Certification Courses in Canine Assisted Services (CAS) for dog-handler teams
Suitable for:
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Therapy Dogs (e.g., dogs working with mental health or allied health professionals)
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School or Education Support Dogs (e.g., working with educators and education support staff)
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School Wellbeing Dogs (e.g., working with wellbeing staff)
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Visiting Dogs (e.g., visiting organisations or facilities to promote wellbeing)
Training and certification in CAS with Lead The Way comprises theoretical knowledge in AAS and canine behaviour, plus practical dog training and handling skills. Approximately half of the entire programme is based on theoretical knowledge, and the remainder is practical skill development.
Our curriculum is constantly evolving in line with both the scientific evidence, and international best practice standards. This ensures that our participants are always at the forefront of the industry.
Training for your dog can begin as early as 12 weeks of age. This way puppies get started on the right foot with positive socialisation and learning precedents. All dogs must begin their working life as Level 1 ‘Learner’ dogs, ensuring adequate positive socialisation has occurred in the workplace before commencing ‘work’. Dogs must be at least 12 months old for full Visiting Therapy Dog Certification.
Learn with the best!
Pre-Requisites
It is a requirement that all dogs continue to meet the suitability criteria outlined in the Visiting Therapy Dog Suitability Checklist prior to attending any training. The suitability criteria covers general temperament requirements for dogs who are likely to be suitable to work as Certified Visiting Therapy Dogs. The higher the level of training, the more suitability criteria must be met.
To complete each Level of Certification, teams must complete a course comprising both theory and a number of practicum days. It is an expectation that all teams are doing well at their practical exercises, before proceeding to the next practicum day. Teams must have passed the previous certification level, and have up to date (valid) certification, before proceeding to training courses at a higher levels. Please note there are additional requirements for L4.
Visiting Therapy Dog Suitability Checklist
Is my dog a good candidate to begin training towards Certification as a therapy, school, wellbeing or visiting, dog?
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ALL DOGS (including puppies) All dogs should meet these criteria before commencing training for visitng/therapy work. |
| 1. My dog seems to like everyone they meet. There is no particular type of person they clearly dislike e.g., children, elderly, disabled, couriers, delivery people, etc. |
| 2. My dog is happy when we have visitors come to the home, and seeks attention from them |
| 3. My dog generally enjoys (appropriate) touch, pats and physical interactions with members of the household, and new people they meet |
| 4. My dog enjoys meeting strangers (e.g., in the park or the street), and shows this by approaching or seeking attention when appropriate |
| 5. My dog is generally curious. They like to explore or try new things, e.g., they enjoy outings and novel activities, or visiting a new person or place |
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6. My dog is confident to be with others. They are not so attached to me that they would be fearful of going somewhere with a trusted household/family member without me. If under 6 months of age, my dog is working on building separation confidence. If 6 months or older, they are already comfortable with spending brief periods of time alone at home
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| 7. My dog does not seem fearful when encountering everyday things in the environment, e.g., going for a walk, in busy environments, in a noisy home. They don’t seem like a generally nervous dog |
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8. If my dog is startled or gets a fright, they can recover (e.g., return to exploring, don’t avoid the situation for ever after, don’t become aggressive, don’t flee)
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9. I can stop my dog from doing something if I really need to (e.g., take away a dangerous item, prevent them getting to another dog, stop them stealing food, take them off the furniture) without them displaying aggressive behaviours (e.g., growling, biting)
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| 10. (If aged 6 months or over) My dog is reliably toilet trained |
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11. My dog is NOT generally fearful of things. They do not have excessive worries about everyday situations
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| 12. My dog does NOT perform a lifesaving alerting function for me or another person (e.g. medical alert dog, PTSD assistance dog, Autism assistance dog) which would represent a potential conflict for the dog during client work |
| 13. My dog does NOT engage in any activities that promote aggression to people (e.g. guard or protection training) or to animals (e.g. hunting, herding or fighting) |
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14. My dog has NEVER bitten or attempted to bite a person (excludes puppy mouthing)
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| 15. My dog has NO untreated or unstable medical conditions e.g., arthritis, diabetes, epilepsy, intestinal issues, skin issues (Note: all dogs require veterinary clearance) |
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ALL DOGS (inc. puppies) ATTENDING THE CENTRE IN PERSON |
| 16. My dog is reliably toilet trained. They do not ‘mark’ (urinate on) inappropriate objects/furniture indoors or outdoors |
| 17. My dog can be in a training centre with other dogs, and work in close proximity to other dogs, without growling, barking, lunging or becoming fearful or stressed |
| 18. My dog is fit and healthy enough to travel to a workplace, and engage physically with strangers (including absence of carsickness) |
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19. I do NOT have any concerns about the way my dog interacts, and I feel s/he would genuinely enjoy physical contact with strangers
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LEARNER DOGS Dogs must meet these criteria to gain Learner Certification. |
| 20. My dog is part of my life and my household, e.g. comes into the house, participates in activities. They have lived with me for 3 months or longer, and I know them well. I can confidently answer the checklist questions (due to training/socialisation) |
| 21. My dog enjoys being patted, touched by, interacting with strangers (people they don’t know) |
| 22. I can leave my dog tied up or tethered in a safe location for brief periods without them becoming distressed or destructive |
