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#2 - Pet Partners®
Skills & Aptitude Test (PPSAT) Next PPSAT planned for April/May 2016 - Dates TBA Approximately 6-9:00 pm - see below for address & map |
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Please do not wait for our next Handlers Workshop, Skills & Aptitude Test or Dog Training to us. Advance preparation is required & we are here to help you succeed!
*** We always need volunteers to assist in our PPSAT's which is a wonderful way to learn more about the tests! If you are willing to help please . Please click HERE for more information on assistance required.
*** We always need volunteers to assist in our PPSAT's which is a wonderful way to learn more about the tests! If you are willing to help please . Please click HERE for more information on assistance required.
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On this page you will find:
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IMPORTANT NOTE FOR DOG HANDLERS: There are several distinct differences between Pet Partners, other therapy dog registries, and the AKC CGC tests (see below). Please make sure you prepare wisely well in advance & begin appropriate dog training with one of our recommended dog trainers if necessary ASAP. Successful completion of the Pet Partners Handlers Course (without pets) is required before teams are eligible to take the skills & aptitude test (PPSAT) and we ask that candidates familiarize themselves with the basics of all necessary requirements before registering for the Handlers Workshop. It can be helpful to complete the Handlers Workshop concurrent with dog training but dog training should begin as soon as possible! Ideally, candidates will complete dog training prior to the Handlers Workshop. Pet Partners allows up to 2 years following completion of the Handlers Workshop to pass the PPSAT, preferably within 3 months!
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Overview
In order to become an Angel Paws Animal/Handler volunteer team you must first become a registered (and insured) Pet Partners Team. A thorough demonstration and discussion of the Pet Partners Skills & Aptitude Test is included in the Pet Partners Handlers Workshop. Additional Angel Paws Volunteer Training & Orientation will follow for those who pass the Pet Partners Skills & Aptitude Test.
Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society) is internationally respected for its comprehensive screening, training and registration of animal-handler teams that possess appropriate skills, aptitude and handler knowledge to interact safely and effectively in any and all situations that may occur in a variety of facilities (Schools, Nursing Homes, Alzheimer's Care Units, Psychiatric Units, Hospices, Rehabilitation Centers, Hospitals, Shelters and Prisons).
The Pet Partners Skills & Aptitude Test (PPSAT = PPST & PPAT) has been developed and revised over time by experienced professional animal behaviorists, health care professionals, animal trainers, veterinarians, etc. to closely simulate situations and circumstances that can and do occur in a health care facility, school, shelter or other venues. Pet Partners wants you and your animal to be comfortable and equipped to handle anything that comes your way so that you, your animal, and all others that you encounter, are not only safe but confident and relaxed during any and all interactions. Angel Paws will help you decide which one of the facilities we partner with that would be most suitable for you and your pet to visit in but the basic skills and aptitude required must be present for all. PLEASE VISIT CAN MY DOG BE A THERAPY DOG (helpful even for other species ) AND ACCEPTABLE EQUIPMENT.
The skills and aptitude (PPST & PPAT) test is conducted by a Trained and Licensed Pet Partners Animal/Handler Team evaluator. The skills portion of the test is based on the Canine Good Citizenship Test but does not follow American Kennel Club rules in that you may cue your animal more than once (3 tries) to get the required behavior. Handlers are not only encouraged but required to work closely with their animal, using a pleasant tone of voice and/or hand signals, to encourage, support, praise & help them succeed while interacting with evaluator and assistants at the same time - just as if they are on a visit.
