accreditation addresses unregulated profession

Prince George home to two accredited dog trainers through new program

Nov 25, 2019 | 11:29 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – Launched in January, the BC SPCA introduced a new program after receiving hundreds of calls from dog owners about where and how to connect with a good trainer.

As a result, AnimalKind was implemented to put forth some form of rules and enforcement in what is otherwise an unregulated profession in Canada.

Cassie Young Dog Training and Sit Pretty Pet Services are the only two accredited trainers through the program in Prince George and are among the 18 to receive the recognition in the province so far.

Vanessa Charbonneau, owner of Sit Pretty Pet Services, said it propels the profession in the right direction.

“Having some degree of regulation is extremely important and exciting for us is a step in the right direction for the dogs so that people can now research their dog trainers and ensure that they’re using humane and science-based methods before they hire them to work with their animal.”

Charbonneau adds that an extensive auditing process of the business is required in order to receive the accreditation. Dog training auditors observe training facilities and equipment, review business records, speak to trainers and observe dog training classes, all before taking their report to an auditing panel where the final approval is given.

According to the BC SPCA, harmful methods of training continue to be used today. However, it’s been shown that science and reward-based training methods are more effective and better for dogs, ultimately having a substantial difference in the overall improvement in a dog’s behaviour.

The program was three years in development before being launched.