| 23. My dog is generally willing to comply with requests, even if unsure or nervous (e.g. tolerates grooming, being taken off/sharing their bed, having a toy or treat taken away, visiting the vet, being checked over or having a wound looked at) without growling or becoming fearful |
| 24. My dog is responsive to regulation strategies when seeing other animals in the environment e.g., cat on the street, birds at the park. Their natural drives are NOT so strong that they display aggression or excessive over excitability (e.g., staring, barking, lunging, pulling) |
| 25. My dog is NOT afraid of strangers, and does not growl at or avoid strangers e.g. people in hats/coats/hi-vis, toddlers running, people carrying equipment or making odd noises etc. |
| 26. My dog does NOT ‘mouth’ (place mouth or teeth on people), even in play (including puppies) |
| 27. My dog does NOT have any serious fears of specific things (e.g., electrical equipment, vacuums, cleaning chemical smells, noises) or phobias (e.g. thunderstorms phobia) resulting in dangerous responses or uncontrollable behaviour |
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CERTIFIED DOGS Dogs must meet these criteria to sit the Certification Assessment at Level 2 (Foundational) or Level 4 (Advanced). |
| 28. My dog likes elderly or disabled people (pro-social, curious, confident responses) |
| 29. My dog likes children (pro-social, curious, confident responses) |
| 30. My dog is willing and responsive. They respond positively to requests (e.g., formal cues, training equipment, directions) |
| 31. I can leave my dog tethered in a safe location, crated, or confined in a novel room/space for brief periods without them becoming distressed or destructive |
| 32. My dog will willingly go off with a familiar person, friend, or family member without me, without becoming distressed (e.g., colleague, doggy day care, groomer, walker etc) |
| 33. My dog does NOT display aggressive responses, and is not fearful around moving objects (e.g., cars, bikes, trolleys, skateboards) |
| 34. My dog is NOT fearful in typical environments (e.g., stairs, shiny floors, elevators, lights, fans) |
| 35. My dog does NOT display aggressive or unsafe responses towards other animals such as small animals, cats, native animals (e.g. possums/birds) chooks, ponies or farm animals |
| 36. My dog does NOT display aggressive or unsafe responses towards other dogs |
| 37. My dog does NOT display aggressive or unsafe responses when around valued resources (e.g., toys, bed, handler, food) |
Terms and Conditions
Requirements for handlers and dogs
- Handlers must be at least 18 years of age and are required to have a dog who has been living with them for a minimum of 3 months, or with whom they have had a strong and ongoing bond for a period of greater than 3 months (required for learner dog and visiting dog certification).
- Dogs must be a minimum of 12 weeks old to begin the learner dog course; 6 months for Learner Assessment; 12 months for full Certification
- Handlers must not work more than one dog per training course, except where they are Certifying as Advanced Multidog Handlers
- Applicants from overseas (who do not have a dog with them) should speak with us in advance about alternative options.
- Current WWCC, or equivalent teacher registration (or international equivalent) is required to attend community visits (Day Four-Learner dog Assessment; Certification/Recertification Assessments; Level Four day two).
- Handler/Dog Certification can only be granted to those participants who successfully complete the practicum course, and whose dog successfully passes the assessments. Alternative statements of completion are available for theory only completion.
- Handlers must have sufficient English language skills (written and oral) to complete the online theory, practical workshops, and communicate with trainers, fellow students, and clients. All training materials are supplied in English.
- Handlers must have the capacity for intensive study and the physical capacity to handle and work dogs in indoor and outdoor environments. Handling and training of dogs can be physically demanding, and there may be some requirement to navigate outdoor terrain, such as stairs, footpaths, hills or uneven surfaces.
- For online study, a computer or device with access to the internet and a camera is required.
- Practitioners are Certified in accordance with their existing qualifications, for example Certified Practitioner in Animal-Assisted Therapy – Psychologist; Certified Practitioner in Animal Assisted Education – Secondary Teaching.
Additional/Secondary handlers
- Secondary handlers must be pre-approved by the course co-ordinator.
- A maximum of two Secondary Handlers may be certified per dog, in addition to the primary handler.
- Primary handlers maintain oversight and responsibility for the dog.
- All certification assessments are strictly one handler per dog (Level 1 day four, Certification Assessment, and Re-certification, Level 4 (all) ). This ensures each individual handler is assessed for competence to work the dog.
Course pre-requisites
- Each course day will have pre-requisite learning which must be completed prior to the practical day. The pre-requisite learning can be accessed through the Thinkific learning platform once you are enrolled in the relevant day.
- All dogs must continue to meet the suitability criteria, have current vet checks and health clearance (every 6 months), and have up to date welfare/wellbeing/workplace plans in place.
Assessments & competence
- E-Courses and online (theoretical) content are assessed via online (open book) questionnaires. Participants are required to obtain 100% correct in order to pass the assessments. If participants need assistance with understanding the content to complete the quiz successfully, they must contact the course instructor for further support.
- Dog handling and dog temperament are assessed face to face as part of a range of practical skills demonstrations. Detailed requirements about competence standards are provided to all course participants at the commencement of their course.
- Dogs or handlers deemed not yet competent are required to re-sit the relevant course or assessment day (costs apply).
- Assessment tasks may be photographed or videoed by the instructors and kept as evidence of competence.
Application process and payment terms
- To apply, purchase the relevant course workshop day via the Thinkific Learning Platform.
- Payment is required online at the time of purchase. Any arrangement for payment outside of these terms (e.g., Schools Mental Health Menu) must be discussed with, and approved by, the Course Coordinator.
- You will then receive an email containing the online application form through our secure client system (ZandaHealth).
- Your application will be processed, and you will receive a confirmation email within 3 – 5 business days of the application being received by the Course Coordinator. If you have not received an email from us within 7 business days, please check your junk mail folder, then contact the Course Coordinator directly at tglasson@leadtheway.com.au or 0421 059 943.
