Our Acclimation Process
We want everyone – four and two-legged partners alike – involved with The Calais Method to feel as comfortable and supported as possible. That’s why our experienced educators and certified dog trainers have developed a carefully crafted acclimation process that benefits your students and staff as well as our therapy teams.
We build time into our process to identify any students with a fear of dogs and to empower your students to feel relaxed and enjoy their time with our therapy teams. It also helps our handlers get to know your school, and prepares our dogs to show up ready to work with your students and give them their full attention.
Here is how it works . . .
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Step 1: Scheduling
We’ll identify opportunities for our therapy teams to visit your school before working with any students.
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Step 2: Mapping
Our handlers will leave their dogs at home and learn the layout of your school.
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Step 3: Dog Acclimation
Our therapy teams will visit specific spots in your school to learn about the space.
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Step 4: Student & Staff Acclimation
Our therapy teams will visit when students and staff are present, with limited interaction.
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Step 5: Assessments & Referrals
We will ensure comfort and safety by teaching practices and facilitating students/therapy team interactions. Teachers and staff can refer students to the program.
