Time Commitment
ISD members regularly train between five and 12 hours per week. To become a mission ready navigator takes between six and 12 months. Becoming a mission ready dog team takes between 18 and 24 or more months depending on the age of the dog, the experience of the handler, and the amount of time dedicated to training.
The time commitment we all put in is not only in training our own dogs, but also those of our fellow team-members. It generally takes at least three people to conduct a training – one to hide for the dog, the handler, and a skilled observer to walk along and provide assistance.
In addition to training, we all work on our fundraising events to help purchase team equipment, conduct presentations for the public, and share in the responsibility of running the team.