Role playing, TEAMWORK & PRO-active leadership is emphasized! BOTH animals AND handlers are scored and must demonstrate an effective, working relationship with each other. No treats, toys or physical force (pulling, jerking or pushing) are allowed. Both animal and handler will be scored on each exercise (see Handler Assessment tip sheet below). The lower of the 2 scores will be the team score for the exercise. Scores are either; 2 (best), 1 (passing), Not Ready (may try again another day), or Not Appropriate (may not try again). Teams scored Not Ready are encouraged to try again, (but not the same day). Many times, the team does not test well the first time, but passes with flying colors the second time. Teams scored Not Appropriate (any extreme stress or aggression) are NOT allowed to try again. Pet Partners must be re-evaluated every two years to assure continued suitability and to maintain standards of quality and consistency; and the animal must be re-screened for health annually. Team Evaluation Testing & Renewal tips can be found below - these tips are equally important for new volunteer candidates to keep in mind as they begin training and socializing their pets in preparation to pass the test for the first time and for veteran Pet Partners. Don't hesitate to us if you have any questions at all - we are here to help you succeed!
For small dogs, cats and alternate species visit our "not just dogs" page.
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The Pet Partners® Skills & Aptitude Test
Diagram below is 2 pages It's important to understand how exercises are scored as well as what is required during the exercises. See below for purpose, process & scoring information details & tips.
IMPORTANT VIDEO NOTE: *** The PPSAT Videos provided are examples of what teams will be asked to do in the PPSAT and are for instruction purposes only. The candidate's behavior in these examples are NOT to be presumed as what is desired or required. Whether these examples demonstrate desired or undesired behaviors of both animals & handlers will be discussed in your Handlers Workshop. *** For instance, the video of the test exercise provided below is an example of a leash that is too tight. There should be visible slack in the leash and the dog should be responsive to a verbal cue to stay close, wait, etc. To view the complete test on YouTube click the blue button below. There may be slight variations of specific distractions utilized, room size and configuration, evaluator style, instructions etc. in your test.
Video example of leash too tight ...
It's important to understand how exercises are scored as well as what is required during the exercises. See below for purpose, process & scoring information details & tips. *** How video examples are scored, desired, undesired behaviors of both animals & handlers will be discussed in your Handlers Workshop.
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General Prerequisites & Requirements
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HANDLERS:
* Handlers are 50% of team but 100% responsible! 1. IT IS THE HANDLERS RESPONSIBILITY TO KNOW AND UNDERSTAND ALL REQUIREMENTS. A thorough demonstration and discussion of the Pet Partners Skills & Aptitude Test is included in the Pet Partners Handlers Workshop. 2. Handlers must be at least ten (10) years of age. 3. Handlers younger than 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and must have written permission to participate from a parent or guardian. 4. Handlers must have known the animal they plan to visit with for a minimum of 6 months. Handlers to be evaluated with pet not their own must have written permission from owner and animal must have lived with owner for at least 6 months. 5. Handlers must be well groomed, appropriately dressed, confident, relaxed, friendly and outgoing with a variety of people. 6. Handlers must provide: Completed Pet Partners Handler's Questionnaire (provided in Handlers Course), current Rabies Vaccination certificate and signed indemnity forms; Towel or blanket if Animal will be carried; Acceptable collar or harness, Acceptable leash (no metal or retractable leashes); & Animal's appropriate brush or comb. 7. Handlers must interact with both animals and people in a calm, enthusiastic and pleasant manner at all times just as if they are on a visit - demonstrate appropriate social skills (eye contact, smiles, confident posture, conversation etc.) 8. Handlers must demonstrate the ability to PRO-actively (as opposed to RE-actively) act as animal’s advocate in all situations, effectively reading animal’s cues (stress, excitement, discomfort, fatigue etc.) anticipate animal's responses in advance and support, direct or distract accordingly. (see LEADERSHIP) 9. Both animal and handler must work as a TEAM in harmony and synchrony with constant, non-forceful, pleasant and respectful communication (verbal and non-verbal) with one another. 10. Any and all behavior and interactions of either animal or handler observed at any time anywhere on evaluation grounds is subject to consideration and may impact the results of the test. Any sign of aggression or intimidation toward any animal or person is grounds for a score of “Inappropriate for Visiting” |