Waiting List
- If a course is indicated as ‘Waiting List Only’ your application will be placed on the waiting list. Occasionally places become available due to cancellations. Places are offered in order of application and you will be notified by email & SMS (mobile phone message) of an available place. Offers must be accepted or declined within 2 business days or the place will be offered to the next applicant on the list.
Attendance/completion requirements
- The attendance/completion requirements for courses is 100%. You must attend all scheduled sessions in full. The content taught is both sequential and cumulative, meaning that if you miss any content, you may not understand critical foundational concepts moving forward.
- All allocated online theory must be completed prior to your attendance at the associated practical day. If you have not successfully completed all theory lessons and quizzes by 8am on the day of the practicum, your enrollment in the practical day will be forefit. You will need to re-enrol in a subsequent practicum, (charged at the relevant applicable re-sit rate).
- If you have exceptional circumstances, you must discuss this with us. Any missed practical content must be made up via attendance at private lessons, charged at the applicable current rate.
- Failure to successfully complete any component of the course will result in the team needing to re-sit the relevant practical day (charged at the relevant applicable re-sit rate) or re-sit the online subject (no additional charges).
Cancellation and refund policy
- All cancellations, refunds, and transfers are granted at the discretion and with the approval of the course co-ordinator.
- Refunds will be granted prior to accessing course content, and provided a minimum of 30 days notice is given prior to the booked practical day. Once the course is purchased and online theory content accessed there is no opportunity for a refund (even if the practical day has not been attended).
- If you need to reschedule your attendance to a booked practical day please notify the course co-ordinator at the earliest opportunity, to allow someone on the waitlist your place in the practical day.
- Should you need to reschedule your booked practical day within 2 weeks (and more than 3 days) of the scheduled date there will be a $100 rescheduling fee applied.
- If 3 days or less notice is given, or non-attendance, this will result in a forfeit of the full course fee. Re-enrolment in a subsequent practicum day will be charged at the relevant applicable re-sit rate.
- All courses must be completed within 12 months of purchase. Participants who wish to enrol or access course content (online or practical days) after this time must be granted specific approval by the course coordinator, and additional fees will apply.
- Should a course be cancelled by Lead The Way, for any reason, all monies paid will be refunded in full, or transferred to a future course, by mutual agreement.
- Courses are subject to minimum numbers, and cancellations outside of Lead The Way’s control may impact on the running of some courses. Participants will be given a minimum of 2 weeks notice if a course is subject to cancellation.
Intellectual Property & Copyright
- All courses and all content delivered, including but not limited to; written documents and manuals, the course outline structure or content, activities, assessments or assessment protocols, policies, procedures guidelines or documents, learning goals or outcomes, videos pictures or graphics, remain the intellectual property of Lead The Way Pty Ltd and relevant Associates.
- No part of any course may be replicated or delivered by you or your agents.
- The intellectual property delivered throughout the course must be used for the sole purpose for which it was intended – that is to certify you, the handler, to work with your own dog.
- You must not use any content for professional training programmes for profit or in any other manner without the express written permission of the owners.
- All written materials provided to you are subject to copyright. You must not reproduce or distribute any materials or communications except for your own personal or professional use, without the express written permission of the owners. All citations of the work must be adequately referenced.
Health and Safety
- Dogs and handlers must be well. Do not attend the training centre if unwell.
- Health, safety or hygiene requirements may be in effect and must be adhered to (e.g., relevant covid restrictions).
- Dogs must be up to date with vacccinations and parasite control.
- Dogs must be up to date with health screening and veterinary checks (every 6 months)
- Abusive behaviour is not tolerated. Any person acting in an aggressive or abusive manner will be asked to leave the training centre.
Aggression Policy for Dogs
- Depending on the severity of the aggression (see below), participants may also be asked to discontinue the practical day for the safety and welfare of the other participant teams.
- Handler and dog teams will be unable to continue on the practical day if the dog shows:
- Three incidences of level 1-2 aggression
- Two incidences of level 3-4 aggression
- One incidence of level 5+ aggression
- Dog’s showing aggression at any assessment will be given a grade of either ‘not yet competent’ or ‘not suitable’ depending on the severity of the aggressive display.
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Aggression:
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- If given a grade of ‘not yet competent’ dogs may re-sit the full assessment at a later date, subject to trainer approval. However, it is expected that the handler and dog team have had additional training and support from a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviourist to address the “cause” of the aggression and the dog is no longer displaying these behaviours prior to re-sitting the certification assessment.
Welfare Policy for Dogs
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Ensuring the safety and welfare of our teams is paramount, even during ‘stress testing’ where we place teams in challenging environments that may simulate their working life. If your dog displays persistent stress responses, or they display any fear, we will modify the exercise in line with your dog’s capacity. This may result in a not-yet-competent grade during assessment however your dog’s welfare is paramount.
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Reset for success is important – we do not want our dogs practicing incorrect or inappropriate behaviour (including over excitability). For that reason, after two errors, an exercise will be modified. This ensures not only that we set our dogs up for success, but also that we don’t allow them to develop patterned behaviour that is contrary to our expectations.
