Medical Assist Dogs
Service Dogs Medical Alert Dogs
Public Access Test
There is a lot of Misinformation regarding service dogs and public access tests.
Many teams pass service dog tests and believe they are well trained for what lies ahead. Too many dogs are washing out after 2 – 3 years. This information is designed to help handlers make wise decisions about finding a trainer, trusting their PAT tester and increasing your confidence when going into public.
While the public access test does not ‘certify’ the dog as a service dog, or is required by law, our experience shows that it does make life easier for handlers and their dogs.
The skill test is done before the PAT test. Most people feel that this is the pat test. Trainers make the same mistake. While both tests put the dog through the same exercises, the PAT test is a temperament test done after the skill test is passed.
The Skill test usually takes 1 – 2 days, and may last up to 6 hours. It is held in 2 – 3 public places.
Dogs may take the skill test at any time after their first birthday.
The public access test (PAT) doesn’t focus on whether the dog prefers to heel on the right, or left. Whether it Tucks under your chair, or behind. It is testing whether the dog is indifferent, compliant, to the environment.
Most organizations are with the handler for 10 days 50-80 hours before ‘passing’ the team. The objective is to see how the dog handles stress.
Dogs must be 18 months old before taking the PAT test. They must be mentally mature.
In the skill test the dog trainer is looking for obedience, compliance, focus, and that the dog is well trained. There is no confusion, need for prompting or luring, and the dog complies on the first verbal or physical cue.
Different trainers can expect different levels of skill and compliance.
The CGN is not enough to be a Skill test. If you do not have a trainer then we accept a Rallyfree, CARO, CKC, or UKC 2nd level Rally Title, Trick Dog Advanced title.
The public access test takes place over several days. We test in theaters, public events, restaurants, factories, and at dog shows.
We are looking for a dog that can shut down and relax. A dog that doesn’t watch it’s surroundings. A compliant dog is a must, but we are looking for the dog that can solve it’s own problems and doesn’t need to be micromanaged. We also want to se a dog that can work without verbal or physical cue.
Why Take a PAT Test?
Certification is not needed, so why take a PAT test? The answer is simple, because it will make your life easier. You will have the score, and our letter of completion to show when people ask questions.
You also have proof that your dog passed both the skill and behavior test. This can come in handy when in a confrontational situation.
