Working Home Process & Expectations

 

The working home plays a crucial role in the development and success of the assistance dog. By following the instructions in the Training and Care Booklet, attending regular training sessions, and maintaining open communication with StrikeMore trainers, the working home will ensure that the dog continues to grow and thrive in its role.

StrikeMore is committed to supporting the working home every step of the way, ensuring that both the dog and the working home are set up for success as they work together to meet the specific needs of the handler.

 

Once a dog has completed its initial 18-month development period at StrikeMore, it is then matched with a working home where it will begin specialised training based on the specific needs of the individual that the dog will serve. This document outlines the process, expectations and responsibilities for the working home during the subsequent 12-18 months of specialized training, including detailed care instructions, training support and ongoing communication with StrikeMore trainers.

 

Specialised Task Training

After the initial 18-month period of general development and socialisation at StrikeMore, the dog will be matched with its working home. StrikeMore will then focus on the dog’s specialised task training, tailored to the specific requirements of the working home. This phase of training is expected to take another 12-18 months, during which the dog will be trained to perform specific tasks, behaviours and skills that directly support its handler’s needs.

The working home is expected to work closely with StrikeMore trainers and staff throughout this period to ensure that the dog learns and adapts to its new role effectively.

 

Training and Care Booklet

To ensure the working home is fully equipped to care for the dog and continue its training, StrikeMore will provide a comprehensive Training and Care Booklet. This booklet will include detailed information on everything the working home will need whilst preparing for the dog, alongside information needed when the dog is placed in the home. 

Retirement Plan - Information on how the dog’s eventual retirement will be managed and what the working home should expect during this transition.

 

Communication and Support

Throughout the specialised training process, the working home is encouraged to reach out to StrikeMore with any questions or concerns about the training or the dog’s well-being. Communication is vital to ensuring the success of the training and the long-term partnership between the dog and the working home.

If any issues arise or if there are uncertainties about the training or care process, the working home should contact StrikeMore immediately for guidance or clarification.

 

Training Sessions with StrikeMore Trainers

To ensure that the working home and the dog are building a strong, effective working relationship, StrikeMore will schedule regular ‘training sessions’ with both the working home and the dog. These sessions will help the working home to -

- Learn how to handle and care for an assistance dog.

- Reinforce the specialised tasks the dog is learning.

- Strengthen the bond between the working home and the dog, ensuring mutual trust and understanding.

These sessions will occur throughout the 12–18-month training period and will be tailored to address the unique needs of the working home and the dog.

 

As part of the continued support from StrikeMore, the working home will receive guidance on maintaining training consistency and addressing any behavioural issues that may arise. StrikeMore trainers will provide feedback and advice to ensure the dog is progressing as expected and that the working home is equipped to manage the dog’s tasks effectively.

 

Payment of the dog’s needs

Whilst the dog is in StrikeMore’s care, all expenses are paid for by StrikeMore. Once the working home has gone through the transfer programme and signed the working home contract, The working home is then expected to pay for any of the dog’s needs, including but not limited to dietary needs, insurance, flea and worming treatment and enrichment. 

 

Retirement and Transition

Towards the end of the dog’s working life, StrikeMore will provide the working home with a retirement plan that outlines the steps involved in transitioning the dog from active duty to retirement. This includes -

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- A timeline for retirement.

- Suggestions for rehoming the dog or integrating it into the working home’s daily life.

- Guidelines for managing the dog’s health and well-being in retirement. 

 

StrikeMore will remain in contact with the working home after retirement to support the dog’s retirement and ensure a smooth transition.