Main Line Deputy Dog

Main Line Deputy Dog trains service dogs for individuals with physical or psychiatric disabilities. The program requires a commitment of at least one to two years. Students train their own dogs with the guidance of expert dog behaviorists and volunteers, following a step-by-step program that includes lectures and homework. The training involves both in-home practice and public outings to places like Target and Home Depot. The program aims to build a strong partnership between the human and canine through gentle, positive, incentive, and reward-based methods.

Pricing Summary

Donation amounts are listed: $5,000 to sponsor a Deputy Dog from start to finish, $2,500 for a full year of training classes, $1,000 for a semester of classes, $500 for a custom service dog harness and brace, $250 for training manuals and videos, $100 for a working dog harness, $50 for service dog patches and IDs, and $25 for a Gentle Leader/EZ Walk harness.

Policies

Applicants must agree to follow through with all aspects of the application process, complete team training, and abide by all program follow-up guidelines. Successfully completing Main Line Deputy Dog’s service dog training program does not qualify graduates as service/assistance dog trainers or for placing service/assistance dogs, as Assistance Dogs International has specific certification standards not met by this program.

Main Line Deputy Dog is a 501(c)(3) Pennsylvania non-profit corporation dedicated to training service dogs for individuals facing physical or psychiatric disabilities. They assist people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress, and those recovering from car accidents or strokes, as well as individuals with panic disorder, anxiety, and agoraphobia.

The organization employs gentle, positive, incentive, and reward-based training methods, believing this approach fosters a stronger partnership between the human and canine. Their mission is to enhance the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities, while also providing fulfilling lives for rescue dogs.

Main Line Deputy Dog facilitates the training of service dogs by pairing students with rescue dogs from local shelters, which are carefully tested for suitability. They also evaluate applicants’ existing dogs for service work, noting that a dog cannot serve as both a family pet and a working dog. The program is a step-by-step process where students train their own dogs under the guidance of expert dog behaviorists and dedicated volunteers, incorporating both in-home practice and real-world outings in public places.

Accomplishments

Mark Stieber, the Founder and Executive Director, holds a master’s degree in Political Science and a B.S. in Business Administration from Villanova University, and a certificate in Non-Profit Management from La Salle University. He previously served as Vice President of Marketing at QVC, Inc.

Mary Remer is a nationally renowned Certified Pet Dog Trainer, breeder, and a licensed American Kennel Club judge. Her company, What A Good Dog, has trained over 30,000 dogs. She is recognized for training the first Bull Terrier certified for search and rescue missions, which assisted workers in New York City following 9/11/2001.

How to Get Started!

Prospective students are required to fill out an application. The engagement process includes observing a class, followed by an in-home interview. If an applicant already owns a dog, their dog and the human-canine relationship will be evaluated during additional interviews. The program’s initial focus is on matching applicants with an appropriate dog for service work.