ANIMALS:
1. Animals must be well groomed just as if they were going in a visit (bathed, thoroughly brushed out, eyes and ears cleaned & nails clipped) be at least one (1) year of age (6 months sufficient for some species), have lived with their owner for at least 6 months (1 year fro birds) and be in good physical condition, able physically and mentally to do the work. Animals to be evaluated with handler other than owner must have written permission from owner. 2. Animals must demonstrate that they are relaxed and under complete control (LOOSE leash, verbal &/or visual NOT physical) at all times. Animals must not jump, hop up, or put feet on furniture or people uninvited. Animal must show that he/she is reliable, predictable, well mannered and that he/she performs willingly and on cue to the following behaviors (depending on the species & size of animal being tested): Sit; Down; Stay (for 2 -3 seconds; Walk on LOOSE leash (quietly with NO pulling, tugging, or wandering - leash as insurance rather than “crutch”); Come (from 10 feet directly to the handler). (See; Recommended Dog Training, What Kind of Training Does My Dog Need ... & Positive Reinforcement Dog Training) 3. Animals must demonstrate that they have the ability to NOT simply tolerate but rather seek and enjoy interaction with a variety of different people in each exercise - demonstrating a relaxed body posture and facial expressions that show they are friendly, calm, well mannered and willing to be handled and restrained by people who walk, talk, and behave differently (wild gesturing, angry yelling, exuberant and clumsy). (See SOCIALIZATION) 4. Animals must demonstrate confidence around various hospital equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, IV poles, etc.) and loud noises. 5. Animals must demonstrate that they are calm and well mannered around other animals WITHOUT being allowed to greet. 6. Animals must at all times inspire confidence and comfort in the person he/she is interacting with - even those who are not generally comfortable around or may even be afraid of animals. At no time may animals pose any threat, either perceived or real, to evaluators, assistants or bystanders. 9. Animals must not whine, bark, growl, vocalize in any manner, defecate or urinate during the evaluation. 10. Dogs trained to aggressively protect and/or encouraged to actively bite, even as a component of a dog sport (e.g., bite work that is part of Schutzhund) shall not be evaluated. This is primarily a liability issue. Although many dogs that have been trained for bite-work are wonderful and under very good control, it is a risk that the Pet Partners Program can no longer take. They are concerned about the reaction of a dog should a handler be approached in a threatening manner during a visit. Even though the handler may be able to immediately bring the dog back under control, the dog has already reacted. 11. All animals must be comfortably under control by loose leash, cage or crate. Dogs must wear Pet Partners acceptable collars and leashes only. (ie: all leather or fabric, leashes no longer than 6' in length; no flexi-leashes; no slip collars of metal, leather or fabric; no training collars such as choke, "pinch", "prong," electric or spray; or muzzles. Gentle Leader type head halters, some harnesses and nylon martingales are acceptable) Collar and leash as an insurance policy rather than a crutch, handle or steering wheel! Please see acceptable EQUIPMENT requirements. It is the handlers responsibility to know what equipment is acceptable and required. 12. Animals fed a raw protein diet are not eligible. Please click HERE to see Pet Partners Raw Protein Diet Policy |
INDIVIDUAL PET PARTNERS® SKILLS & APTITUDE TEST EXERCISES (PPSAT)
It is important to carefully consider the overview of the test requirements described above before focusing on the specifics of each individual exercise. It is also important to not only understand the purpose and process of each exercise described below but also the criteria for scoring. See sample Score Sheet and possible scores below. The test is designed to evaluate the working relationship of the animal AND handler as a TEAM in terms of predictability and the ability to inspire confidence in ALL circumstances while at the same time interacting with others in any situation rather than the simple ability to perform specific exercises. Candidates are encouraged not to "train to the test" but rather on developing a solid working/trusting relationship they have with thier pet while socializing in a variety of situations and locations and on their ability to interact with their animal at the same time they are interacting with others in potentially emotionally charged situations - predicting animals responses and supporting in a PRO-active (rather than re-active manner). Animals & Handlers each receive separate scores and detailed feedback on each exercise. The lower of the 2 scores is the team score and the only one that matters. It is possible for an animal to score very well and the handler still receive a "Not Ready" score in which case the team will not pass the test.
