Category Archives: Texas

Agoraphobia, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Diabetes, El Paso, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Attack, PTSD, Texas

CONGRATS TO JANA AND SD ZIMBOO!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO JANA AND NOW SERVICE DOG, “ZIMBOO “!! ZIMBOO IS A LABRADOR MIX. THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT)!! Jana suffers from Agoraphobia, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Diabetes, Gastroparesis, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Attacks and PTSD.

Our El Paso Trainer Terry writes:

Jana & Zimboo performed marvelously in all aspect of their Public Access Test (PAT). She masterful handled Zimboo in a manner which displayed confidence in herself, and Zimboo as well. You can tell by their openly display of affection, that this team will be around for years to come. The Service Dog family send it’s Congratulation’s, and well wishes to Jana & Zimboo, and the entire family, for making this dream and certification a reality. Good luck and God bless in your future endeavors.

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST
Always=All the time
Mostly=Most of the time (more than half of time)
Sometimes=Some of the time (half or less of the time)
Never=Never demonstrated the skill
The team must score all ‘Always’ or’ Mostly’ ’ responses on the A-M-S-N parts of the test.
The team must score at least 80% “YES” answers on the “YES” “NO” portion of the test.
All questions marked by an asterisk (*) must be answered by a “YES” response.

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Zimboo did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Zimboo waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Zimboo waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Zimboo remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Zimboo stayed in relative heel position. Always
Zimboo was calm around traffic.* Yes
Zimboo stopped when Jana came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Zimboo waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Zimboo waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Zimboo was within the prescribed distance of Jana. Always
Zimboo ignored the public, remaining focused on Jana. Always
Zimboo readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Zimboo readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Mostly
Zimboo readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Zimboo responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Zimboo remained under control and focused on Jana.* Yes
Zimboo came within the prescribed distance of Jana.* Yes
Zimboo came directly to Jana.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Zimboo responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Zimboo remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Zimboo remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Zimboo maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Zimboo responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Zimboo remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Zimboo remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Zimboo or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Zimboo jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Zimboo should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Zimboo remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Zimboo is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Zimboo maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Jana got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Zimboo’s leash and Jana can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Zimboo.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Zimboo stayed in relative heel position. Always
Zimboo was calm around traffic.* Yes
Zimboo stopped when Jana came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Zimboo waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Zimboo readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Zimboo did well, Jana praised Zimboo. Always
Zimboo is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Jana kept Zimboo under control. Always
Jana was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

PASS TEST: Yes

Anxiety, Army, Depression, Military, PTSD, San Antonio, Texas, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR MARTHA AND SD, “RAIN”!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR (ARMY) MARTHA AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, “RAIN”!! RAIN IS AN AUSTRALIAN SHEPARD. THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT)!! Martha suffers from Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.

Our San Antonio Trainer Beverli writes:

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Rain did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Rain waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Rain waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Rain remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Rain stayed in relative heel position. Always
Rain was calm around traffic.* Yes
Rain stopped when Martha came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Rain waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Rain waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Rain was within the prescribed distance of Martha. Mostly
Rain ignored the public, remaining focused on Martha. Mostly
Rain readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Rain readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Rain readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Rain responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Rain remained under control and focused on Martha.* Yes
Rain came within the prescribed distance of Martha.* Yes
Rain came directly to Martha.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Rain responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Rain remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Rain remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Rain maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Rain responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Rain remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Rain remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Rain or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Rain jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Rain should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Rain remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Rain is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Rain maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Martha got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Rain’s leash and Martha can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Rain.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Rain stayed in relative heel position. Always
Rain was calm around traffic.* Yes
Rain stopped when Martha came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Rain waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Rain readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Rain did well, Martha praised Rain. Always
Rain is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Mostly
Martha kept Rain under control. Always
Martha was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

PASS TEST: Yes

Anxiety, Dallas-Fort Worth, Depression, Military, Navy, PTSD, Texas, Veteran, Wichita Falls, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR CHELSEA AND SD ATHENA!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR (NAVY) CHELSEA AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, “ATHENA”!! ATHENA IS A MASTIFF/ ST. BERNARD MIX. THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT)!!

Chelsea suffers from PTSD, anxiety, and hypervigilance. She also suffers from anger issues, and major depression,(recurrent, moderate).

