Training & Certification Program
Being there for someone on the worst day of their life takes training, practice, preparedness, readiness, skills, knowledge, and a deep personal commitment. Are you ready to become a force for good?
After decades of working alongside responders, and helping people in many forms of trauma, we’ve developed a comprehensive, trauma-informed training and certification program like no other. NATIONAL's training prepares you to be uniquely qualified to work with individuals, organizations, communities, and first responders — to make a true difference in people’s lives.
Here's How it Works:
1. Get Started
Train with us, with or without a canine partner, to get a better understanding of the work of crisis response, develop skills to help people in crisis, and learn if you and your dog might be a good fit for this kind of work. The Get Started course is a pre-requisite for the Canis Minor Mentorship.
2. Canis Minor Mentorship
This is an intensive, 4- to 8-month training with real world practicums, online courses, and technology training. You’ll have access to experienced mentors and live online classrooms to join other teams-in-training and gain the skills, knowledge and confidence you need.
3. Apply for Evaluation
After you complete the Canis Minor mentorship and certification requirements, you’ll be able eligible for the 2-day in-person Competency Evaluation to be evaluated for certification. Note: attending a competency evaluation is no guarantee of certification.
“I have been working through the 'Getting Started' modules and have been enjoying them very much. Thank you for providing such a comprehensive and engaging onboarding program."
– Training Participant