Graduates Code of conduct
All graduates must adhere to the code of conduct. Graduates are required to sign a disclaimer attesting to the safe, ethical, and professional handling of their dog, agreeing:
- To operate within their certification level and not to misrepresent their training or certification standards or operate outside of the Institute guidelines including:
- Team statements of competence (including limitations and recommendations)
- Practice guidelines (Handler, Infection Control & Allergy Management, Grooming, Welfare Wellbeing & Workplace Plans, Risk Assessments), and the Veterinary Screening procedures, and all other relevant LTW guidelines, policies, procedures & recommendations
- To maintain a high ethical standard, ensuring the safety and welfare of humans and animals during all interactions
- To work exclusively within the Handler’s own professional training and expertise, and to operate within said professional and ethical guidelines
- Not to misrepresent the Handlers level of training or expertise or to provide ‘therapy’ without appropriate qualifications & registration
- Not to misrepresent any learner dog as a fully certified dog, nor any certified dog as an assistance/service dog with public access
- Not to claim a dog is Certified if they are not, nor allow any other dog to wear the Learner/Visiting /Therapy/School Dog Identification Coat
- To maintain the standards of all dog’s training and behaviour as per the team assessments, and to seek assistance, guidance or support from LTW trainers (for rehabilitation and/or re-certification) or cease working with the dog if required
- Not to allow another person to work the dog without supervision or guidance, or to claim to be the Certified Handler for the purposes of providing animal-assisted services
- To acknowledge the copyright of all educational materials, appropriately attributing authorship via referencing
- To acknowledge ‘fair use’ of the training by acknowledging the ownership of all intellectual property, by attributing ownership of ideas and concepts learned, and to refrain from using the intellectual property to run training for profit
Access the online learning portal
Browse Lead The Way’s online courses, and access your online resources here.
Level 1 – Learner
Provisional Handler and Learner Dog Certification
This is our entry level Certification for all teams. Dogs begin their working life as ‘Learners’ developing their craft in working with clients/students/patients.
1.1 Day One (online)
Practicum day 1.1
- Handlers must complete the required online theory subjects (approx. 5 hours) prior to attending the practicum day (see THINKIFIC our online portal for more information). Failure to complete the required theory for each practicum will result in a forfeiture of your place on the practicum.
- Dogs may attend day one from 12 weeks of age or older, and must meet the relevant suitability criteria.
- Practicum day 1.1 is delivered online 9am – 5pm, so dogs can learn from home in a low distraction environment.
- Practical content includes
- Getting used to equipment and handling
- Shaping games (cues) for socialisation, communication and regulation
- Basic manners
- Building positive associations
1.2 Day Two (online)
Practicum day 1.2
- Handlers must complete the required online theory subjects (approx 5 hours) prior to attending the practicum day (see THINKIFIC our online portal for more information). Failure to complete the required theory for each practicum will result in a forfeiture of your place on the practicum.
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria.
- Practicum day 1.2 is delivered online 9am – 5pm, so dogs can learn from home in a low distraction environment.
- Practical content includes
- Shaping games for obedience cues
- Understandig cue words (Cue discrimination)
- Regulation and separation confidence
- Manners in everyday situations
1.3 Day Three (in person)
Practicum day 1.3
- Handlers must complete the required online theory subjects (approx 5 hours) prior to attending the practicum day (see THINKIFIC our online portal for more information). Failure to complete the required theory for each practicum will result in a forfeiture of your place on the practicum.
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria and provide up to date vaccination status, prior to attending the training centre
- Practicum day 1.3 is delivered in person 9am – 5pm in Ferntree Gully, at our training facility
- Practical content includes
- Cue reliability under distraction (other dogs and people present)
- Interacting with people (temperament, consent, preferences)
- Socialisation to everyday people, situations and equipment
1.4 Learner Assessment Day (in person)
Learner Assessment
Once teams have successfully completed all of the theory and practical content, and feel ready, they may enrol in the Learner Assessment Day here
- Dogs must be at least 6 months (24 weeks) of age and meet the relevant suitability criteria to sit the Learner Assessment. They must have an up to date vet check (valid for 6 months). Handlers are required to have a current Working With Children Check (or equivalent).
- The Learner Assessment is delivered in person 9am – 5pm in Ferntree Gully at our training centre, and may include taking a walk into the local community. Please bring clothing approprate for the weather.
- Written content includes
- The development of a workplace socialisation, training and welfare plan
- Practical content includes
- Practicing cues and learning more advanced cues
- Using training strategies in everyday situations e.g., walking, greeting people, leaving distractions
- Temperament assessment e.g., socialisation preferences, desire to engage with people, level of drive
Successful completion of the learner assesment allows teams to enter a workplace setting to begin their real life trainnig and socialisation as a learner dog and provisional handler team. After successfully completing the workplace plan (typically 3 months), teams are eligible to proceed to the Level 2 course where they will complete their training as Certified Visiting Therapy Dog and Hadler Teams.
Course Information
Level One Learning Objectives
At this level, graduates can develop a plan or structure for a canine assisted services (CAS) programme, or provide guidance on the development and implementation of a CAS programme including: policy frameworks, health and safety, knowledge of the research underpinning human animal interactions, and an understanding of the principles of canine health and welfare. Provisional Handlers develop an understanding of the requirements needed to train, socialise and supervise their Learner Dogs, including the development of socialisation, work and welfare plans
Course overview
- Teams complete three single practicum days (9am – 5pm) each preceded by approximately 5 hours of pre-requisite online learning. Teams may then proceed to the fourth day, Learner Assessment.
- Dogs may attend day one from 12 weeks of age or older. Practicum days 1 and 2 are delivered online, so dogs can learn from home in a low distraction environment. Practicum day 3 is completed in person.
- Learner Assessment is competed in person and may be booked when the team feel ready. After successfully completing the Learner Assessment, teams begin their work placement in accoradance with their workplace plan. Please note Lead The Way no longer supports remote assessments. From 2025, all teams must attend our centre in person to achieve Certification. Contact us for further information.
- Dogs must be aged 24 weeks (6 months) or older, meet the suitability criteria, and have a current vet check, in order to complete the Learner Assessment. Handlers are required to hold a current Working With Children Check (or equivalent) to participate in assessments or community visits with members of the public.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Teams currently attending group classes at the introductory level may apply for RPL for the day one practicum, subject to trainer approval. Attendance at 10 group classes covers approximately the same practical content as the day 1.1 practicum, however students must still complete the online theory.
