FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you provide fully trained assistance dogs?
At lifeline K9s we do not provide fully trained assistance dogs. We give you the skills in our fully supported programme to train your own dog to be a fully qualified assistance dog.
What age can my dog start training with Lifeline K9s?
Dog's can begin their training from 6 months old. I highly recommend that you attend puppy classes regularly until your dog is at the age they can begin. I highly recommend Sam Fraser at paws to train and behaviour.
Is there a maximum age a dog can begin training?
The maximum age a dog can begin their assistance dog training with us is between 3 and 5 years of age. This is dependent on your dogs breed.
How long does it take to train an assistance dog?
It takes a minimum of 24 months to fully train. Your previous experience with training and your dogs trainability can have an effect on how long it takes.
Can any dog become an assistance dog?
Not every dog is suitable to work as an assistance dog. Not all dogs have the required temperament and not all dogs are able to experience the environments that an assistance dog will work in. If you have any concerns or questions please contact us for a free consultation.
What happens if my dog is not able to continue training to be an assistance dog?
In the unfortunate event that we feel your dog is not able to continue their training to be a fully trained assistance dog you will be contacted discreetly to have a discussion about concerns. If at any point you are concerned about your dogs suitability please contact us for support.
You will be offered training for your dog to be a companion dog. This means that you and your dog can continue your training so they can assist you at home. They will not be able to undertake the public access training or be able to purchase an in training vest.
Does my dog need insurance?
Yes, your dog must have public liability insurance as a minimum. We highly recommend you have health insurance too.
Can I train a dog for someone under 16?
You can train a dog for a young person who lives with you but they will not be able to handle the dog without an appropriate adult. We advise that if possible the young person has some involvement with training at home.
Will my dog be a registered assistance dog?
There is no official register or certification in the UK for assistance dogs. As long as your dog is well behaved and mitigates your disability you are cover by the Equality Act 2010.
Can Lifeline K9s help with access issues?
We provide official letters confirming you and your dog are undergoing training and the level your dog has achieved. We are also happy to converse with businesses that you have had access issues.
What age can my dog take a public access test?
You and your dog can take a public access test after they are 2 years old. Your dog must also be neutered prior to taking their public access test (some exceptions apply).
When does my dog have to stop working?
Dogs go into retirement between the ages of 8 and 10. This age depends on your dog breed and health. If your dog becomes fearful or reactive they may need to take a break for further training or retire early. If your dog has health issues that they can not fully recover from they may have to retire early. Your vet will give you advice on if their health means they can no longer work.
What happens when my dog gets close to retirement age?
When your dog is nearing their retirement age we start reducing how often they work. This makes it a slow faze to help they transition into a non working role. If you are considering training another assistance dog when they retire we may recommend bringing in a puppy prospect with enough time to nearly complete their training.
Will my dog have to pass an assessment?
While there is currently no law on assistance dogs having to pass a public access assessment, in order to pass your training and continue to work your dog under Lifeline K9's you must pass a public access assessment yearly. This is to ensure that training standards are met and to identify any gaps in training as your dog works from year to year.