Our Wichita Falls Trainer Barbara writes:

Chelsea and Athena stated they were ready for the PAT test. I agreed! We began in PetSmart, and walked past a busy dog training class. Athena ignored all the dogs, children and people in the class and continued with Chelsea, keeping her focus on Chelsea. Men, women, and children with and without hats were in PetSmart and Office Max, and did not affect Athena in any way. Athena always checked the rows as the team passed them, and when they stopped, Athena was looking behind or to the side of Chelsea – wonderful vigilance!

Chelsea asked a young lady to pet Athena, and she remained in the “sit” position and waited for her pat under the head. A new trainer at PetSmart (Robert) came and offered assistance, and we used him as another person to pet Athena. Athena remained in place and had one bark, to which Chelsea told her “it’s okay” and Athena relaxed, quieting down and allowing Robert to pet her. (Robert had squatted down within arm reach to Athena and he was looking away from her). This was a good thing, as Athena is usually more comfortable around women.

Athena and Chelsea did very well in Office Max, and managed to heel perfectly through the items in the isles as well as in tight areas, weaving in and out of them. Different men (employees) approached Chelsea to offer their assistance, and Athena was perfectly behaved.

At Taco Bell, a small child around 3 or 4 yrs old came up unnoticed behind Chelsea. Athena had an appropriate “grumble” alert, and Chelsea checked behind her to find the child taunting Athena. Chelsea told Athena “it’s okay – I’ve got it”, and Athena calmed down, put her head on the floor and rested. Chelsea went to pick up her order and returned to the table with Athena. Athena again went under the table, facing Chelsea so she was able to watch people coming up behind Chelsea. The child again began approaching Athena. I advised Chelsea about what was happening, and we called for the child’s father who was at the opposite end of Taco Bell. The father came and got the child and walked away.

Athena never moved and remained quiet after the initial alert on both occasions. Athena did not have any further grumbles or barks.

During the PAT, Athena gave “covers” very well when needed. Athena leans in on Chelsea’s leg and sits on Chelsea’s foot.

Location of where PAT took place: PetSmart, Office Max and Taco Bell in Denton, Texas.

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Athena did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Athena waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Athena waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Athena remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Athena stayed in relative heel position. Always
Athena was calm around traffic.* Yes
Athena stopped when Chelsea came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Athena waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Athena waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Athena was within the prescribed distance of Chelsea. Always
Athena ignored the public, remaining focused on Chelsea.
Athena readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Athena readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Athena readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Athena responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Athena remained under control and focused on Chelsea.* Yes
Athena came within the prescribed distance of Chelsea.* Yes
Athena came directly to Chelsea.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Athena responded promptly to the command to sit. Mostly
Athena remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Athena remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Athena maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Athena responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Athena remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Athena remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Athena or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Athena jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Athena should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Athena remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Athena is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Athena maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Chelsea got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Athena’s leash and Chelsea can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Athena.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Athena stayed in relative heel position. Always
Athena was calm around traffic.* Yes
Athena stopped when Chelsea came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Athena waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Athena readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Athena did well, Chelsea praised Athena. Always
Athena is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Mostly
Chelsea kept Athena under control. Always
Chelsea was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

PASS TEST: Yes

San Antonio, Seizure, Texas

CONGRATS TO ALEXUS, DAUGHTER TAVIE AND SERVICE DOG, “ANNIE”

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALEXUS AND DAUGHTER TAVIE AND TAVIE’S NOW SERVICE DOG, “ANNIE”!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT).

Director and San Antonio Trainer Laurie writes:

Annie was rescued by the Cibolo Animal Shelter, and assessed by Service Dog Express. Client Alexus and her husband were looking for a seizure alert dog for their at the time 6 month old daughter, “Tavie”, who was born with a chromosomal abnormality that predisposed her to seizures. There was an absolutely instant bond between Annie and Tavie – if you saw how Annie gravitated toward Tavie and vice-versa, you would have cried. Since then, the family and I have been training both at home and in public. Annie is always protective of Tavie, follows her everywhere, and Tavie, who is developmentally far beyond her age, constantly goes to Annie with delight. We simply performed the Public Access Test at Bass Pro Shop, focusing on Annie’s abilities – I will continue to work on the seizure alerts as Tavie gets slowly weaned off her medication in the near future with their doctor’s approval. Tavie’s mother, Alexus, did the test with Annie, and her husband and Tavie were right next to her, with Tavie in a stroller. We even did elevator work, and the only thing that Annie barked at twice were the ferocious stuffed animals on the top floor! But we eventually guided Annie up to the different animals and desensitized her to them after she realized they weren’t real. We even put a treat in the stuffed monkey’s paw – and Tavie received it from the paw! Staff thought it was hilarious! Annie is a character!! But I am SO proud of this amazingly dedicated family who will do anything to help their daughter!