Students who have completed Lead The Way’s AAI and CAI online short courses will be eligible for RPL for some online theory content from Level One. Discounts apply.
Students adopting a Wellbeing Dog from Guide Dogs Vic in partnership with LTW (e.g., via the Schools Mental Health Menu) will also be eligible for RPL for some Level One practical content. Discounts apply.
Please email admin@leadthewayinstitute.com.au to request RPL.
There is no further RPL for other components of the Level 1 course. There is no RPL for Level 2 or above.
Optional Additional Handlers
In some settings, it is appropriate for a dog to have multiple handlers, for example facility or wellbeing dogs working in schools or organisational settings. In this instance, all handlers must have a significant and ongoing relationship with the dog, AND the dog must have a suitable temperament to work with others away from their owner (Primary Handler). For example, the dog would happily go to that person for comfort or guidance, that person understands the dog’s individual preferences, strengths and weaknesses, and they have regular contact. In all cases, the Primary Handler must retain responsibility and oversight/supervision of the dog’s training, behaviour, interactions and welfare.
Where there is more than one handler per dog the Primary Handler must be the person with whom the dog lives. Lead The Way does not support the training or employment of facility or wellbeing dogs who reside fulltime in a facility without a stable, primary, handler who can maintain oversight and responsibility, and with whom the dog can spend ‘down time’ when not working.
All handlers must independently display competence in formal knowledge assessments (online assessments) and handling skills assessments. This ensures that Secondary Handlers are competent to work with the dog when the Primary Handler is not present, and ensures the dog is confident and comfortable to seek reassurance from the Secondary Handler in the absence of their owner.
- Primary and Secondary handlers may attend L1 practicum days 1 to 3 together (discounts apply). Day 4 (Learner Assessment) must be attended separately.
Primary and Secondary handlers may attend L2 practicum day 1 and 2 together (discounts apply). Certification Assessment must be attended separately
Course Dates and bookings 2025
Purchasing and Accessing The Course
- Purchase ‘Level 1 Learner Day One’ via the online learning portal.
- Read the information regarding the course enrollment process.
- An enrollment form will be emailed to you. Complete the online form to apply for your preferred practicum dates.
- After completing each practicum day, you will be emailed a link to purchase the subsequent day
- Once you are ready, enrol in the Learner Assessment day
Practicum Information
Practicums run 9am to 5 pm each allocated day
The relevant allocated online theory musst be completed PRIOR to atteding each practicum day. Failure to complete the theory will result in forfeiture of your place in the practicum day.
In person practicums are run at our training centre: 5/91 Dorset Road, Ferntree Gully (east of Melbourne) Vic. 3156
Practicum Dates 2025
* Practicum days marked with “WL” and coloured orange are currently full. Any further applications will be placed on a waiting list in accordance with our terms and conditions
| Course No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| LEVEL ONE | ||||||
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Day one (online) |
Friday January 24 |
Monday March 3 |
Friday May 2 |
Wednesday July 2 |
Friday September 5 |
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Day two (online) |
Monday February 17 |
Tuesday March 25 |
Monday May 26 |
Tuesday July 29 |
Monday October 6 |
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Day three (in person)
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Tuesday March 4 |
Monday April 28 |
Tuesday June 24 |
Monday August 25 |
Tuesday November 11 |
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| Learner Assessment (in person) |
Monday April 7 |
Tuesday July 22 |
Monday December 1 |
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| LEVEL TWO | Recommended for interstate travellers | |||||
| Day one (in person or online as indicated) |
Friday February 7 |
Friday May 30 |
Friday August 8 OL |
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| Day two (in person) |
Tuesday April 1 |
Monday June 30 |
Monday September 8 |
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| CERTIFICATION & (RE)CERTIFICATION ASSESSMENT (in person) |
Tuesday January 21 |
Monday March 17 |
Friday May 16 |
Monday July 7 |
Wednesday Sept 10 |
Friday November 28 |
Cost:
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$470 AUD (inc. GST) per practicum day (includes online theory)
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(Practicum only / Theory only / Resit cost per practicum day $235)
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$470 AUD (inc. GST) Learner Assessment Day
Total Cost Level 1: $1880 AUD (inc. GST)
Level 2 – Foundation
Visiting Therapy Dog and Handler Certification
This is our second level of Certification, where teams complete the foundational training and assessment required to Certify as Visiting Therapy Dog and Handler teams, delivering canine assisted services (CAS) in a workplace.
2.1 Day One in person (one online option annually)
Practicum day 2.1
- Dog-handler teams must have completed their Level 1 Learner work placement and successfully implemented their workplace training, socialisation and welfare plan prior to enroling in Level 2.
- Dogs may attend day one from 10 months of age or older, and must meet the relevant suitability criteria.
- Handlers must complete the required online theory subjects (approx. 2 hours) prior to attending the practicum day (see THINKIFIC our online portal for more information). Failure to complete the required theory for each practicum will result in a forfeiture of your place on the practicum.
- Practicum day 2.1 is delivered in person 9am – 5pm, at our training centre in Ferntree Gully. NOTE: Once per year this practicum is offered online for those unable to travel to Melbourne.
- Practical content includes
- Reliable cues under increasing distraction
- Developing training consistency and reliability without reliance on food
- Intreaction preferences (people)
- Equipment socialisation
- Facilitating mutually rewarding interactions
2.2 Day Two (in person)
Practicum day 2.2
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria.
