with you will fine-tune their training, and customize their skills to your needs and lifestyle. Our dogs have been selected for their intelligence, empathy and capacity to serve, however their learning (and yours) will continue for life. Following completion of this program our team remains with you through our comprehensive After Care program.

I know from experience that the matching process is both exhilarating and challenging. Our team is here to support you throughout this process and I encourage you to reach out to your support network, health care professionals, family and friends as well. 

Jeff Hinch, 

President