Canines Can Change - a border collie training program

The Canines Can Change Educational Program is a non-profit organization, which rescues unwanted or abused dogs of all breeds, and then integrates them into facilities such as exceptional classrooms in schools and Learning Centers where each dog and handler receives a six-week training course. In this program, handlers are assigned a dog, which is most compatible with their personality. Due to the variance in each of the dogs we use, we strive to match the dogs’ and participants’ personalities to the best of our abilities to insure success.

Participants then attend this seven-week course, which will teach the handler positive training techniques to train their (assigned) dog. The steps directly relate to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. At the end of the course, each handler and dog will take the CGC test. A set of guidelines has already been established through AKC and certificates will be handed-out for those that receive passing scores. After completion of the program, the dogs, which participated in the class, will be adopted to approved families.

A volunteer will transport the dogs once a week to the facility, and the handlers will then prepare their assigned dog for the class. The classes will last about one hour, although the times may be altered in necessary. All of these services are free to the participants, but donations from the public and support from animal supply companies are always greatly appreciated. Each dog is strictly evaluated for temperament as well as provided necessary medical care before it enters the program to insure complete safety. CCC cannot accept and liabilities for accidents causing injury and a release form must be signed as well as a personality profile form. Each participant must be willing to learn and NEVER cause harm to any of the animals participating. This program allows everyone to participate, with no discrimination against color, sex , race, or disability.

Schools in participation at this time are: C. C. Griffin Middle School Self-Contained Classroom; Glenn Center W. O. R. K. S. Program; NorthWest Cabarrus Middle School Behavior and Emotionally Disabled; Hispanic Learning Center.

The Canines Can Change Program has two canine classifications. Charter Canines and Rescue Canines.