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST
Always=All the time
Mostly=Most of the time (more than half of time)
Sometimes=Some of the time (half or less of the time)
Never=Never demonstrated the skill
The team must score all ‘Always’ or’ Mostly’ ’ responses on the A-M-S-N parts of the test.
The team must score at least 80% “YES” answers on the “YES” “NO” portion of the test.
All questions marked by an asterisk (*) must be answered by a “YES” response.

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Annie did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Annie waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Annie waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Annie remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Annie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Annie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Annie stopped when Alexus/Tavie came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Annie waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Annie waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Annie was within the prescribed distance of Alexus/Tavie. Always
Annie ignored the public, remaining focused on Alexus/Tavie. Always
Annie readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Annie readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Annie readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Annie responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Annie remained under control and focused on Alexus/Tavie.* Yes
Annie came within the prescribed distance of Alexus/Tavie.* Yes
Annie came directly to Alexus/Tavie.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Annie responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Annie remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Annie remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Annie maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Annie responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Annie remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Annie remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Annie or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Annie jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Annie should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Annie remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Annie is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Annie maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Alexus/Tavie got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Annie’s leash and Alexus/Tavie can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Annie.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Annie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Annie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Annie stopped when Alexus/Tavie came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Annie waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Annie readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Annie did well, Alexus/Tavie praised Annie. Always
Annie is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Alexus/Tavie kept Annie under control. Always
Alexus/Tavie was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

PASS TEST: Yes

ADA Rights, Denied Service, Experience, San Antonio, Texas

Thanks to the San Antonio Police Department

Service Dog Express would like to send a tremendous thank you to Lt. Miles Earwood with the San Antonio Police Department. Laurie and Lt. Earwood met about a year ago when a Service Dog access question came up – and since then, he has been in constant contact with Laurie to help learn the Service Dog access laws. He and Laurie have been exchanging information these past few weeks, and Lt. Earwood is going to ensure that the SAPD Training Academy new recruits and existing officers become more aware of how to handle SD access issues. This will help our clients tremendously when there are access problems and the police are called (which we always recommend). Lt. Earwood last wrote:

“Dear Laurie:

I have already sent the information you have gathered to our Training Academy Commander and requested they generate and disseminate a training bulletin on the matter regularly.

Take care,
Lieutenant Miles Earwood #4015
Desk: 210-207-6549
Email: [email protected]
Monday – Friday; 7:45 am – 4:30 pm

SAPD’s Guiding Principles:
Integrity – Respect – Compassion – Fairness”

Agoraphobia, Air Force, Anxiety, Depression, Military, Mobility, Panic Attack, PTSD, San Antonio, Texas, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR TRACY AND SD DAISY!!

Service Dog Express's photo.

CONGRATULATIONS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR (Air Force) TRACY AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, “DAISY”!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT).

San Antonio trainer Sue tested Tracy and her Great Pyrenees, “Daisy”. Tracy suffers from agoraphobia, anxiety, depression, mobility issues, panic attacks, PTSD, and night terrors.

Tracy needs Daisy to be able to accompany her in public and to be able to go to stores where she would freeze up when walking in. Daisy was also trained to wake Tracy up every morning for work when her husband was TDY for six weeks. Daisy naturally helps with ‘reduction of hyper-vigilance through teamwork’. Bottom line is that Daisy makes Tracy feel safe.

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST
Always=All the time
Mostly=Most of the time (more than half of time)
Sometimes=Some of the time (half or less of the time)
Never=Never demonstrated the skill
The team must score all ‘Always’ or’ Mostly’ ’ responses on the A-M-S-N parts of the test.
The team must score at least 80% “YES” answers on the “YES” “NO” portion of the test.
All questions marked by an asterisk (*) must be answered by a “YES” response.

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Daisy did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Daisy waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Daisy waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Daisy remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Daisy stayed in relative heel position. Always
Daisy was calm around traffic.* Yes
Daisy stopped when Tracy came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Daisy waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Daisy waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.*

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Daisy was within the prescribed distance of Tracy. Always
Daisy ignored the public, remaining focused on Tracy. Always
Daisy readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Daisy readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Daisy readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Daisy responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Daisy remained under control and focused on Tracy.* Yes
Daisy came within the prescribed distance of Tracy.* Yes
Daisy came directly to Tracy.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Daisy responded promptly to the command to sit. Mostly
Daisy remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Daisy remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Daisy maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Daisy responded promptly to the command to down. Mostly
Daisy remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Daisy remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Daisy or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Daisy jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Daisy should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Daisy remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Daisy is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Daisy maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Tracy got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Daisy’s leash and Tracy can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Daisy.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Daisy stayed in relative heel position. Always
Daisy was calm around traffic.* Yes
Daisy stopped when Tracy came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Daisy waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Daisy readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Daisy did well, Tracy praised Daisy. Always
Daisy is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Tracy kept Daisy under control. Always
Tracy was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Attack, San Antonio, Texas

CONGRATS TO ANN AND SD SCHATZ!!

