Pawsitive Squad CIC Paws of Hope, Paws of Love, Paws of Life |
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Train Your Own Dog - You can train your own pet dog to become your assistance dog through a step-by-step program online with zoom classes with us.
Who Can Join - The program is for disabled young people (0–30), disabled parents with children, or past members needing a new dog.
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Disability & Need - You must have a disability (under UK law) and need your dog to do at least 3 helpful tasks in public.
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Dog Rules - Your dog must be friendly, healthy, between 5kg and 40 kg when fully grown, not aggressive, not fed raw, and not a flat-faced (e.g. pug)
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How It's Done Mostly online learning, with group Zooms, 1:1 support, online training zone. Travel to Nottingham for assessments - 3 x while in training, once annually when fully trained. Also optional workshops in Nottingham.
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Costs - £70/month in training £6/month when fully trained.
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Funding Help - You may get help from local councils, EHCP budgets, Access to Work, charities, or fundraising. We have 4 x full scholarships per year - 2 for children in palliative care with life threatening/ life limiting conditions, 2 x for care experienced people.
Want to join? First need to complete an introduction course which explains in more detail - book here: www.pawsitivesquad.co.uk/events
Assistance Dog Program
Welcome to our Assistance Dog Program — a comprehensive, mostly virtual training experience & community designed to support you every step of the way to train your own dog as a assistance dog. Our program is led by Heather Pyne, an experienced trainer who not only brings professional expertise, but also lived experience as a disabled person and parent to disabled children. We’re also lucky to have the most incredible volunteer mentors, an assistant trainer, and a dedicated behind-the-scenes team who all contribute their time, care, and experience to support you.
With clear and transparent monthly membership pricing, everything you need is included — no hidden costs, no surprises. We believe in giving you all the information you need to make the right decision for you and your dog... so yes, there is a lot to read below (sorry about that!) — but don’t worry! If you choose to join us, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know during our introduction course.
Eligibility
1. Age & household eligibility Our Assistance Dog Program is open to the following groups: a. Young People with Disabilities or Serious Illness Aged 0 months to 26 years at the time of application with or without parent/carer support.
b. Disabled Parents and Children in the Same Household Households where both a disabled parent and a disabled young person (under 26 years old) are training the dog to support both individuals OR in a household with multiple disabled young people e.g. disabled siblings. C. Successor Dog Applicants
D. Adults Aged 26–30
2. Disability Criteria Applicants must have a disability as defined under the Equality Act 2010: “A physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.” This is a legal requirement for anyone to have an assistance dog, regardless of the organisation or whether the dog is owner-trained. 3. Task-Based Need Applicants must demonstrate a need for the dog to perform at least three (3) assistive tasks in public spaces to significantly reduce the impact of their disability on daily living. 4. Dog Ownership and Suitability Applicants must already own a friendly, non-aggressive dog that is:
5. Commitment and Care Responsibilities
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Assistive tasks
To be eligible for our program 3 of the tasks must support your medical, care, emotional and support needs. We've split these into categories to make it easier to navigate but you can choose any of the tasks below as long as they support your specific needs relating to being disabled.
Tasks which support physical or mobility related needs
Sensory, emotional and mental health support tasks
Medical and Hearing alert & response tasks
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Training & timetables
At Pawsitive Squad CIC, we are committed to providing consistent, accessible, and inclusive support to all our members through a well-rounded and flexible program. We guarantee the following each month (excluding August and December): · A minimum of 9 Zoom group classes per training level · A minimum of 9 assistive task Zoom classes. · A maintained Virtual Learning Zone for self-guided dog training. · A maintained Virtual Learning Theory Program tailored to each training level. · A minimum of 4 one-to-one (1:1) sessions, available on a first come, first served basis. These are the very minimum we guarantee to offer. In practice, our monthly offering is usually significantly greater, with more classes, learning resources, and one-to-one opportunities regularly provided to further enrich your training experience. If, for any reason, we are unable to meet these guarantees in a given month (excluding August and December), you may request a full refund of your membership fee for that month. We usually offer two blocks of daytime classes and two blocks of evening classes per week. Classes are currently held on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, though this schedule is subject to change based on demand and instructor availability. In addition to virtual classes, we typically offer monthly in-person workshops on Saturdays and monthly assessments on Sundays. These sessions are held in line with our temperature and weather policy, and may be rescheduled or cancelled if conditions are unsuitable for safe and effective training. | .png) |
Cost
Our membership fee for assistance dog in training is £70 per calendar month. Our membership fee for fully trained partnerships is £6 per calendar month.
