How to Become a Certified Dog Trainer in Chicago
Some dog owners can feel they don't have time to invest in training their dogs properly. Some dogs require training to become good pets. Not every owner can train his dog so owners look for a professional. In Chicago, those wishing to obtain dog-trainer certification can fulfill the requirements of a recognized dog training certifying agency in the area.
Instructions
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Volunteer to work in an animal shelter such as the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society or the Chicago Animal Welfare League to gain experience training dogs. Locate a professional dog trainer in Chicago such as the Chicago Dog Trainer or Perfect Training to learn the profession. Talk to trainers to learn about their unique techniques and insights.
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Study dog behavior science and animal learning theories through books, web videos and magazine articles. Stay updated on new ideas and developments through books and magazines on these subjects. The Chicago Public Library system provides extensive resource material for would-be dog trainers, including information on nutrition, care, first aid and health and training techniques.
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Learn laws and regulations on dog ownership in Chicago. See a summary of leash laws, vaccinations for dogs and laws detailing owner responsibility at the Animal Legal and Historical Center (animallaw.info/statutes/stusilodchicago_hillside.htm).
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Contact the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers when you feel ready to sit for a certification exam. Download the candidate handbook, which contains an application form to allow trainers to sit for the test, offered twice yearly at testing locations in the United States and Canada.
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Attach references from a veterinarian, client and a CCPDT colleague attesting to your skills as a trainer. Submit these references, together with the application fee to
CCPDT Examination Professional Testing Corp.
1350 Broadway, 17th Floor
N.Y., N.Y. 10018 -
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Schedule an examination at one of several PSI/LaserGrade Computer Testing, Inc. facilities in the Chicago area. PSI/LaserGrade administers the exam. Call 800-211-2754 to register.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit walking the dog image by Frenk_Danielle Kaufmann from Fotolia.com