1 Comment

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANN AND HER NOW SD SCHATZI!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT)!

San Antonio Trainer Sue tested Ann and her Weimeraner SD Schatzi. Ann suffers from Anxiety, OCD and Panic Attacks.

Sue writes:

“Ann and Schatzi are a great team. Schatzi had his basic obedience training a while ago and was truly eager to learn new tasks to help Ann in public”

SCORING OF THE PUBLIC ACCESS CERTIFICATION TEST
Always=All the time
Mostly=Most of the time (more than half of time)
Sometimes=Some of the time (half or less of the time)
Never=Never demonstrated the skill
The team must score all ‘Always’ or’ Mostly’ ’ responses on the A-M-S-N parts of the test.
The team must score at least 80% “YES” answers on the “YES” “NO” portion of the test.
All questions marked by an asterisk (*) must be answered by a “YES” response.

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Schatzi did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Schatzi waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Schatzi waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Schatzi remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Schatzi stayed in relative heel position. Always
Schatzi was calm around traffic.* Yes
Schatzi stopped when Ann came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Schatzi waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Schatzi waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Schatzi was within the prescribed distance of Ann. Always
Schatzi ignored the public, remaining focused on Ann. Always
Schatzi readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Schatzi readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Schatzi readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Schatzi responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Schatzi remained under control and focused on Ann.* Yes
Schatzi came within the prescribed distance of Ann.* Yes
Schatzi came directly to Ann.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Schatzi responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Schatzi remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Schatzi remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Schatzi maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Schatzi responded promptly to the command to down. Mostly
Schatzi remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Schatzi remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Schatzi or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Schatzi jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Schatzi should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Schatzi remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Schatzi is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Schatzi maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Ann got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Schatzi’s leash and Ann can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Schatzi.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Schatzi stayed in relative heel position. Always
Schatzi was calm around traffic.* Yes
Schatzi stopped when Ann came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Schatzi waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Schatzi readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Schatzi did well, Ann praised Schatzi. Always
Schatzi is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Ann kept Schatzi under control. Always
Ann was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

Anxiety, Army, Austin, Depression, Military, Pain Management, PTSD, Texas, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO RUSSELL AND CHEWIE

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO ARMY WOUNDED WARRIOR RUSSELL AND HIS NOW SERVICE DOG, MALTESE/YORKIE MIX “CHEWIE”!!!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!!!!

Russell suffers from PTSD, anger issues, depression, anxiety, and pain management.

Austin trainer Lori writes:

“Russell and Chewie took the Public Access Test at Walmart in Cedar Park, TX. Chewie was just outstanding, and it’s all because of the hard work Russell has put into his training. This team was spot on!

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

Chewie did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.

Chewie waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Chewie waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Chewie remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Chewie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Chewie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Chewie stopped when Russell came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

Chewie waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Chewie waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

Chewie was within the prescribed distance of Russell. Always
Chewie ignored the public, remaining focused on Russell. Always
Chewie readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Chewie readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Chewie readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

Chewie responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Chewie remained under control and focused on Russell.* Yes
Chewie came within the prescribed distance of Russell.* Yes
Chewie came directly to Russell.* Yes

SITS ON COMMAND

Chewie responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Chewie remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Chewie remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Chewie maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes

DOWNS ON COMMAND

Chewie responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Chewie remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Chewie remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Chewie or be overly dramatic.* Yes

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

If Chewie jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Chewie should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.

Chewie remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

Chewie is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Chewie maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes

OFF LEAD

When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Russell got the leash back in position.* Yes

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

Another person can take Chewie’s leash and Russell can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Chewie.* Yes

CONTROLLED EXIT

Chewie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Chewie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Chewie stopped when Russell came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

Chewie waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Chewie readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Chewie did well, Russell praised Chewie. Always
Chewie is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Russell kept Chewie under control. Always
Russell was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes

PASS TEST: Yes – with a score of 100%!!”