Membership fees are reviewed each April and may be adjusted annually to reflect changes in:
· Running costs
· Inflation
· Service expansion and improvement
We guarantee to provide at least 30 days’ notice of any fee changes.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we remain committed to keeping our services affordable, while ensuring we can continue to offer a high standard of support for you and your dog
Funding Support
There maybe support available for fund the assistance dog program for you/ your child. Below is a list of some options which may be available to you.
1) Funding through your local authority including through short breaks. Some adult clients have been granted funding for 12 months of the assistance dog program as part of their social care provision. This is usually capped at 12 months however so it's important to have a plan for how you pay for the program moving forward. You would need to discuss this possibility with your social worker.
We have several families who have been granted permission to use their short breaks funding for the assistance dog program where the young person would not realistically be able to access other provisions where the primary care giver goes off site/ where they would go out with other carers. Most disabled young people who recieve mid or high DLA are eligible for short breaks funding. Search your local authority website for more information or speak with your social worker/ family support worker for more information. We have a proposal letter which can be downloaded here to submit to your local authority short breaks team to request permission to use the short breaks funding for us: Short breaks proposal for pawsitive squad assistance dog program .pdf
2) Funding through a personal budget as part of the EHCP - If the young person wanting to train their dog as an assistance dog is not able to access a full time education, the local authority may consider funding the assistance dog program as part of their educational provision. You can download a proposal letter for the assistance dog program as an educational provision here: Educational proposal for asistance dog program commissioning.pdf
please note, this is for the assistance dog program outlined here. For a more bespoke 1:1 animal centred educational provision, we have an alternative provision service. Please go to alternative provision to find out more.
3) Grants from disability-specific charities - There are lots of charities that provide grants to disabled children and young people, each coming with its own specific eligibility criteria. When looking to obtain a grant towards assistance dog training from charities, we recommend you apply to charities that offer support for your specific disability. Even if these charities are unable to support you, they may be able to signpost you towards other potential funders.
4) Grants from accessing work & building better opportunities (BBO) projects and programs in your local area -This may be an option for prospective clients aged 16 - 25 if you would need an assistance dog to be able to access employment. Simply search for your local access to work/ building better opportunity project provider If they're not able to provide funding support they may be able to signpost you to potential funding sources.
5) Crowdfunding - There are several crowdfunding platforms where sharing your assistance dog aim may enable you to get donations from the general public towards your journey. Tree of Hope offers a crowdfunding platform through their charity which has lots of benefits including being able to add gift aid to donations and being more likely to obtain matched funding and corporate funding. Other crowdfunding platforms which may be suitable include Go Fund Me and Just Giving.
6) Personal Health Budgets from the NHS - If your receives continuing care from the NHS or you receive NHS Continuing Healthcare you're eligible for a personal health budget. In some circumstances, you may be able to use this personal health budget to fund your assistance dogs training. You can read about an assistance dog (not with Pawsitive Squad) who was trained using their personal budget by clicking here.
7) Other grant providers, community organisations etc - It maybe worth approaching your local rotary club or similar organisation to ask if they're able to provide funding support.
8) US - Families and individual may apply for a scholarship to reduce your monthly membership to £45 per month if the full membership fee is just not achievable for you. To apply for this please email us at enquiries@pawsitivesquad.co.uk. Please note, to apply for a scholarship you will be required to provide evidence of 3 months of income and expenditure as well as savings. Scholarships are considered by the board of directors on a case by case basis.
