​​​On occasion, in the midst of training, the puppy takes a 2-4 month break from the I.S.T. trainers and live with the future owner and family.  Typically, the dogs will have passed all required benchmarks between the age of 18-24 months.  

When the dog is delivered to the individual, the trainer remains in the area and holds handler training which requires a commitment of 6-8 hours a day for 10-14 days.  During the handler training, the owner will continue to participate in many, if not all, of his/her typical activities (work, school, social events, etc.).  

List of Services

​​PRIVATE INSTRUCTION
I.S.T. interviews the individual interested in attaining a service dog and, if applicable, family members.  During this process, the disability is discussed.  In some cases, IST will request a physician's input to document the necessity of a service dog and the anticipated benefits.  With an assurance that all conversations will be private, except when discussing training specific tasks with the dogs' trainer(s) and the IST researchers, the disability limitations and anticipated benefits will be discussed with the individuals involved.  IST will develop a detailed training program, general service dog benchmarks and required benchmarks specific to the service dog candidate.  At this time, the individual and IST representative will schedule private and group classes.  The individual will be required to work with the dog seven days a week and be committed to follow rules and guidelines.  Although there are no guarantees with this program, IST is committed to the success of each working team.

FULLY TRAINED SERVICE DOGS

 I.S.T. raises and trains a dog for the specific duties required by the future owner.

I.S.T.

SERVICE DOGS
OBEDIENCE TRAINING
COACHING
VISITATIONS

Following the completion of the handler training course, the owner of the IST Service Dog will be required to send weekly updates to IST, LLC for a year in order to be sure no problems arise. Additionally, IST, LLC will be available throughout the life of the dog to offer support.

THERAPY

Bullet is dual trained as a Peanut Allergen Detection Service Dog and a Therapy Dog.  Bullet can be utilized ​in therapy settings or provide visitations at home, school, work or hospitals.  Individuals who have or struggle with PTSD, illness / disease, physical challenges, grief, emotional challenges, extended hospitalization, depression, lonliness, etc., report that time with Bullet decreases stress levels and exhaustion, and improves their quality of life, mood or day!