Become skilled in the field of service dog training
ICAN's Apprenticeship and Training Program provides a comprehensive and hands-on learning opportunity for individuals interested in mastering the art of service dog training. Participants will have the chance to be mentored by experienced professionals and earn a certificate of completion.
The program is led by ICAN’s dedicated full-time staff members and unfolds over two courses.
In the first half of the program, apprentices will participate in ICAN’s furlough volunteer training and learn basic dog training skills
The second half of the apprenticeship will focus on advanced service dog training.
Eligibility Requirements:
For those interested in applying, applicants must be:
At least 18 years of age
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Commit to 12+ hours/week
Be able to host an ICAN service dog in-training in their home
Have no more than two pet dogs in their home
Live within a 50-mile radius of the ICAN office in Zionsville, IN
Able to lift 35 lbs.
Comfortable with going to a Correctional Facility and working with incarcerated individuals
Agree to a background check
If a former incarcerated individual, must be out of prison a minimum of one year
Willing to provide personal references
Able to use personal laptop
No physical impairments that will impede ability to handle a large canine breed safely
For those accepted into the program, a $100 fee will be required.
During the first half of the program, apprentices will:
Participate and finish ICAN’s furlough training course
Become a Department of Corrections volunteer
Learn general dog care
Master canine health & wellness
Learn basic dog training
Attend furlough meetings
Have at least two ICAN service dogs in training on furlough
Help with ICAN’s Team Training
And more
During the second half of the program, apprentices will:
Have an ICAN service dog in-training for the duration of their apprenticeship
Attend and assist with ICAN’s Team Training
Attend ICAN client refreshers
Work with ICAN staff on visits to clients for assessments and training
Sit in on interviews with prospective applicants
Help with adult dog assessments
And more
What To Expect:
It's important to note that participation in the first half of the apprenticeship program does not guarantee admission into the second half. The decision on who will be invited to phase two will be based on an assessment of their capabilities in phase one, as phase two involves more advanced training and higher expectations.
What ICAN Provides:
For those accepted into the program, ICAN will provide apprentices with:
Crate
Training kit
Dog food
Equipment and gear for dog
Treat pouch and treats
Manual
ICAN T-shirt
*Most of the items will need to be returned to ICAN upon completion of the program.