Equipment
You will need: - A dog! (vaccinated, not raw fed, flea & wormed etc) and who doesn't have any major behavioural or emotional issues (if they are reactive, severely anxious or aggressive, please don't apply, you need to work through this with a behaviourist first!) - Appropriate non aversive collar & lead (we recommend a KUMFI harness as these fit well under our working vests and allow multiple contact points plus a lead, we recommend a HALTI training lead (NOT HEAD COLLAR THESE ARE NOT PERMITTED). - Dog treat pouch & a variety of training rewards - A variety of dog toys (you need at least 2 identical toys your dog likes, so if you find something they really enjoy get a few of them in the same colour please!) - Dog muzzle with pant room (your dog needs to be able to open their mouth in the muzzle you can find out more HERE) - First aid kit including at minimum non adhesive dressing, cotton bandages and vet wrap - Target stick (optional) - Long line (no extendable leads permitted!) - A portable fabric mat - A boundary for home - we recommend a raised bed but a standard dog bed or crate is fine as well. - Some sort of platform your dog, a good option is an exercise step or a couple of yoga blocks - At least 6 hard, non breakable cups - Food centred enrichment puzzle/ mat e.g. lick mat, slow feeder bowl, snuffle mat etc. |
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Commitment required
- For assistance dog in training clients, a minimum attendance of 4 different classes per month (1 hour total) is required.
- The exception is August where attendance is not mandatory due to holidays and reduced timetable, and December has a minimum attendance of 2 different classes within the month.
- There is no class requirement for fully trained assistance dog classes, though fully trained partnerships may attend classes if they wish.
- If clients cannot meet the required attendance and commitment, then we are not a suitable program for them. We cannot change our expectations for individual clients.
- Clients who miss the minimum requirement of attendance for 2 months (consecutively or non-consecutively) will be removed from the program. If clients feel this should be waived due to exceptional circumstances, then a written, video or audio recorded request to remain on the program explaining & evidences the circumstances and how the client will be able to re-meet the attendance requirements moving forward must be provided to the board of directors for consideration within 30 days of notification to remove from the program.
- Outside of Pawsitive Squad sessions, handlers should ensure their dog has community-based training on top of their usual exercise walks at least once per week.
- On top of the practical commitments, handlers must be commited to being open and honest about their disabilities and health needs and happy to provide evidence of these upon request.
Ready to join us?
The very first step to joining our assistance dog program is to complete our Introductory Course. This essential course provides you with an opportunity to experience our approach, learn what the program involves, and decide if it’s the right fit for you. It also ensures that all participants begin with the same foundational knowledge needed for successful assistance dog training. You can view the dates of our upcoming introductory courses www.pawsitivesquad.co.uk/events . Upon completion, if you choose to continue, you can join the full program immediately—just sign your client contract and you'll be ready to begin your journey with us.
Frequently asked questions
General Program Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the Assistance Dog Program?
A: The program empowers disabled young people and their families to train their own assistance dogs through structured, force-free training, fostering independence and well-being. Assistance dog can accompany their disabled handler to places where pet dog are not permitted.
Q: What is the cost?
A: £70/month for assistance dogs in training.
£6/month for fully trained partnerships.
Fees are reviewed annually with at least 30 days’ notice of changes.
Application & Assessment
Q: How do I apply?
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Attend an Introductory Course (book via the website).
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Submit paperwork via a personalised Dropbox link.
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Complete all four Intro sessions.
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Sign the contract within 60 days.
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Pay the invoice to confirm your place.
Q: How often are assessments required?
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Bronze: Within 12 months of joining.
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Annual reassessments: Required each year for all clients.
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Viability assessments: Triggered after 2 years on the program or age 3 if Gold is not achieved.
Welfare and training
Q: What is Pawsitive Squad’s approach to canine welfare?
A: We are committed to the highest standards of canine wellbeing. Welfare is never compromised for training goals or human needs. We prioritise respect, empathy, and trust over control and demand.
Q: Are aversive training methods allowed?
A: No. Aversive methods or equipment—such as prong collars, choke chains, shock devices, yelling, intimidation, or dominance-based techniques—are strictly prohibited. All training is force-free and uses positive reinforcement only.
Q: Do I need to complete any canine welfare training?
A: Yes. All clients must complete the Canine Welfare and Emotion Training via the Virtual Learning Zone before starting practical work with their dog.
Q: What happens if the weather is extreme?
A: Dogs are vulnerable to heat, cold, and adverse weather. Activities may be adapted or postponed to ensure dogs’ safety. Pawsitive Squad strictly follows their weather safety policy.
Q: Is kennel boarding allowed?
A: No. Dogs in the program must not be kept in kennels (including commercial or outdoor home kennels). If care is needed, dogs must stay in their own home or in a sitter’s home—not in a kennel environment.
Q: How is training designed to support wellbeing?
A: We use a concept-centred approach that nurtures emotional regulation, resilience, and decision-making. Training is built around each dog’s individual needs and long-term wellbeing.
