On these trips, new apprentices are again paired with licensed instructors to learn the various responsibilities and duties of the follow-up program. Once apprentices gain sufficient expertise, they may make follow-up trips on their own or conduct initial interviews in the homes of people who have applied for training with a Guide Dog. These trips occur semi-annually and last for up to two weeks. Upon their return to campus, apprentices then write reports detailing each follow-up visit or interview, noting any observations and outlining any assistance that was given. Although computer literacy is not a prerequisite, typing ability and familiarity with computers is helpful.
Apprentices perform most of the functions done by licensed instructors.
And, as mentioned, more responsibilities are added as the apprenticeship progresses. Apprentices become familiar with all aspects of kennel maintenance and dog care, the techniques necessary to train dogs to guide people who are blind, and learn about the causes of blindness, various types of blindness, and the work of agencies that deal with the blind. Toward the end of their three years of study, apprentices are given full responsibility for ensuring that a complete string of dogs is trained and ready for class, as well as the responsiblity of running a full class of up to 16 students. By that point, they also monitor the progress of intermediate-level apprentices. The final steps of an apprenticeship are to pass oral, written, and practical tests conducted by the California State Guide Dog Board to become qualified as a licensed guide dog instructor.