The Team Evaluation process is conducted by a Delta-licensed Team Evaluator and is intended to evaluate the animal/handler team, how well the handler interprets and manages the animal's behavior, and how well the animal responds to the handler. You will learn about the evaluation process in great detail at our Workshops. There are two parts to the evaluation:

1The Pet Partners Skills Test (PPST) shows whether the animal can be controlled by you and follow basic commands.

2The Pet Partners Aptitude Test (PPAT) is designed to simulate conditions that may be encountered on a visit. This screening helps determine the most appropriate environment for you and your animal. Many people compare this to a temperament test.

You must bring your completed Application Packet with you to your evaluation.

Unlike obedience competitions, you and your animal do not have to perform the exercises with precision to pass the evaluation. You are also encouraged to talk to your animal during the entire evaluation. The main emphasis is that the animal is under control.

One of the goals of the Pet Partners Program is to ensure that we can all be proud of the visiting teams because they are safe and reliable. The evaluation process gives a complete picture of each handler/animal team. This process is the safest way to identify acceptable visiting teams.

After you have passed the PPST and PPAT, the Team Evaluator will give you a signed and dated copy of your test forms and will review your Team's results with you.

At no time will your animal be put in a situation that is dangerous to the animal's welfare. The Delta-licensed Team Evaluators who conduct the PPST and PPAT are trained and learn that the well-being of animals comes first, no matter what. At no point during the evaluation will animals be hurt or intentionally frightened. The PPAT is designed to resemble an animal-assisted activities/animal-assisted therapy (AAA/AAT) visit with situations that might occur when the animal goes on a visit. If you are uncomfortable with or unsure of what is going on during the evaluation, please let the evaluator know. You are encouraged to be your animal's advocate.

The complete list of requirements for handlers, pets, equipment, etc. will be reviewed in detail during your Workshop.

Check the Upcoming Test Dates to your left. Click the event you're interested in attending for more information and for registration instructions.

Note that we often offer American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluations at the same we offer Pet Partner evaluations. If both events are listed on the same day and you're interested in both, please let the Registrar know. They will schedule both appointments for you. The cost for CGC testing is $10 plus a $5 registration fee to the American Kennel Club.

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