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NOTE: There are several distinct differences between the Pet Partners & other therapy dog registry screening processes. For a detailed comparison chart between Pet Partners' test and other therapy dog registry tests (TDI & TDInc.) click HERE to view our Comparison Chart on our FAQ's page. |
 click for CGC details
How the PPST differs from the CGC.
Dogs who have passed the American Kennel Club's (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test have demonstrated a solid foundation of skills and general socialization which is an excellent start to becoming a therapy dog. However CGC Evaluators can vary greatly from the standard and there is quite a bit more to the PPSAT than what is required in the CGC. Although the Skills portion (PPST- exercises 1 through 12) of the PPSAT is based on the CGC test and is almost identical there are a few significant differences between the PPST and the CGC to be aware of - including how all exercises are scored especially with regard the the handler and the animal/handler as a TEAM..
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Pet Partners SKILLS Test (PPST)
Important Note about Video Samples - these video samples demonstrate what you and your animal will be asked to demonstrate. Performance & scoring of these samples will be discussed in the Handlers Workshop. Please do not assume presume these to be ideal samples.
Important Note about Video Samples - these video samples demonstrate what you and your animal will be asked to demonstrate. Performance & scoring of these samples will be discussed in the Handlers Workshop. Please do not assume presume these to be ideal samples.
Exercise 1 - Review Handler Questionnaire
Purpose: This exercise helps the evaluator and team become more familiar with each other.
Procedure: Information exchanged about the team during this exercise, including the handlers awareness of their own animals stress or calming signals and what to do about them, may alert the evaluator to circumstances that may affect the evaluation. While the evaluator reviews the questionnaire, team should walk around and become familiar with the testing area. |
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Exercise 2 - Accepting a Friendly Stranger
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the team can greet strangers appropriately - as a TEAM.
Procedure: The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The animal should allow the evaluator to approach; the handler should be relaxed and friendly. The animal may change position, but must remain next to the handler and neither approach nor shy away from the evaluator. |
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Exercise 3 - Accepting Petting
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the team has suitable social skills and control for visits.
Procedure: The evaluator will ask to pet your animal. The evaluator pets the animal and then circles the animal and handler. The animal may change position, but must remain next to the handler and neither approach nor shy away from the evaluator. |
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Exercise 4 - Appearance and Grooming
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the team's appearance (both animal AND handler) is clean and appropriate for visits and that the animal welcomes being groomed and examined, even by a stranger. It also demonstrates the handler's care, concern, and responsibility.
Procedure: The evaluator will first ask handler for pets brush (appropriate soft brush (no metal pins) must be supplied by handler) then lightly brush your animal and examine its feet and ears. The evaluator inspects the animal, then combs or brushes the animal and lightly examines the ears and each front foot. Un-groomed animals (including nails, ears, teeth and coat) or those with odor will be not be evaluated and scored as "Not Ready". |
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Exercise 5 - Out For a Walk (Walking on a Loose Leash)
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the handler is in control of the animal and the animal is comfortable moving with the handler in a relaxed manner.
Procedure: The handler and animal walk a short course. Dogs should walk on a loose leash; other animals are carried as they would be when visiting. All animals must be wearing an acceptable collar or harness and be on leash. The animal should walk on a loose leash or be carried without any: Pulling, Jumping, Jerking, Struggling, Barking or crying, Excessive Sniffing, Refusing to walk past medical equipment. Dogs are not required to be in a formal heel position but must be within arms length of the handler, on a LOOSE leash, and pay attention and willingly respond to handler's movements, verbal/visual cues (NOT physical leash control or corrections) to the handler at all times. (occasional tight lead is acceptable). |
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Exercise 6 - Walking Through a Crowd
Purpose: This exercise helps simulates a crowded corridor and demonstrates that the team can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and under control in public places.