- Handlers must complete the required online theory subjects (approx. 2 hours) prior to attending the practicum day (see THINKIFIC our online portal for more information). Failure to complete the required theory for each practicum will result in a forfeiture of your place on the practicum.
- Practicum day 2.2 is delivered in person 9am – 5pm, at our training centre in Ferntree Gully
- Practical content includes
- Reliable cues/manners in challenging environments
- Co-regulation between dogs and people (handler and clients)
- Intreactions with challenging clients
- Goal focussed interactions
2.3 Certification Assessment Day (in person)
Certification Assessment
Once teams have successfully completed all of the theory and practical content, and feel ready, they may enrol in the Certification Assessment Day here
- Dogs must be at least 12 months of age and meet the relevant suitability criteria to sit the Certification Assessment. They must have an up to date vet check (valid for 6 months). Handlers are required to hold a valid Working With Children Check (or equivalent).
- The Certification Assessment is delivered in person 9am – 5pm in Ferntree Gully at our training centre, and includes supervised visits into the local community
Course Information
Level Two Learning Objectives
At Level 2, graduates provide safe, effective and ethical interactions within their workplace, school, or community. Handlers are assessed for their attunement with their Certified Therapy Dog, and their skills in implementing interactions in realistic scenarios and settings with a range of different people. Certified Therapy Dogs are assessed for suitability, desire and safety to work with a range of different people, including children and diverse adults. They must be responsive to their handlers and are Certified to work on lead in various settings, in accordance with their temperament and competence
Course overview
- Teams complete two practicum days (9am – 5pm) each preceded by approximately 2 hours of pre-requisite online learning. Teams may then proceed to the Certification Assessment.
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To be eligible to enrol in Level 2 practicum day 2.1, dogs must be at least 10 months of age. Teams must have successfully competed their workplace socialisation and training plan prior to commencing Level 2 training
- Practicum day 2.1 can be attended online or in person (although attendance in person is highly recommended). Practicum day 2.2 must be attended in person.
- After having successfully completed practicum days 2.1 and 2.2, and the dog is aged 12 months or older, teams are eligible to book into the Certification Assessment. This assessment will grant sucessful graduates with Certification as a Visiting Therapy Dog and Handler Team.
Recognition of Prior Learning
There is no RPL for Level 2 or above.
Optional Additional Handlers
- Primary and Secondary handlers may attend practicum days 2.1 and 2.2 together (discounts apply).
- Certification Assessments must be attended separately by each handller-dog team
Course Dates and bookings 2025
Purchasing and Accessing The Course
- After having completed Level One and the Work Placement, Purchase ‘Level 2 Foundation Day One’ on the online learning portal using the link provided in your invitation email. If you do not have the link, please email admin@leadthewayinstitute.com.au for assistance.
- Read the information regarding the course enrollment process.
- An enrollment form will be emailed to you. Complete the online form to apply for your preferred practicum dates.
- After completing each practicum day, you will be emailed a link to purchase the subsequent day
- Once you are ready, enrol in the Certification Assessment day
Practicum Information
Practicums run 9am to 5 pm each allocated day
The relevant allocated online theory must be completed PRIOR to atteding each practicum day. Failure to complete the theory will result in forfeiture of your place in the practicum day.
In person practicums are run at our training centre: 5/91 Dorset Road, Ferntree Gully (east of Melbourne) Vic. 3156
Practicum Dates 2025
* Practicum days marked with “WL” and coloured orange are currently full. Any further applications will be placed on a waiting list in accordance with our terms and conditions
| Course No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| LEVEL ONE | ||||||
|
Day one (online) |
Friday January 24 |
Monday March 3 |
Friday May 2 |
Wednesday July 2 |
Friday September 5 |
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Day two (online) |
Monday February 17 |
Tuesday March 25 |
Monday May 26 |
Tuesday July 29 |
Monday October 6 |
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Day three (in person)
|
Tuesday March 4 |
Monday April 28 |
Tuesday June 24 |
Monday August 25 |
Tuesday November 11 |
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| Learner Assessment (in person) |
Monday April 7 |
Tuesday July 22 |
Monday December 1 |
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| LEVEL TWO | Recommended for interstate travellers | |||||
| Day one (in person or online as indicated) |
Friday February 7 |
Friday May 30 |
Friday August 8 OL |
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| Day two (in person) |
Tuesday April 1 |
Monday June 30 |
Monday September 8 |
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| CERTIFICATION & (RE)CERTIFICATION ASSESSMENT (in person) |
Tuesday January 21 |
Monday March 17 |
Friday May 16 |
Monday July 7 |
Wednesday Sept 10 |
Friday November 28 |
Cost:
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$400 AUD (inc. GST) per practicum day (includes online theory)
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(Practicum only / Theory only / Resit cost per practicum day $200)
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$430 AUD (inc. GST) Certification Assessment Day
Total Cost Level 2: $1230 AUD (inc. GST)
Level 3 – Advanced Theory and Preparation
Advanced Theory and Preparation (dogs are not assessed at this level)
Our third level of Certification, this course provides advanced theory on intervention development in combination with advanced dog handling skills. Graduates learn how to incorporate play and goal focussed interactions according to a participant’s level of progress/development. Dogs begin learning off lead cues, tricks and agility.