Q: What healthcare is required for my dog?
A: Dogs must have routine vet checks, vaccinations, and flea/tick/worm prevention. If a dog is unwell or recovering, they must be given adequate time to rest before returning to training.
Q: How much rest does my dog need?
A: Dogs must have regular rest between and during activities. Overworking or overstimulation is not allowed. Rest days and quiet time are essential for their emotional and physical health.
Q: What does ‘canine consent’ mean in this context?
A: Dogs should never be forced into interactions or settings that cause them stress. If they show signs of discomfort, they must be allowed to disengage, rest, or leave. Handlers are trained to read and respect body language.
Q: Is socialisation with other dogs or people required?
A: Only if it’s in the dog’s best interest. All dog-to-dog or dog-to-human interaction must be calm, safe, and appropriate for the dog’s personality and emotional state.
Q: What if my dog isn’t suited to assistance dog work?
A: Not every dog is suited for the role, and that’s okay. Suitability is assessed on temperament, willingness, resilience, and enjoyment. If a dog is distressed or not thriving, we will work with you to adjust goals or respectfully withdraw them from training.
Q: Can I raw feed my dog while in the program?
A: No. Raw feeding is not permitted for any dogs in the program. All dogs must be fed cooked or commercially prepared food for health, safety, and hygiene reasons, particularly because they will be working in public environments and interacting with vulnerable individuals
Bronze Award
Q: What does the Bronze Award cover?
A: Foundational obedience, emotional regulation, and canine theory. Assistive tasks are not taught at this level.
Q: Can I access non-pet-friendly public places at this stage?
A: No. Dogs must not enter places that don’t allow pet dogs, even with permission, until the Bronze Award is passed.
Q: What do I receive after passing Bronze?
A: You’ll receive a Pawsitive Squad Assistance Dog in Training lead sleeve.
Silver Award
Q: What is the focus at Silver level?
A: Public access manners and your dog’s first assistive task. You must demonstrate control, navigation skills, and emotional regulation in public.
Q: Can I go into public places with my dog at this stage?
A: Yes, with limitations. You may train in non-pet-friendly places at the business’s discretion, but you have no legal public access rights.
Q: What do I receive after passing Silver?
A: You’ll receive an Assistance Dog in Training jacket.
Gold Award
Q: What is the focus at Gold level?
A: Reliable public access behaviour and three assistive tasks performed confidently in real-world settings.
Q: What do I receive after passing Gold?
A: You’ll receive a Fully Trained Assistance Dog jacket and lead sleeve.
Q: Does training stop after Gold?
A: No. Clients are encouraged to continue attending classes. Fully trained partnerships also have ongoing reporting and annual reassessments.
Record Keeping & Attendance
Q: What reports do I need to submit?
A: In-training partnerships: 3-monthly training and health & welfare records. Fully trained partnerships: Annual working report due by 14 April.
Q: What are the class attendance requirements?
A: Minimum 4 different Zoom classes/month (except August and December). Missing attendance for 2 months in a year will lead to removal from the program.
Equipment & Identification
Q: Do I own the jacket and lead sleeves?
A: No. All equipment is loaned and remains the property of Pawsitive Squad CIC. It must be returned if you leave the program.
Q: Can I request certificates or rosettes?
A: Yes. These are available upon request for an additional fee.
Dog Grooming
Q: Are there grooming requirements?
A: Yes. Dogs must be maintained in a natural coat style (no stylised or show cuts). Regular brushing, dental care, nail care, and appropriate professional grooming are required.
Q: Can I dye my dog’s coat?
A: No. Hair colouring is not permitted under any circumstances due to health, communication, and welfare concerns.
Program Withdrawal & Reapplication
Q: Why might I be removed from the program?
A: Common reasons include:
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Not meeting attendance or reporting requirements
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Dog behavioural or health issues
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Not passing assessments
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Changing needs or no longer requiring a dog
Q: Can I reapply with a new dog?
A: Yes, if the previous dog stays with your family. If the previous dog is rehomed after removal, reapplication is not permitted unless in exceptional cases (e.g. safety concerns).
©copyright 2018-2026 Pawsitive Squad CIC. All rights Reserved. Pawsitive Squad is a registered community interest company (non profit organisation) number 1145 1119 (England and Wales) | enquiries@pawsitivesquad.co.uk |
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