Procedure: The handler and animal walk through a "crowd" of at least three people, passing close by them. The Animal may show some interest in the strangers, but not appear over-exuberant, shy, frightened, or resentful. Dogs walk (unless small) and other animals are carried. The handler should be aware of the animal's behavior and support the animal in a friendly tone. |
Caution - Tight Leash!
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Exercise 7 - Reaction to Distractions
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal remains calm and confident when faced with common distractions.
Procedure: While walking back to the beginning location from the previous Exercise, the team will be exposed to one visual and one auditory distraction from a distance of no closer than 10 feet. The distractions may include a person who is running, rolling in a wheelchair, dropping a crutch, pushing a metal cart, or dropping noisy items. The animal may express a natural interest and curiosity and may appear slightly startled, but should not: Panic, Struggle or try to run away, Vocalize, Show aggressiveness or Eliminate. The handler should be aware of the animal's needs and give praise or encouragement as needed. |
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Exercise 8-10 - Sit, Down, and Stay on Command 
Purpose: For dogs, this exercise demonstrates that a dog will sit, lie down, and stay on the handler's cue. For small dogs and other animals, these exercises demonstrate that the animal will accept being passed from one person to another and will remain where placed.
Procedure: For dogs (except small dogs that will be carried): There are three elements to this exercise. First, the handler cues the dog to sit, then waits for the evaluator's signal to release the dog (after no more than three seconds). Next, the handler cues the dog to lay down, then waits for the evaluator's signal to release the dog (after no more than three seconds). Finally, the handler replaces the dog's leash with a 10-foot light line and places the dog in a sit, down, or stand (handler's choice), then cues the dog to stay. The handler will walk to the end of the line, at all times holding onto the line, pause for two to three seconds, and return to the dog. The handler may not force the animal into position, use a loud voice, or jerk on the leash. The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command (as many as 3) in a friendly tone. Handler must demonstrate comfort with changing & organizing equipment. For small animals (including small dogs that will be carried on visits): Passed between strangers - The animal will be passed to three strangers. The handler can talk to and pet the animal during this portion of the exercise. This exercise is in place of Sit & Down for small animals. Stay in Place - The animal is placed in a stranger's lap or on a table for 30 seconds. The animal must stay where placed. Standing next to the animal, the handler continues to hold the animal's lead and may reassure the animal, but not pet it. During the 30-second wait, the evaluator or an assistant pets the animal.
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For Equines: Stay only - Handler steps 3 feet to side for 30 seconds. Handler may verbally reassure but not pet or touch animal. |
Exercise 11 - Come When Called (for dogs only)
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the dog (including very small dogs) will come to the handler and allow the handler to attach a leash, even while being pleasantly distracted and that the handler can comfortably handle equipment changes and dog at the same time.
Procedure: The handler will attach a 10-foot light line to the dog. The handler will cue the dog to stay and walk to the end of the line. The evaluator will attempt to distract the dog by petting it. When signaled by the evaluator, the handler will call the dog. The handler may pat the floor and use verbal encouragement, but no food or toys, to bring the dog close enough. When the dog reaches the handler, they must reattach the dog's leash and remove the 10-foot line, without letting go of the dog. Handler must demonstrate comfort with changing & organizing equipment. Very small dogs that have been carried during other parts of the evaluation must complete this floor exercise on the floor. |
SKIP for Cats, Birds, Pocket Pets & Equines
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Exercise 12 - Reaction to a Neutral Dog
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the handler is aware of the animal's potential response to a dog, and can help the animal succeed while still being polite and friendly to a stranger.