3.1 Day One (online or in person)
Practicum day 3.1
- Dog-handler teams must have up to date (current) certification at Level 2
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria. Dogs attending the centre face to face must be safe and confident to work in close proximity to other dogs in play or drive, and in the presence of valued resources (e.g., toys, food)
- Practicum day 3.1 is delivered online or in person 9am – 5pm
- Theory and practice are combined throughout the day, so participants can workshop concepts colaboratively. Content includes
- Developing advanced off leash regulation and communication with your dog
- Learning how to implement Animal Assisted Services that are Neurobiologically effective using NB-AAS
- Identifying participants most likely to benefit from NB-AAS
3.2 Day Two (online or in person)
Practicum day 3.2
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria. Dogs attending the centre face to face must be safe and confident to work in close proximity to other dogs in play or drive, and in the presence of valued resources (e.g., toys, food)
- Practicum day 3.2 is delivered online or in person 9am – 5pm
- Theory and practice are combined throughout the day, so participants can workshop concepts colaboratively. Content includes
- Using trick training techniques to create new behaviours
- Using small agility equipment safely and effectively
- Understanding the phases of NB-AAS intervention for participants according to their progress
- Understanding the role of NB-AAS facilitators delivering directive and non-directive interventions
3.3 Day Three (online or in person)
Practicum day 3.3
- Dogs must meet the relevant suitability criteria. Dogs attending the centre face to face must be safe and confident to work in close proximity to other dogs in play or drive, and in the presence of valued resources (e.g., toys, food)
- Practicum day 3.3 is delivered online or in person 9am – 5pm
- Theory and practice are combined throughout the day, so participants can workshop concepts colaboratively. Content includes
- Integrating off leash tricks and agility into interventions
- Understanding how to identify participant goals, and matching interactions across the four NB-AAS domains of relational, sensory motor, self-regulatory, and educational
Course Information
Level Three Learning Objectives
At this level, graduates understand creative interventions and the neurobiology of interactions. They understand how to apply the Neurobiological Model of Animal Assisted Services (NB – AAS) to participant, client or student interactions in multidisciplinary settings. Handlers develop creative interventions that are targeted to meet specific goals. Dogs begin training in play, tricks, and agility, working towards off-lead responsiveness in preparation for Advanced Certification (dogs are not assessed at Level 3).
Course overview
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Teams complete three single practicum days (9am – 5pm). Theory lectures and discussions are woven into the practicums for seamless and integrated learning. Teams have the choice of attending online or in person.
- Dogs must be working well at Level 2 and be up to date with their Certification prior to enrolment
- Dogs attending on site/in person must be safe and happy working in close proximity with other dogs, in the presence of valued resources (e.g., food and toys) and when excited (e.g., during play).
Recognition of Prior Learning
There is no RPL for Level 2 or above.
Optional Additional Handlers
- Primary and Secondary handlers may attend L3 practicum days 1 to 3 together (discounts apply). There is no assessment for dogs at Level 3
Course Dates and bookings 2025
Register your interest now!
Email admin@leadthewayinstitute.com.au to register your interest in Level 3
Cost:
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$400 AUD (inc. GST) per practicum day (includes online theory)
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(Practicum only / Theory only / Resit cost per practicum day $200
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Total Cost Level 3: $1200 AUD (inc. GST)
Level 4 – Advanced
Advanced Therapy Dog and Handler Certification
At our fourth Certifiction level, dogs and handlers complete their Advanced level training and assessments. Advanced handlers are competent at facilitating off-lead, interactive and play-based interventions across the four domains of relational, educational, self-regulatory and sensory-motor.
L4 Practicum (2 day intensive) in person
Level 4 – two day practicum
- Teams attend a two-day in person practicum running 9am-5pm on Thursday and Friday.
- Teams work collaboratively delivering simulated interactions and interventions using the NB-AAS framework taught in Level 3
- Dogs practice and refine their Advanced skills in off lead tricks, agility, and cues over the two days
- In collaboration, teams develop and rehearse a 1 hour intervention to deliver during a community visit
- The two-day intensive is followed by the community vist on the Friday evening
Evening assessment (community visit) in person
Advanced Assessment (Community Visit)
The one-hour community visit is delivered in the local area to a small group of secondary school aged participants. During the visit, Teams will deliver an intervention they have developed during their intensive. The intervention must align with the participant’s stated goals (provided earlier in the day), for example focussing on communication, confidence, safety, respect etc.
Course Information
Level Four Learning Objectives
At this level, graduates are competent facilitating off-lead, interactive and play-based interventions in line with their professional qualifications. Teams deliver creative interactions to meet client goals, across the four NB-AAS domains of relational, educational, self-regulatory, and sensory-motor. Advanced dogs are responsive, even within complex environments, and Certified to work off lead with clients
Course overview
- Dogs must be working well at Level 3 standard and be up to date with their Certification prior to enrolment
- Dogs must be safe and happy working in close proximity with other dogs, in the presence of valued resources (e.g., food and toys) and when excited (e.g., during play).
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Teams complete a two and a half day intensive (in person), running Thursday, Friday, and culminating in a community visit on Friday evening.
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The community visit requires participants to develop and deliver a creative, goal focussed intervention to secondary school aged clients.
- Assessment is incorporated throughout the course, and consists of simulated interventions, followed by assessment of the dog-handler team during the community visit
- After successful completion of Level 4, teams are eligible to re-certify (usually annually) at the Advanced or Advanced Multi-Dog Level by attending a Certification Assessment.
Recognition of Prior Learning
There is no RPL for Level 2 or above.
Optional Additional Handlers
- Primary and Secondary handlers must attend Level 4 separately.
Course Dates and bookings 2025
Register your interest now!
Email admin@leadthewayinstitute.com.au to register your interest in Level 4
Cost:
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$1230 AUD (inc. GST) per course (inc. assessment)
Total Cost Level 1: $1230 AUD (inc. GST)
Level 5 – Professional
(Certificate in Animal-Assisted Services – Canine)
Certified Practitioner in Animal Assisted Treatment / Therapy / Education or Support
Our final and highest level of Certification, graduates are considered professional practitioners in their chosen field (e.g., psychology, School Counselling, Occupational Therapy). Practitioners are competent to deliver CAS as a specialist scope of professional practice.
