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Dog Certification
Paws for Support Dog Programs

Paws for Support helps clinicians, volunteers, and carers become certified therapy dog teams. Whether you're in a school, clinic, aged-care facility or offering remote support, this program guides you and your dog through a relaxed and straightforward recognition process.
Find the right certification for your needs. 
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Our Certification Programs

Why Choose Paws For Support?

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Therapy Dog Certification

Private 1 to 1 Owner/Handlers who want to Certify their own Therapy Animal
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Therapy Dog Teams

For Clinicians, Counsellors , Health Care Workers who want to form a Certified Therapy Dog Team
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Volunteer Therapy Dog Teams

For Volunteers who want to form a therapy dog team and visit facilities such as hospitals, schools and more. 
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Therapy Dog Program Assessor

For Organisations who offer animal assisted therapy or well-being programs and require an assessor for their providers. 
Coming Soon
Free Pre-Assessment's Run 7pm to 8pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Paws for Support, Cheltenham training facility
In Person and Virtual Assessments are available
START WITH A FREE PRE-ASSESSMENT
Call Alan on 0411 705 686 or send a message to enquire about the program and certification you need. 
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School Well Being Dogs Program

For Schools looking to implement a dedicated wellbeing dog in schools program
Free Information Nights &
Pre-Assessments
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Already Certified?

We offer re-certification and refresher programs
Get Re-Certified
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Assistance Dogs

Public Access - Australian Registered Service or Assistance Dog Training, Certification and Help with Registration & Compliance. 
STEP 1 - FREE CONSULTATION
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Therapy Dog Resources

Visit our blog for more information and resources about Therapy Dogs
lara freney animal assisted therapy dog handler
I just got my 7 year old golden retriever, Archie, accredited as a Therapy Dog, and we are beyond impressed...
Lara Freney
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ashley ogilvie therapy dog team participant
Bowie my now therapy dog attends psychotherapy sessions along side me... Thank you Alan, your support has been excellent.
Ashley Ogilvie
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Accredited Schools We Work With

Primary Schools:
Black Rock State School, Brighton Beach Primary, Cheltenham Primary School, Clarinda Primary School, East Bentleigh Primary, St. Justins (Wheelers Hill), Chelsea Primary School, Crib Point Primary School, Lang Warrin Primary School, St. Louis Aspendale, Mentone Grammar (ELC-Year 12), Mentone Girls Grammar, Nunawading Christian College (ELC)

Secondary Schools:
Aquinas College, McKinnon Secondary College, Mordialloc Secondary College, Mount Eliza Secondary College, Salesian College, Swinburne Secondary College (Prahran), Kilbreda Girls College, Bialik College

Special Needs Schools:
Tombolo (Special Needs), Springvale Park Special Development School

Success Stories & Accredited Schools

Many leading schools across Victoria and Australia have successfully implemented our well-being dog program.  Students benefit with reduced anxiety, improved focus, and calm learning environments.

Clarinda Primary School
Integrating Therapy Dogs into Student Wellbeing

Clarinda Primary School has embraced the integration of therapy dogs into its student wellbeing initiatives. The school has welcomed therapy dogs, including Sampson and Honey, who have become cherished members of the school community. These dogs participate in various activities, such as being read to by students and providing companionship during recess and lunchtime. Their presence has been instrumental in creating a supportive and nurturing environment, contributing to the emotional and social development of students.

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East Bentleigh Primary School
Enhancing Learning Through Therapy Dogs

East Bentleigh Primary School has implemented a therapy dog program aimed at supporting student learning and wellbeing. The program involves therapy dogs like Toby, who assist children in developing reading skills and building confidence. These dogs provide a calming presence, helping to reduce anxiety and improve focus among students. The initiative has been well-received, with positive feedback highlighting the benefits of incorporating therapy dogs into the educational setting.

Canis Dog Therapy. Labrador dog and disabled children on green grass. Dog-Assisted Therapies and

Why Choose Paws For Support

Why Choose Paws For Support?

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Choosing to train your own service dog offers flexibility and personal connection.

Our team provides:

  • Tailored training and step-by-step guidance
  • Legal clarity on registration and access rights
  • NDIS-friendly options and flexible payment plans
  • Reassurance from working with experienced, government-recognised assessors
  • Members of the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

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At Paws for Support, our mission is to provide friendly and comprehensive training and certification for Therapy, Well Being and Companion Dogs

Contact Us

For a comprehensive breakdown of the assessments or more details please contact Alan
Ph 0411 705 686 admin@pawsforsupport.com.au
Location Cheltenham
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Book your pre-assessment

Pre-Assessments are held, every Tuesday and Thursday.
Tuesday, 12th August
Thursday, 14th August

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admin@pawsforsupport.com.au 0411 705 686