Procedure: Two handlers and their animals approach each other from a distance of about 10 yards, stop, shake hands, and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about five yards. As in all exercises, the handler must be aware of the animal's potential response to a dog, PRO-actively (rather than RE-actively or IN-actively) help the animal succeed, and at the same time be polite and friendly to a stranger. If the test is done with two dogs, they should show no more than a casual interest in each other. A dog that crosses the vertical mid-line of the handler, either in front or behind, to try and reach the neutral dog will be scored a "Not Ready". (Small dogs may be carried for this exercise.) Cats and other animals can be held by the handler or placed in a carrier and walked past a dog. The animal should not: Growl or bite, Stare, Bark or cry, Chase, Raise its hackles, Attack, Attempt to jump on a person or an animal, OR Cross the midline to greet the neutral dog or person. |
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Pet Partners APTITUDE Test (PPAT)
Exercise A - Overall Exam
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will accept and is comfortable being examined by a strangers. It also shows that the handler knows how to present the animal on a visit and how to help the animal welcome being touched all over.
Procedure: The evaluator will look in the animal's ears, hold its tail, put fingers in its mouth, and handle its feet. |
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Exercise B - Exuberant and Clumsy Petting
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will maintain self-control and will tolerate clumsy petting by people with different physical abilities or who do not know how to handle an animal properly. It also shows that the handler knows how to work with and support the animal to help it accept such attention.
Procedure: The evaluator will use elbows and clenched hands to pet the animal, making sure not to pet too hard or to injure it in any way. The evaluator will also speak vowel sounds in a monotone (simulating speech difficulty) and high pitched speech. If the team is enjoying the interactions and handling them well, the evaluator will extend the exercise a few moments and increase the level of exuberance to that of an excited child or adult. |
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Exercise C - Restraining Hug
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will accept or welcome restraint and that the handler can assist the animal to accept or welcome such a situation
Procedure: The evaluator will give the animal a full body hug (or around neck for equines) that restricts its movement. If the animal is a bird or other small animal, the evaluator will not hug the animal but will restrain its movement with both hands. |
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Exercise D - Staggering/Gesturing Individual
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will exhibit confidence when a person acting in an unusual manner approaches. It also shows that the handler has the social skills to interact with a stranger while attending to the animal.
Procedure: A person with an unsteady gait and wearing a shawl, or someone using an assistive device such as a walker, will approach the animal, gesturing wildly, and/or wailing. The person will stop staggering, then call the animal to approach or will otherwise attract the animal's attention. If the animal appears comfortable, the person will pet the animal. |
Caution - Tight Leash!
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Exercise E - Angry Yelling
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will not be upset when someone exhibits strong emotions and that the handler can help the animal tolerate such a situation.
Procedure: Two people will begin to shout angrily at each other and wave their arms. The "Angry Yelling" will not be directed at the handler or the animal; it will take place approximately 6 feet to one side of them. The animal may startle but should recover. The duo will stop yelling and begin to act "neutral". One of the people will then call the animal to see if it will approach. |
Caution - Tight Leash!
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Exercise F - Bumped from Behind
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal is able to recover when a person bumps into it. It also shows that the handler can both tolerate the animal being bumped and assist the animal to recover from the surprise.
Procedure: The evaluator may use their leg or ankle to bump the dog. For animals that are being carried, the evaluator bumps the handler lightly on the opposite side of where the animal is carried. Equines will be bumped on the shoulder, not the hind end. |
Caution - Tight Leash!
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Exercise G - Crowded and Petted by Several People
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will tolerate crowding and petting by several people at once. The handler must have the social skills to interact with the group while attending to the animal and looking out for its well-being.
Procedure: At least three people, arriving one at time, will gather closely around the animal and begin to touch it. One stooping down on the animals level, another looming over the animal from above. One of them will be using healthcare equipment. If the team seems to be enjoying the interaction, the evaluator may increase the intensity of the interaction to help aid in proper placement of the team (e.g. Predictable vs. Complex). |
Caution - Tight Leash!
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Exercise H - Leave It
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates that the animal will ignore a toy when cued to do so. It also demonstrates that the handler is aware of the animal's position and behavior, and is able to prevent the animal from mouthing or picking up the toy. Some sniffing of the toy is acceptable but the animal should continue walking with handler without pulling or jerking toward the toy.
