Thanks to a generous grant provided by the Erie Elks Lodge 67, K-9 Coaches was a huge success in 2011 and will continue through the summer of 2013. 

K-9 Coaches brings the sport of agility to the treatment of autism.  This innovative program is an enjoyable, tier-structured 6-week program aimed to improve independence through self-confidence as well as: mobility through physical interaction; communication through verbal and non-verbal instruction to the partner canine; promotion of self-interaction while increasing social behaviors/decreasing stereotypical behaviors.

Class participants work in stations to reinforce traditional canine obedience, simple canine agility and basic canine rally. 

Class size is limited and reserved for children and young adults, ages 4 to 21 with autism (ASD) or Asperger syndrome.  If you feel your chilld can benefit from this program but is not diagnosed with autism, please contact us for a special permission request.  Requests will be honored based on availability.  All canine partners are certified therapy dogs registered with Therapy Dogs United, Inc.

Registration for our Spring 2012 class begins February 20, 2012 and closes on March 10, 2012.

The class schedule is as follows:
Saturday, March 24       New Student Orientation/Therapy Dog Meet & Greet - Week One
Saturday, March 31       Week Two
Saturday, April 7            No Class due to Easter Holiday
Saturday, April 14          Week Three
Saturday, April 21          Week Four
Saturday, April 28          Week Five
Saturday, May 5             Week Six - K9 Coaches Gradutation Ceremony
 
 

There is no fee for your child to participate.  To reserve your place or to find out more - please call (814) 456-3647 or Email us.   Classes are held at the Sarah Reed Partial Hospilization Facility, 1020 East 10th Street in Erie.  K-9 Coaches is taught by Julie Iddings,  ABCT (Animal Behavior College/Dog Trainer). 

To download our 2012 Program flyer, click here

See Photos of our Summer 2011 Graduating Class: