Certification

Navigate the Certification Path with Confidence

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At Certify Canine, we're dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals through the support of certified Working (Service and Facility) Dogs. Our mission is to establish the standard in the certification of these remarkable animals, ensuring they are recognized for their invaluable assistance in various environments and to individuals with diverse needs.

We believe in a world where every Working Dog is provided the opportunity to fulfill their potential in supporting communities and individuals. By offering a comprehensive certification process and partnering with a leading insurance company, we address critical gaps in the current system, providing third-party liability insurance for these dogs.

How Does Certifications Work?

Step 1: Comprehensive Registration for Rigorous Standards

Initiate your journey to certification through our HIPAA-compliant portal, where owners submit essential information, including contact details, the specific needs and tasks their dog fulfills, along with crucial dog information such as vaccination records and general health clearance. This step ensures a mutual understanding of the dog's role and adherence to public access rights, setting a strong foundation for certification.

• Dog Qualifications: Dogs eligible for certification must be between 1 and 11 years of age, up-to-date on vaccinations (DHPP, Rabies, Bordetella), with no breed restrictions.
• Human Qualifications: Handlers are required to demonstrate their ability to maintain their dog's service work readiness across various settings (home, veterinary care, etc.).
• There is a one time $75 Registration Fee to gain access to the Application Portal

Step 2: Rigorous Testing for Unmatched Reliability

Engage in a human-leaning course covering insurance understanding, public access guidelines, and federal/state rules. Success in this course, proven by achieving a set passing score, is essential for certification. This stage encompasses:

• Individual Assessments: Handlers undergo a written test on ADA guidelines, insurance law, and policies, while dogs must have documented proof of health and other prerequisites.
• Certification for Teams: Teams (handler and dog) must successfully navigate video or in-person testing in two distinct public environments (e.g., retail store, grocery, mall), showcasing public access and task-based skills.

Step 3: Membership and Integration into Our Community

Upon successful testing, teams are awarded a member ID, enabling the purchase of Certify Canine membership and registration with our Insurance Partner’s Working Dog Program. This step offers vital resources like a vesting/patch, member ID, and community connections, fostering a sense of belonging and support

• Upon a successful application submission an initial membership fee of $350 will be required to gain your membership ID. It is important to note, to maintain the high standards of our program and ensure continued insurance qualification, members are required to retest annually.
• Within 30 days of your first year anniversary with Certify Canine a recertification will be required to maintain standards. A $350 membership will also be required.
• Once a member has passed their first year recertification test, they will only be required to recertify every 2 years. A $350 membership will be required at testing.

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Are You An Organization Within The Working Dog Field?

Certify Canine actively partners with organizations committed to Working Dog advocacy and support. Our partners gain access to a comprehensive certification system, enabling them to certify Service, Facility, or Therapy Dogs internally, broadening the impact of Working Dogs’ support. Ideal partners include governmental departments, educational boards, service dog coalitions, registered breeders, and veterinary practices.

Partnership Memberships

• Organization Individual Membership: This membership is designed for individuals utilizing a Working Dog, such as a Service Dog, through a partner organization. It offers organizational level support and certification, mirroring our Owner Membership. Additionally, the Individual Membership can be integrated into a partner organization’s program as a supplementary resource, enhancing the support provided to members and clients who rely on Working Dogs.
• Organization Certifier Membership: Reserved for select staff within a partner organization, this membership is available to members who have completed our certifier course. Certifiers are empowered to certify their organization’s Working Dogs in line with Certify Canine’s standards, playing a crucial role in bridging organizational needs with industry-leading certification practices.