Linda Collins - Senior Service Dog Instructor

My name is Linda Collins,

I'm the senior autism service dog instructor here at my canine companion. I have been working with service dogs for the past 15 years. I started working with My Canine Companion in 2013 as an apprentice service dog instructor. My job involves training service dogs to an advanced level and onto the final stages to becoming a qualified autism service dog. My job is to assess and teach the dogs to reach a high standard of training This includes kerb work, directional changes, attachment training, buggy training and a high level of tolerance and obedience, while also ensuring the dog is confident and maintaining good social behaviour in different environments.

My job also consists of working closely with families to ensure all needs are met, whether it's matching a new client to an adult dog to suit their needs or working with a family from our puppy programme. Once this is completed a parent/ guardian will come down to our premises in Cork for training with their dog. This includes training each individual in dog handling skills and ensure they are confident with their dog in all environments. Once this is complete I then travel to the family’s homes for after care and attachment training. This is where I work with the child and dog together in their own environment. This will include follow up visits throughout the dog's life.

I always loved working with dogs but working with children and their families and seeing first-hand what difference these dogs make is hugely rewarding.

It's very rewarding to be part of team that has the opportunity to improve quality of life for people.