ICAN launches first community training program
For over twenty years, the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) has been the sole accredited service dog organization in Indiana, providing highly skilled and trained service dogs to individuals living with disabilities.
Having already successfully placed over 300 assistance dogs with Hoosiers in need, the organization is gearing up to showcase for the community exactly what it takes to train a service dog with the launch of its first-ever Apprenticeship and Training Program.
"This program is a long-held passion of mine and something I am so excited to get off the ground," expressed Sean Diamond, Vice President of Programs at ICAN. "The more people we can reach with the message of the vital role service dog training plays in our communities, the more individuals we can support through the use of service dogs."
The program will be spearheaded by ICAN’s dedicated full-time staff members and will unfold over two terms: the first half will be four months long and the second will be five months, with a summer break in between.
In the first half of the program, apprentices will participate in ICAN’s furlough volunteer training, work with ICAN’s incarcerated trainers at the Department of Correction, and master general dog care, health, and wellness.
The second part of the apprenticeship will focus on advanced service dog training. Apprentices will train alongside prospective ICAN clients, assess current ICAN service dogs in training, and work hands-on with their own ICAN service dog in-training.
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 assessing their capabilities in phase one, as phase two involves more advanced training and higher expectations.
To apply for admission into the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma
Be able to host a service dog in training at home
Live within 50 miles of the ICAN office in Zionsville, Indiana
Commit to a minimum of 12 hours a week in the office
There is also a $100 fee for those accepted into the program.
No prior dog training experience is required.
"This apprenticeship opportunity is going to be a one-of-a-kind experience," said Diamond. "By the time individuals finish our program, they will have gained comprehensive experience in dog training, enabling them to become highly skilled and knowledgeable in this field."
Upon completion of the program, graduates will receive a certificate from ICAN.
Applications for the inaugural ICAN Apprenticeship and Training Program are open now through December 1 (or until slots are filled). The first term will begin in January 2025.
ICAN will accept five apprentices for the initial term and will reopen applications for a new class in fall 2025.
Interested parties can apply here.
For additional questions, email Sean Diamond, ICAN Vice President of Programs, at sean@icandog.org.