Client Connections
What two things should you focus on during your visits?
Being fully present and listening carefully to client and your animal’s wellbeing.
What should you keep turned off and never bring out during visits?
Your cell phone!!
How far away should you stay from other dogs while working in group settings?
8-10 feet
What should you do if your dog jumps on people?
Stop the behavior with gentle tones and actions, remove the animal from the situation, and notify the supervisor
What do you NOT have if you drop the leash?
Coverage under ITA’s liability insurance.
What special equipment should you use when navigating hallways with your dog?
A traffic lead (12” to 24”)
When is letting your dog off-lead allowed?
If you have been granted permission from ITA and are on the off-leash list.
What should you avoid letting your dog do to another animal when in a group setting?
Approach them and get "in their face"
How should you handle a dog that licks or kisses?
Warn each person close enough for a kiss
How many animals can you do AAA/AAT with at a time?
One!
What should you do if your facility’s contact changes?
Inform ITA
Where should you avoid letting your dog eliminate?
Around the entrances to a facility or near windows
What is your responsibility to your ITA colleagues?
Watching out for their health and safety and ensuring they are following ITA guidelines.
What should you do if your dog barks during a visit?
Stop the behavior with gentle tones and actions, remove the animal from the situation, and notify the supervisor
What should you do if your uniform or bandana is worn out?
Get a new one from ITA
What should you wear every time you’re representing ITA in public?
Your uniform
What should you do if you have an incident during a visit?
Call the ITA office to report it immediately
What is ITA’s training philosophy on how to train and interact with your animal?
Teach softly, speak softly, and guide.
How should you handle someone hugging your dog?
Interrupt and demonstrate the proper touch, and remove the animal if the person fails to follow your lead
What are the five components of your ITA uniform?
Red shirt, name tag, badge, bandana, dog tag
What should you do if you don’t feel valued at your facility or no longer want to visit?
Let ITA know
What type of animal assisted service may require you to take notes and requires a staff member to be right by your side?
AAT (Animal Assisted Therapy)
How early should you arrive to events and why?
15 minutes, so the dogs can meet each other before the event.
What should you do if your dog is not being a “perfect therapy animal” during a visit?
Don’t expect them to be perfect – stop your visit continue to observe them and make sure they are having fun.
How long should your visits last?
1 hour optimally. 2 hours maximum