About Paws For Support
At Paws For Support, we are dedicated to empowering lives with certified therapy dogs and transforming lives with expert dog training.
We deeply believe in the transformative power of the human–animal bond and work to create partnerships that enhance independence, confidence, and wellbeing for individuals, families, schools, and communities
Our Journey & Expertise
Over 20 years dedicated to training assistance and therapy dogs.
Led by Alan Sheppard, a government-approved, certified trainer with 30+ years’ experience and multiple accreditations in canine behaviour and assistance dog training.
Accredited members of the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (AAPDT).
Government-recognised dog training organisation – approved to officially assess and certify dogs to the highest standards.
Alan and the team have helped hundreds of owners train and certify therapy dogs, always with compassion, patience, and a practical approach.
Our Services
Tailored for individuals with disabilities, sensory, or neurological needs.
Training for specific tasks to assist daily independence.
Support through the Public Access Test (PAT).
Public access rights under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
Flexible options: owner-trained pathways or referrals to accredited providers.
Ongoing annual re-assessments for certification.
Therapy Dog Certification Without the Expensive Training
For private owners, clinicians, counsellors, healthcare professionals, schools, and volunteers.
Dogs assessed on the 5F Dog Obedience Test, temperament, and facility suitability.
Options include Personal Therapy Dogs for emotional support (without public access rights).
Certification comes with official ID and proof of training.
Helping schools create calmer, more connected learning environments.
Supporting students with anxiety, autism, and additional needs.
Official Melbourne assessors for Story Dogs.
Includes risk assessments, staff guidance, and certification
Helping schools create calmer, more connected learning environments.
Supporting students with anxiety, autism, and additional needs.
Official Melbourne assessors for Story Dogs.
Includes risk assessments, staff guidance, and certification
Helping schools create calmer, more connected learning environments.
Supporting students with anxiety, autism, and additional needs.
Official Melbourne assessors for Story Dogs.
Includes risk assessments, staff guidance, and certification
Optional Training & Behavioural Support
Why Choose Paws For Support?
✔ Government-recognised, trusted certification
✔ Flexible options – in-person Cheltenham or nationwide online
✔ Tailored programs to meet your dog’s specific role
✔ No unnecessary training – certify dogs already meeting standards
✔ Friendly guidance & transparent process – no hidden costs
✔ Ongoing support with refresher courses & resources
✔ Free pre-assessments & consultations“Not in Melbourne? No problem. We offer virtual meetings, online assessments, and video submissions so you can get certified from anywhere in Australia.”
What makes us different from other therapy dog programs? We make the process simple, fair, and fast. - Lean more about Therapy Dog Certification Programs
Why owners choose us for Assistance Dog Training and Certification? Learn more about our support dog program here.
Meet Alan, Your Program Leader
Alan Sheppard is more than a trainer – he’s a mentor for dog owners. With over 20 years of professional experience and multiple industry certifications, Alan has guided countless handlers and their dogs to success in therapy and assistance roles.
He holds recognised qualifications in canine behaviour and assistance dog training, including a prestigious service dog certification from the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Alan’s compassionate, hands-on approach has helped individuals and families across Australia gain the support, confidence, and companionship they need through well-trained assistance and therapy dogs.
His philosophy is grounded in patience, balance, and trust – ensuring every dog-handler team not only meets certification standards but thrives together.
Bowie my now therapy dog attends psychotherapy sessions along side me... Thank you Alan, your support has been excellent.
Alan, as a gifted trainer, has provided the support and guidance that have enabled me and my dog to learn together.
I just got my 7 year old golden retriever, Archie, accredited as a Therapy Dog, and we are beyond impressed...
Happy Handlers
Paws For Support Story
Ready to Transform Your Dog's Life?
Take the first step towards a rewarding journey with your dog. Sign up for our training programs or contact us for more information. Let’s work together to unlock your dog’s full potential!
