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Support Dog Pathway
The Serenipaws Support Dog Pathway is designed to help families explore whether a puppy or dog may be a suitable match to grow alongside a neurodivergent child or young person.
This pathway focuses on calm foundations, realistic support, child safety, dog welfare, and building the relationship step by step.
The first form below is a short initial enquiry.
Once submitted, the next steps and any further forms can be sent
afterwards so everything feels manageable.
What this pathway is
Pup 2 Professional Foundations is a calm, family-centred support dog pathway for puppies and dogs growing alongside neurodivergent children and young people.
It is designed to help families build strong foundations safely and realistically, with child safety, dog welfare, clear routines, and the relationship at the centre.
Who this pathway is for
This pathway may be suitable for families who:
- have a neurodivergent child or young person
- already have a puppy or dog, or are choosing one
- want help building calm foundations from the start
- want their child involved in a safe and supported way
- are looking for guidance, structure, and realistic next steps
Important to know
Important to know:
- not every puppy or dog will be suitable for advanced therapy or assistance work
- no ethical trainer can guarantee that a puppy will become a therapy or assistance dog
- temperament, health, confidence, development, and family consistency all matter
- dog welfare comes first
- sometimes the best outcome is a brilliant home support dog, and that is still a huge success
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What’s included
What is included:
- initial enquiry and support forms
- 1 initial 1:1 family set-up session
- 4 small group sessions with a maximum of 4 families
- 1 final review or 1:1 session
- support materials, handouts, and guidance between sessions
- realistic next-step recommendations
About Leah
Hi, I’m Leah, founder of Serenipaws Scotland and Callander K9
I’m a dog trainer, trauma-informed coach, and the creator of safe, supportive spaces where dogs and people can learn, connect, and heal together.
I was late diagnosed with ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia, so I understand both professionally and personally how important it is to create support that is calm, realistic, and neurodivergent-friendly.
Alongside my practical dog training work, I am currently training in AAPT Introduction to Animal Assisted Play Therapy®, and I have also completed further study around working with
neurodivergent children and their dogs.
My work combines dog training, behaviour understanding, trauma-informed practice, and a deep belief that healing, confidence, and connection can grow through the relationship between a child and a dog.
This pathway has been designed to help families build that relationship safely and step by step, without pressure, false promises, or one-size-fits-all expectations.
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