Can Do Canines is partnering with University of Minnesota Extension to provide the 4-H Pups and Learning (PAL) Program.
The 4-H PAL Program gives youth, 15 years of age or older, an opportunity to gain hands-on experience training a service dog while learning about accessibility and developing responsibility and commitment.
Youth and their families accepted into this program will receive a dog in training to work with for approximately four months. During this time, they will help continue the dog's training before the dog returns to Can Do Canines for final training and placement with its new handler.
No previous dog training experience is necessary.
All training for the youth and dogs will be provided by Can Do Canines. Training related to accessibility awareness will be provided by Extension 4-H staff or volunteers.
Watch this video to see the program in action.
Program information
Complete our interest form to be contacted about upcoming opportunities or to have your questions answered.
Youth participant requirements
- You must be 15 years of age or older and enrolled in the Minnesota 4-H.
- You are expected to participate with the dog in once-a-month in-person training sessions at the Can Do Canines facility in New Hope.
- As the dog's handler, you are expected to participate in once-a-month virtual training sessions.
Family and placement requirements
Before a dog is placed with a youth participant, families will:
- Be screened by Can Do Canines following their protocol.
- Be screened by the Minnesota 4-H program.
- Review the overall expectations and requirements to host a dog for this specialized training.
- Participate in the Can Do Canines in-person orientation program and home evaluation.
Youth participant expectations
- Help provide a positive experience for the dog.
- Attend the required monthly training with Can Do Canines.
- Participate in the scheduled connection and learning opportunities provided by 4-H.
- Keep open communications with Extension staff and the adult county 4-H liaison, if available, and with Can Do Canine officials.
- Follow the specific training techniques provided by Can Do Canines.
While in the program
- Participate in optional outings with Can Do Canines, such as trips to malls, airports, etc. These outings can help train the dogs for specific situations and environments.
Upon completion of the program
- Exhibit your work in the program at a 4-H showcase opportunity. Contact your local 4-H office for more information.
- Participate in the placement of the dog you trained as it completes final training and is ready to begin life as a service dog with its permanent client.
Contacts
- Renee Kostick, [email protected]
- Kathryn Sharpe, [email protected]
Reviewed in 2026