Loading page
Training Program
Autism Support Dog Program
Support and safety task training for families of children and adults on the autism spectrum.
18 weeks
In-person, family-inclusive sessions
Contact ASDI for current pricing
Program Overview
Family-centered training for autism support dog teams covering safety planning, tethering protocols, calming tasks, and elopement response. Five modules include family intake, tethered walking, deep pressure calming, elopement protocols, and team coordination — each with professional ASDI worksheets.
What Teams Will Learn
- Provide calming deep pressure on cue
- Support safe tethered walking
- Respond appropriately to elopement attempts
Course Materials & Worksheets
Professional ASDI curriculum modules with printable worksheets for session planning, field practice, and trainer review.
Official ASDI MaterialsModule 1
Module 1 — Family Intake & Safety Planning
Complete family intake, define safety goals, and assign roles for adults, child, and dog.
Lesson material
- Family intake and safety assessment
- Elopement risk mapping for home and community
- Role assignments for each family member
- Emergency contacts and backup handlers
Module 2
Module 2 — Tethering & Safe Walking
Train safe tether protocols with appropriate equipment and adult supervision standards.
Lesson material
- Tether equipment fit and breakaway considerations
- Adult supervision requirements at all times
- Walking protocols in low-distraction settings
- Releasing tether for rest and play
Module 3
Module 3 — Calming & Deep Pressure Tasks
Train cued calming tasks appropriate to the handler's sensory needs and family context.
Lesson material
- Deep pressure task with duration limits
- Calming cue during escalating sensory moments
- Dog opt-out signals and welfare monitoring
- Differentiating task time from play time
Module 4
Module 4 — Elopement Response Protocols
Train dog-assisted elopement response aligned with family safety plan — never unsupervised pursuit.
Lesson material
- Family elopement response steps
- Dog role in search or stationary alert tasks
- Coordination with school or caregiver protocols
- Debrief after any elopement event
Module 5
Module 5 — Family Coordination & Maintenance
Align school, therapy, and home routines with consistent cues and maintenance training.
Lesson material
- Cue consistency across caregivers
- School/caregiver briefing materials
- Weekly maintenance schedule
- Quarterly trainer family review
Worksheets are branded ASDI training documents for Autism Support Dog Program. Bring completed worksheets to your ASDI-affiliated trainer or workshop facilitator.