PPST Procedures

1. Review the Handler's Questionnaire

This exercise allows the evaluator to ask questions about the team that may alert the evaluator to circumstances that may affect the evaluation. The team is also allowed to familiarize itself with the testing area.

2. Accepting a Friendly Stranger

This exercise demonstrates that the team can greet strangers appropriately.

3. Accepting Petting

This exercise demonstrates that the team has suitable social skills and control for visits.

4. Appearance and Grooming

This exercise demonstrates that the team's appearance is suitable for visits, the animal welcomes being groomed and examined and permits a stranger to do so, and the handler's care, concern, and responsibility.

 

5. Out For a Walk

This exercise demonstrates that the handler is in control of the animal and the animal is comfortable moving with the handler.

6. Walking Through a Crowd

This exercise simulates a crowded corridor and demonstrates that the team can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and under control in public places.

7. Reaction to Distractions

This exercise demonstrates that the animal remains confident when faced with common distracting situations.

8 - 10 . Sit on Command, Down on Command, and Stay in Place

(Dogs) These exercises demonstrate that the dog has training and will sit, lie down, and stay at the handler's command.

(Other Animals) These exercises demonstrate that animals other than dogs will accept being passed from one person to another and remain where placed.

11. Come When Called

(Dogs only) This exercise is for dogs only. This test demonstrates that the dog will leave pleasant distractions to come to the handler and allow the handler to attach a leash. (Very small dogs that have been carried during other parts of the evaluation must complete this exercise on the floor.)

12. Reaction to a Neutral Dog

This exercise demonstrates the animal can behave politely around an approaching dog, the handler is aware of the animal's potential response to a dog, can help the animal succeed, and the handler can be polite and friendly to a stranger.