Dogs for the disabled

Right now we are developing a working relationship with organizations that will assist in funding fully trained service dogs. Until that funding comes in our clients will need to rely on health insurance, disability pensions, workman’s compensation, and other avenues such as medicare/medicade, and the Veterans Administration, to fund their training.

Our training at this time will be via private lessons (see in-home training fees).  We can assist you in locating a dog, evaluating your current dog, and then the training of your current dog. Some of the simple tasks a pet dog can perform might be: 

• Hearing impaired issues; a dog alerting you to a phone or doorbell ringing, the oven or smoke alarm going off, someone knocking at your door, alarm clock going off, or that all-important baby crying. Your dog can advise you when someone has come close to you.
• For mobility or back problems, or wheelchair assistance your dog can do the simple task of picking things up for you, saving your back the pain of bending over. This is extremely helpful if you have fused discs where bending over is next to impossible. In the case of a wheel chair we can assist you in teaching your dog to walk properly with you on a leash, and be acceptable in the public. Your dog can help you in the home by opening cabinet and refrigerator doors, pull you when needed, carry items in backpacks, or assist you in your transition from vehicle seat to wheel chair.
• Balance or Stability problems could be a constant issue or intermittent. Your dog can assist you if you need stability at any time. This of course requires a larger dog. 
• Emotional needs or Psychiatric Service Dogs 'PSD" are an important part of the lives that need the emotional grounding that our pets bring. But your dog can also warn you of breakdown episodes, or assist you in finding your vehicle in times of disorientation. In a home stress situation your dog is a constant reminder that your home is safe and there are no intruders, as your dog will alert you of any issues inside or outside your home. 
• Autism can be hard on a family, especially when it is a child that wonders. When attending events or just going shopping, you can feel safe that your child will not wonder off by having a service dog that is attached to your child. Not all children will be suited for this, but for those that are this will be a blessing for parents. No more worry that you will turn around and your child is gone. Should it occur we can train your dog to find your child. 
• Dementia as adult, even mild cases can disrupt your entire life. If you like to walk but at times get disoriented and are not sure how to get home, we can teach your dog to take you home, or back to your starting point. 
• Other area of assistance might be teaching your dog to go get help, dial 911, or hit a panic button.