Procedure: The team is directed to walk 10-feet forward past the toy and then walk on another 10 feet and stop. The team must walk past the toy, which is positioned so that the animal is on the same side as the toy. |
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Very small dogs must walk on the floor during the Leave It exercise, even if they are carried during other parts of the test. Cats should be handled as they will be on a visit, either carried in arms or a basket or walking on a leash on the floor, as the handler chooses. If the cat is carried, the evaluator or assistant will approach the team with a toy as the team walks by to determine the cat's reaction.
Exercise I - Offered a Treat
Purpose: This exercise demonstrates the animal will take a treat politely. The handler may provide the treats to be offered to their own animal, and may take steps to calm the animal if the animal becomes over stimulated. The handler may choose not to have the animal take the treat and the team will not be scored lower for refusing a treat. If the animal takes the treat, it must do so gently.
Procedure: The evaluator will ask the handler if they can give the animal a treat. They will then give the treat to the animal, assuming the handler says yes. |
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Exercise J - Overall Handler Assessment
Purpose: The evaluator scores the overall skills & aptitude of the handler during the test as a whole.
Procedure: The evaluator will score the test, noting whether the handler is proactive, reactive, or inactive in the handling and management of the animal. In addition, the evaluator notes whether the handler has developed the level of trust and understanding needed to work smoothly with their animal in unpredictable environments. During the PPAT, the handler and animal should interact with the evaluator and assistants as though they are people being visited at a facility. The handler should be able to work with the animal - using only verbal/visual cues on a LOOSE leash - while at the same time interacting socially with the "client" (evaluator and assistants) as if on a visit.
Procedure: The evaluator will score the test, noting whether the handler is proactive, reactive, or inactive in the handling and management of the animal. In addition, the evaluator notes whether the handler has developed the level of trust and understanding needed to work smoothly with their animal in unpredictable environments. During the PPAT, the handler and animal should interact with the evaluator and assistants as though they are people being visited at a facility. The handler should be able to work with the animal - using only verbal/visual cues on a LOOSE leash - while at the same time interacting socially with the "client" (evaluator and assistants) as if on a visit.
Overall Test Results depending how the team scores in various individual exercises the overall test score may be: Predictable, This indicates that the team has passed the test, but should refrain from visiting complex environments as determined by the facility matrix, or; Complex which indicates that the team has passed the test, and is ready for visiting all levels of complexity as determined by the facility matrix. There may also be special requirements noted such as one on one visits only, animal must wear harness (or other equipment used to test in) etc.
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SAMPLE PPAT & PPST SCORE SHEET
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POSSIBLE SCORES FOR ANIMALS AND HANDLERS ARE:
* It's helpful to note items listed in each possible score for each exercise on the score sheet. |
Below documents are equally important for 1st time candidates AND veteran Pet Partners!
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Important Pet Partner® Team Evaluation/Renewal Tips
Including Elements Frequently Scored "Not Ready" Click on "print" or "Fullscreen" to view more easily |
Important Handler Requirements
Click on "print" or "Fullscreen" to view more easily
* IMPORTANT EVALUATION CHECKLIST
Handlers are responsible for knowing all requirements as detailed in the Pet Partners Handlers training. TEAMS WILL NOT BE TESTED IF: 1. Handler does not bring ALL required equipment, Rabies Certificate and Handler Questionnaire. 2. Animal is not properly groomed including nails, ears & eyes. 3. Handler is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. SEE EVALUATION CHECKLIST BELOW 
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Many thanks to the Licking County Aging Program for donating this wonderful space!
Directions: From Newark - take Rt. #16 East to O'Bannon Ave exit, turn Right on O'Bannon Ave. to East Main St., turn Left on East Main St., LCAP is in a large natural brown building in a shopping center on the left at 1059 East Main St., Newark, OH - Look for the LCAP logo included in the shopping center signs from the street.
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Heritage Hall, 1058 E. Main St., Newark, OH
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