Anxiety, Army, Depression, Military, Panic Attack, PTSD, Texas, Veteran, Wichita Falls, Wounded Warrior

Army Wounded Warrior Rosamaria and “Gunnie”.

From our trainer Barbara in Wichita Falls, who had her initial intake and assessment with Army Wounded Warrior Rosamaria and her SDIT, English Bulldog, “Gunnie”. Rosamaria suffers from PTSD, major depressive disorder, chronic anxiety, anger issues, night terrors, and panic attacks.

Barbara writes:

“The first session was at Rosa’s home. I performed an initial intake and assessment of Gunnie as a potential Service Dog.

Environment: I met Rosa and Gunnie at her home on a cool day, 32 degrees with a slight breeze. Rosa lives on the third floor of an apartment complex. Initially, I met Rosa and Gunnie in the parking lot of their apartment complex. Gunnie was walking on a harness and pulling in front of Rosa.

Initial Focus and Demeanor: Gunnie was more interested in me than his surroundings, and gravitated toward me. Gunnie was sometimes distracted by his surroundings, but quickly changed focus. Gunnie makes eye contact voluntarily and holds it for a few moments. Gunnie was relaxed, calm and had high energy.

Touch and Handling: Gunnie allows petting under his chin and is okay with gentle full-body touching. He accepts full-body massage-like pressure. Gunnie is comfortable with mouth handling, stroking, lifting lips to look at teeth, and I could safely put my hand in his mouth. Gunnie did pull away without teeth touching skin.

Response to Distractions: Gunnie did fine with people at a distance and basically ignored them. Rosa shared that Gunnie has alerted to strangers at night, and keeps his eyes on them until they are no longer in sight. Gunnie has no problems with any man, woman, child or other dogs. He does startle to loud noises, but recovers quickly. Gunnie whines at other dogs wanting to play with them. Rosa shared that cats are a definite NO NO for Gunnie. Gunnie goes to PetSmart and has no problems with people, children and dogs.

Trainability: Gunnie is totally food motivated and willingly followed through for sit, stand, down, watch me, heel, and he kept his focus on myself and Rosa, whoever was training.

Final Focus and Demeanor: Gunnie is more comfortable and focused on me especially with treats. Gunnie gave eye contact more easily now while in the home. Gunnie has been walking on a harness.

What extra tasks were worked today? We discussed buying items from Active Dogs through Service Dog Express for a discount, and Rosa stated she had a few items picked out. I encouraged her to send that information to SDE to receive her 18% discount. We also discussed using a prong collar and treats to help Gunnie to learn to heel in the correct position. Rosa stated that he pulled more initially, and was doing better but they haven’t really worked on it recently. Rosa heeled with Gunnie in her apartment with treats and Gunnie stayed with her and in heel position most of the time. We also discussed using one word commands; Rosa hasn’t decided which to use; sit or up.

What improvements were made since last session? Rosa stated Gunnie did not like going into the down position. Gunnie gave wonderful downs for me without hesitations along with treats.

What area(s) need attention? Figure out commands, keep them one word, and use consistently.

What homework was given for the next session? Work on Sit, Stand, Down and add the Stays. Work on correct heel position (Gunnie’s front leg in line with Rosa’s left leg) and don’t forget to play. Practice at least one hour a day.

What a beautiful team – and Gunnie is fantastic!! Rosa would like for Gunnie to help her break her panic attacks and flashbacks and help to calm her. She shared that Gunnie naturally leans on her legs or sits between her legs and leans one way when she is experiencing anxiety. We will work toward helping Rosa and Gunnie fine tune this skill to help Rosa the best way possible.”

Equipment, Experience, Medical Alert, Military, Mobility, PTSD, San Antonio, Self Training, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

Robin’s Training Experience

After an intensive week of many, many hours a day training here in San Antonio after she and Smokey flew in from Philadelphia, combined with her own self-training (she had a previous Service Dog who just passed away), the team passed the Public Access Test!!!

Smokey is a rescued, 3 year-old black Labrador/Shepherd mix.  Robin suffers from complex PTSD and mobility and balance issues.  Robin spent two years in the Israeli Army, and then went on to become a Physician’s Assistant.  Robin’s trainers were Beverli and Laurie .

Laurie was absolutely delighted to see the transformation in both Smokey and Robin’s disposition from the time they arrived until the day they left.  They came as a unit that knew most every “command”, but by the end of the week of training, their bond had increased dramatically and the team dynamic was outstanding!!!!

Please watch this 15 minute video of Robin talking about her experience: