Frequently Asked Questions
All things OU 4 Paws
What are the different ways I can get involved in this club?
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Primary Trainer (must be certified)
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A service dog in training (SDiT) is assigned to you
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SDiT lives with you
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You are the first line of communication with 4 Paws regarding the dog's progress in training
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Responsible for everything regarding SDiT
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Secondary Trainer (must be certified)
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“Babysitter” for SDiT
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Responsible for the socialization of the dog
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Takes dog to class, into town, and other social interactions
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Not assigned to an SDiT by 4 Paws
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Club member
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Doesn’t “handle” dogs
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Attends meetings, events, and interaction with dogs
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Helps with events, fundraisers, etc.
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Spreads awareness about 4 Paws
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What is the training process for volunteer trainers?
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Training for primary trainers and secondary trainers is the same
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Complete these steps in order
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Online application
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Online or in-person orientation (we recommend online)
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Complete canvas courses
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Complete in in-person introduction session
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How do I join the club?
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$10 per semester
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Join on Bobcat Connect
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Come to a meeting!
What does the club do on campus?
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We host events, fundraisers, and meetings frequently throughout the year
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Some of these events include Pictures with Pups, Columbus Zoo trip, Crafting with Canines, Sit Stay Study, etc.
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During our meetings, we have mini-events that anyone is welcome at! Bring your friends!
How much does it cost to have an SDiT?
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4 Paws provides the dog, the vet care, the kennel, the gear, the food, the monthly meds, and the starter toys
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You have to provide transportation for the dog to 4 Paws, the fun extras like toys, bandanas, treats, etc.
What happens to the dog once they are fully trained and how long does that process take?
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The training process varies for every dog. Typically it will take around a year to a year and a half to complete the training process but 4 Paws can “flunk” the dog at any point
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If the dog passes their Advances Training Evaluation, they will return to 4 Paws to further their training and get matched to their forever person
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If the dog doesn’t pass their training they become a “fabulous flunky” and hang up their vest to live the pet life
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If the dog is deemed fit for becoming a breeder, they hang up their vest but continue to create future service dogs in training!
I live in the dorms…Can I have an SDiT?
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Not yet. We are working on that process but it will take a while.
I don’t have a car, can I still be in the club?
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You must have a car to be a primary trainer
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You do not need a car to be a secondary trainer or a club member
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We carpool quite a bit to Xenia and other events that require transportation
Can I pet your dog?
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Short answer, always ask!
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If a dog seems to be actively tasking or trying to use the bathroom do not approach the handler or the dog
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Do not feed the dog ANYTHING
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If the handler says yes, wait until the dog is sitting and waiting for you to pet them