Masterclass (in person)
Masterclass
Masterclasses bring together Australia’s experts in Animal-Assisted Services (Canine) to provide practitioners with cutting edge knowledge and skills in varied disciplines including mental health, education and support services.
Masterclasses comprise one-day workshops designed to extend and enhance knowledge and practice of Canine-Assisted Services. Masterclasses are designed to workshop CAS concepts at a professional level, and it is expected that attendees have a solid foundation in both knowlege and practice of AAS.
During masterclasses, participants work with their own Advanced Certified Therapy Dogs, workshopping the techniques and strategies being taught. Please note: only Advanced Dogs with current LTWI Certification may attend Masterclasses. If your dog does not have Advanced Certification, you may attend without your dog, and participate in joint activities with other teams.
Professional Practice Hours
work practice hours (to be overseen by your supervisor or mentor)
Note: Handlers will be provided with the contact details of approved supervisors/mentors and may select a supervisor who meets their needs and preferences. Supervision can be completed on-line where necessary. There may be some variability in the fees or charges for each individual supervisor.
Professional practice may begin once the team has successfully achieved Certification as a Visiting Therapy Dog and Handler Team. At the foundational level, professional practice comprises:
- A minimum of 36 hours professional practice completed over a period of at least 3 months (3 hours per week of direct delivery of interventions/client contact).
- Interactions need not be discipline-specific, and may include informal visiting; however, there is an expectation that the practice is relevant to the practitioner’s future work goals, for example similar populations or settings.
- A minimum of 3 hours of supervision/mentoring during the practice period. Supervision/mentoring will focus on safe interactions, managing the Visiting Therapy Dog’s behaviour and welfare; engaging clients; establishing appropriate procedures, insurances, or equipment; and appropriate professional practices.
- One session can be delivered via group supervision/mentoring, and the remaining two must be individual supervision/mentoring.
The majority of professional practice hours must occur once the team has successfully achieved Certification as an Advanced Therapy Dog and Handler Team. At the advanced level, professional practice comprises:
- A minimum of 192 hours of professional practice completed over a period of at least 6 months (8 hours per week of direct delivery of interventions/client contact).
- The professional practice must be discipline-specific, and relevant to the practitioner’s area of practice, i.e. therapy, education or support services.
- A minimum of 6 hours of supervision/mentoring during the practice period. Supervision/mentoring will focus on enhancing the working partnership; development of treatment, curriculum or support plans; managing complex settings; and application of the NB-AAS model (taught in our Advanced courses) and other theoretical models and concepts to client or student presentations.
- Up to three of the supervision/mentoring sessions can be delivered in a group, and the remaining three must be individual.
- Completion of a discipline-specific Masterclass should ideally occur during this period however the Masterclass can be completed at a later date if required.
Handlers must record their professional practice hours in a logbook, which must be signed off by an approved supervisor/mentor and submitted to the course coordinator prior to graduation. In addition to the successful completion of the exam, approved supervisors/mentors will be required to attest to the team’s competency in the provision of CAS within the scope of their professional practice.
Professional Study & Exam (online)
Professional Study and Exam
- At commencement handlers are given access to the online professional training module including:
- Recommended reading for Professional AAS
- Discipline-specific research and practice materials
- Log book to record professional practice hours and mentor/supervisor feedback
- At completion of the professional practice and supervision/mentoring hours, the handler will complete an open book exam ensuring they have consolidated their professional knowledge and meet the competencies required of a professional AAS provider as outlined by the and the AASI
Course Information
Level Five Learning Objectives
Our final and highest level of Certification, handlers are considered professional practitioners in their chosen field, and competent to deliver CAS as a specialist scope of professional practice. Graduates have achieved training in at least one specialist application of CAS, completed 9 months of professional practice, and demonstrated broad knowledge of the field. Successful graduates are awarded with a Certificate in Animal Assisted Services (Canine).
Certified Practitioners are expected to successfully integrate their CAS practice with their primary training and occupation including:
- Development of discipline specific CAS skills and knowledge via attendance at Masterclass and professional supervision
- Engagement in reflective CAS practice under the guidance of an approved supervisor or mentor
- Intervention planning relevant to your profession, such as development of successful treatment or curriculum plans
- Development and delivery of appropriate interactions to effectively achieve client/treatment/educational goals
- Successful partnership with your therapy dog, demonstrating a strong collaborative working alliance and a depth of understanding about the value of your dog as a true partner in the work
Course Overview
- Completion of at least 9 months of professional practice in CAS and at least 9 hours of mentoring/coaching/supervision on that professional practice (incurred at the student’s own cost).
- Completion at least one Masterclass in a relevant specialist CAS application (e.g., CAS in trauma therapy)
- Demonstrated broad knowledge of the field via allocated readings and completion of an open book exam
Recognition of Prior Learning
There is no RPL for Level 2 or above.
Optional Additional Handlers
- Primary and Secondary handlers may attend Masterclass, and group supervision/mentoring, together
- Professional practice hours, and individual supervision/mentoring must be completed independently
- Open book exam must be completed independently
Course Dates and bookings 2025
Level 5 can be stared at any time, by commencing supervision/mentoring sessions, and commencing your logbook of work practice hours.
Email admin@leadthewayinstitute.com.au to obtain a list of approved supervisors/mentors and obtain your logbook. Please contact us to register your interest in attending specific Masterclasses.
Cost:
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$1040 AUD (inc. GST) per course (inc. Masterclass and exam)