Responsible Advocacy for Dogs
The responsible advocacy for dogs (RAD) evaluation serves as a testament to a handler’s dedication to advocating for their dogs' mental and physical well-being.
The goal of our organization is to celebrate responsible ownership of ALL dogs and their owners.
The exam will consist of twelve certification items, each of which is crucial in determining the responsible ownership of dogs. Each item will be graded on a pass-or-fail basis and at completion you will receive a ribbon and official certificate.
Utility: The dog guardian will explain the equipment they are using for their evaluation, how it is used, and the proper placement of the equipment on the dog
Heel on Leash: A designated pattern will be set demonstrating a right, left, figure eight, random sits as signaled by the evaluator, and about turn. The dog should follow its guardian with a loose leash.
Heel with muzzle: This section, which follows the exact same pattern as the 'Heel on Leash' section, is designed to demonstrate that the dog is comfortable being muzzled. It's an important aspect of responsible dog ownership.
Place duration (five minutes). You can use a cot or mat. This can be done during the Utility exercise.
Heel, stop and friendly greeting with evaluator/”stranger”. There is no contact with the friendly stranger.
Sit, down, stay (handler will stay within proximity of the dog).
Recall while on a long line of 15-20 feet. The dog maintains a down stay and recalls when asked. The dog does not need to sit but needs to be within 18 inches of the owner.
Focus/engagement: the dog will make eye contact when prompted
Food refusal. The dog will ignore food on the ground (there may be 1-3 items scattered on the floor 2 of which will be a protein) The dog can show casual interest in the food but should not grab the food.
Car manners: this exercise is to demonstrate safe car manners when exiting and entering the vehicle. The guardian is to load the dog, then remove the leash and wait one minute. The guardian then will return to open the door, the dog should wait while being leashed back up and exiting the vehicle.
Advocacy of your dog: the guardian will be put in a situation where they will need to speak up for their dog. Situations will be similar to those you would see in a real-life scenario.
Space Management. This exercise is to demonstrate the use of space to advocate for your dog's mental health. The use of toys or food is acceptable. Situations could be passing another dog or person while walking.