Purpose Training
Assistance Dog Training
Over the last 5 years I have been working with so many wonderful people and their dogs. As a contracted trainer, I work very closely with Liz Jackman – A Dogs Choice Training Services, based in Brisbane. My role is to assist her clients in Cairns with “hands on” service dog training sessions as they navigate the training program.
I am able to utilise my group training sessions for exposure, and also offer private sessions in a variety of locations to assist in every aspect of the Service/Assistance course. A well-trained service dog can change a life, and I love being able to assist people and their dogs with this training. I also work with clients who are enrolled with other program providers. Contact me on 0413 656 626 to start your service dog training today.
Purpose-driven skillwork
Emotional support readiness
Structured, ethical training
Emotional Steadiness
Therapy Dogs
I have a beautiful Golden Retriever named Ace who is a certified Therapy Dog. He is currently under contract at the Cairns Hospital Emergency Department & the Intensive Care Unit. We visit the hospital staff on a monthly basis to provide support, and brighten the day of everyone that enters the room. We have also been working with people in respite care, and have attended Early Education Centres presenting Dog Safety programs for many years.
Ace is also the first Therapy Dog working in a regional airport in Queensland. He provides support to travellers navigating the terminal environment from departure to arrival.
I have a lot of clients coming through my classes that are enrolled with Therapy Dog Programs. I can offer training and exposure in a safe environment for specific components of these courses.
I am registered as a Temperament Assessor of eligible dogs enrolled in Therapy Dogs Australia courses.
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FAQs
Everything You Need To Know
What is the difference between a service dog and a therapy dog?
A service dog performs trained tasks that support an individual’s specific needs, often related to disability or medical conditions. A therapy dog provides emotional comfort, companionship or calming presence in settings such as healthcare or community environments. Service dogs require specialised task training and regulated behaviour standards, while therapy dogs focus more on temperament, calmness and social engagement.
What kind of tasks can a service dog be trained to perform?
Service dogs may learn tasks such as grounding during anxiety episodes, retrieving items, opening doors, alerting to changes in the handler’s state, or providing deep pressure therapy. Training also includes consistent behaviour in public, navigating distractions and maintaining emotional stability. The tasks taught depend on the individual's needs, and each dog must demonstrate reliability before being considered for service roles.
What qualities make a good therapy dog?
A good therapy dog has a calm, friendly temperament and enjoys interacting with people. They should be comfortable around unfamiliar sights, sounds and movements, and able to remain relaxed in busy environments. Sensitivity, patience and emotional steadiness are essential. Dogs must also show reliable basic training skills and the ability to disengage from distractions without stress. Ongoing social exposure and positive reinforcement strengthen these qualities.
