Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Canine Refined
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No. Unfortunately, canine refined requires a minimum of 4 training sessions (including an initial home assessment) before a PAT can be conducted. For more information please contact us.
If you have completed a Public Access Test (PAT) with another trainer or organisation, you may qualify for a fast-track option. This allows you to move directly to a mock PAT and a PAT, bypassing the standard certification process.
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Send an email to info@caninerefined.com or use our contact form! Please note there is a one off application fee of $30 which will be charged after your application is successful.
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You can now see our fees on the ‘Service Fees’ page. For more information on service fees please contact Lauren at info@caninerefined.com
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Yes! Locations requiring more than 30mins travel for trainers will incur travel fee. Please enquire for quote. Lauren is also able to travel interstate for assessments and training. Please enquire for more information.
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To make sure you uphold the standards of an assistance dog, we require a re-sit of the PAT to be done every 12 months. If you are located outside of the 30 minute travel bracket of the trainer, you may be able to do this via video call depending on the circumstances.
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Prior to an initial assessment we will send out a form for you to fill out. This form will be sent out after you contact.
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If your dog meets the DDA's definition of an assistance dog, you have public access rights. However, if you are a client of Canine Refined and we believe your dog doesn't meet these standards, we will not support your dog doing public access.
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Canine refined will not assess potential assistance dogs with behavioural issues unless you are working with a behavioural trainer. Though Lauren is a qualified dog trainer, her services are specific to public access and assistance dogs as this is her specialty. If you are unsure if your dog is experiencing behavioural issues please feel free to contact us.
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Unfortunately, no. At Canine Refined, we only work with individuals and dogs who are suitable candidates for assistance dog training. Dogs with severe health conditions, such as elbow dysplasia, are not eligible for our programme.
We recommend consulting your vet to ensure your dog’s health is appropriately managed. These steps will help provide the best support for your dog’s specific needs.
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An initial assessment is done in your home. The trainer will get to know you and your dog as well an observe basic interactions. Depending on how far though your training journey you are, the initial session may be done on a pet friendly public area.
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Once you reach out to us, we will contact you to discuss how we can assist you. If you already have a dog, we'll send you our client application form and other relevant information. After your application is approved, we'll schedule an initial training session at your home or another pet-friendly location.
If you don't have a dog yet or prefer to speak with us before completing an application, Canine Refined offers initial pre-application consultations via video call or in person, depending on your location and preference. These consultations typically last about 30 minutes.
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Canine Refined is not an NDIS-approved provider. However, Lauren is an experienced disability support worker and has a good understanding of various NDIS policies.
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Lauren, an ACT accredited assistance dog trainer and assessor, adheres to the rigorous standards outlined in the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dog Act. These standards ensure that all assistance dog training not only meets but exceeds the minimal requirements set forth by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), ensuring the highest quality of training and accountability.