Play is important for all dogs and has an important role in service dog care and training too. Play is an opportunity for physical and mental exercise, can reduce stress, and support the relationship …
Attention Training Tips
The importance of attention As a public school teacher, my students would often comment that I had eyes in the back of my head because I always knew what they were up to. Having eyes in the back of …
Preventing Burn Out in Working Service Dogs
Service dogs often work long hours in complex environments. The demands of this work can be stressful for the dog. Prolonged stress can trigger dogs to develop behavioral or possibly health problems. …
Continue Reading about Preventing Burn Out in Working Service Dogs →
Empathy and Disability
One of my favorite Star Trek characters was Deanna Troi. She had a special ability as an empath. She could literally feel what another person or rather alien life form was feeling. Deanna's ability to …
Service Dog Puppy Raising Myths
Getting started with a new puppy is always exciting and it’s even more exciting when the owner’s goals are to train the puppy for service work. However, sometimes, owner-trainers have misconceptions …
Sneaky Cues and Service Dogs
I entered the Rally ring feeling completely nervous. The judge looked at me and said, "whenever you are ready." I responded while looking at Sulu, "I'm ready!" Sulu looked up at me with his beautiful …