As the demand for service dogs continues to increase, some trainers are finding that they have enough interested service dog owner-trainers to offer group training classes. Group classes offer several …
Working with Clients with Disabilities that Affect Speech
When we think of disabilities, we usually think of someone limited in their ability to walk or with altered cognition, or a person who has a sensory limitation. Rarely do people think of disabilities …
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Selecting Tasks for PTSD Service Dogs
I receive many questions about service dogs for people with Post Traumatic Stress. However, trainers are often surprised to learn that there is not a clear consensus on which tasks are appropriate for …
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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 …
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 …
Service Dogs and Dog Sports?
I confess, I love precision. I swoon over a tight finish, precision heeling and beautiful straight fronts. While showy precision is not necessary for service work, there are aspects of competitive …