Canine Handler Academy

The education mission of the Penn Vet Working Dog Center includes a focus on our next generation. We believe it is a mutually beneficial endeavor to expose today’s youth to the amazing talents of various workings dogs and to help build a sense of community. Our goal is to educate and inspire the next generation of veterinarians, working dog handlers, and canine enthusiasts.

This summer we offer four opportunities for incoming 7th, 8th and 9th graders including two beginner sessions and two advanced sessions. Counselor opportunities for high school students are also available.

Students will gain hands-on training experience, learn from guest presentations, and enjoy various working dog demonstrations.

Counselor & Counselor-In-Training

• The learning never stops! Our students do not "age out", but rather have the opportunity to become counselors. If your student has been with us before, they are eligible to apply as a Counselors-In-Training or a Counselor.

• Must apply and receive acceptance prior to registering.

• Qualifications for Counselor-In-Training (CIT)
  Completed at least 1 beginner session
  Completed at least 1 advanced session
  *Incoming 9th graders may only be CITs for beginner sessions
  *Incoming 10th graders+ may be CITs for advanced sessions
  
  
• Qualifications for Counselor
  Completed at least one Counselor-In-Training week
  Incoming 10th grader or older

Scholarships

• Must qualify for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).

• For Campers and Counselors-In-Training only.

• Provide a statement from the student describing their interest in attending Canine Handler Academy.

• Apply for CHA scholarship...

How to Register

We have partnered with Capable Canine to manage and promote our classes. Visit https://capable-canine.com/classes/cha to register now! 

Questions, email caninehandleracademy@gmail.com.