Ethical Use of Assistance Dogs
by Riggan Shilstone
President, Olympic Assistance Dogs
This remarkable article intimately describes LIFE WITH YOUR SERVICE or ASSISTANCE DOG. It explains in considerable detail the aptitudes and enthusiasms of different dogs and what that means for you. It explains in considerable detail the possible stresses that creep into the life of a working dog, including those of separation from "their partner in charge" and various outside environmental stressors. From selection of a puppy and the training of that dog, to the careful selection and training of the dog's eventual assistance partner.... for not all people and families who desire a dog are good prospects for the placement of an Assistance Dog. And not every trained dog is a match for every willing assistance partner/owner. Learn all about it.
There is also a lot of information of the physical challenges and fitness needs of dogs who will be expected to lend physical support or do pulling or carrying of backpacks. It talks a lot about dog psychology and what that means for their partners and the families involved.
- Teri