C). Not Having a Support System for Themselves to Help Meet the Dog's Daily Needs and Training
A key point is that any person who is helping you with your service dog must have the same approach to training that you do, or at least agree to handle your dog in the same way you do. If for example, you use positive reinforcement, and a helper handles your dog in a stress environment, they will not have the skills that you do and may set your dog way back in training by using methods or tools that you have not agreed to. This applies to groomers, dog walkers, veterinarians, the handlers caregivers and any other people involved in your dog’s care. It is best to have more people on your team since at times, not all of them will be available. Always have one or more back-ups!
You will need:
1). Someone to make sure the dog’s daily needs are met if you are not able to do this or become incapacitated for more than a day or so: feeding, pottying, exercise, play, social etc. This may cost extra money.
2). Someone who will be a training helper and create distractions while proofing training.
3). Transportation provider to move you and the dog where you need to go both for daily living and for training purposes.
4). People you can borrow training props form or who can make you training props.
5). Veterinarian (your dog’s health care provider)
6). Groomer (if needed)
7). Your mental and physical health care providers (who are they and what role will they play?)
Here is a checklist of a more complete list of support roles you may need.
