Program Overview

Program Overview

The Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) Program is designed for individuals interested in understanding proper canine exercise form, technique, behavior, and program design for optimum performance and injury prevention using science-based, force-free training methods and canine-specific conditioning equipment.

Program Description

The CCFT program provides learners with the essential qualifications and tools to become an effective university-credentialed Canine Fitness Trainer. Learners will be taught through a blended learning environment that includes online coursework and live labs to minimize time in the classroom and maximize time with their hands-on dogs.

Program Objectives

• Understand proper canine exercise form, technique, behavior, and program design
• Learn science-based, force-free training methods and canine-specific conditioning equipment
• Advance understanding and skills with hands-on labs focused on conducting canine fitness assessments, understanding injury prevention and care, program design and implementation

Program Structure

• Blended learning including hands-on labs and final exams
• The program consists of 4 modules to be completed in order:
  • CCFT I: Online Lecture Series (25 hours)
  • CCFT II: Live Lab Series (3-day hands-on Live Lab)
  • CCFT III: Case Studies
  • CCFT IV: Online Exam

Meet Your Instructors

Dawn H. Rector

Dawn H. Rector, LVMT, VTS (Physical Rehab), CCRP, CVPP, CCFT, is a graduate of Columbia State Community College with an AAS in Veterinary Technology. She has completed various certificate programs, including the University of Tennessee’s Companion Animal Pain Management Certificate Program and the Osteoarthritis Case Manager Certificate Program.

Dr. Darryl Millis

Dr. Millis received his BS and DVM from Cornell University, MS from the University of Florida, and completed an internship and surgery residency at Michigan State University. He is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and a founding charter Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation.

Dr. David Levine

Dr. Levine received a Bachelors of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of New England, a Masters in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from Boston University, and a doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Tennessee. He is a professor and the Walter M. Cline Chair of Excellence in Physical Therapy at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga.

Program Recognition

The University of Tennessee Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) Program is the only program for Canine Fitness to win the distinguished Outstanding Non-Credit Program Award by the Association for Continuing Higher Education.