Category Archives: Depression

Agoraphobia, Depression, San Antonio, Texas

CONGRATS TO TAYLOR AND “TUCKER”

CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT TAYLOR AND NOW SERVICE DOG, HEELER MIX “TUCKER”!!! THEY PASSED THE PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!!

Taylor suffers from severe depression and agoraphobia.

Trainer Letty writes:

“I can’t stress how far this team has come! When we started, I looked at this team as a true challenge. Tucker was extremely hyperactive, and Taylor had almost no control of him. He ate through more than one leash and had a few accidents while training in public. Taylor really worked hard to turn things around with Tucker. She trained tirelessly on not only his basics but on all aspects of his Service Dog training. I am extremely proud of this amazing Service Dog team.”

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:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

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

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Tucker remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

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

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

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

PASS TEST: Yes

Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Military, Navy, Night Terrors, Panic Attack, PTSD, San Antonio, Texas, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR STEVE AND “ELLIE”

CONGRATULATIONS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR (NAVY) STEVE AND HIS NOW SERVICE DOG, GREAT DANE “ELLIE”!!!!!!!!!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST – AND ELLIE IS AN OFFICIAL RED CROSS THERAPY DOG, AS WELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve suffers from PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and night terrors – but not much anymore since he’s had ELLIE!!

Laurie writes:

“What can I say? Service Dog Ellie is an absolutely perfect, on-point, sharp as a tack, loving Great Dane. Her relationship with her handler, Steve, is unbelievable. There is nothing this team can’t do! Ellie is truly a model Service Dog, and she brings so much joy to Steve and his whole family! Ellie does many extra tasks like “covers”, “deep pressure therapy”, waking Steve up from night terrors, and she goes from room to room checking on each member of the house before she lies down! Ellie had also earned her Red Cross patch, and accompanies Steve to disaster relief areas, where she provides therapy for those in distress! She is on her way to her third trip for flood victims, where she is treated like a queen at the places they stay! Here are pictures of Ellie on her first Amtrak train ride!

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:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

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

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Ellie remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

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

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

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

PASS TEST: Yes – 110%

Anxiety, Depression, Night Terrors, Panic Attack, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

CONGRATS TO CHRISTIAN AND ELLEN

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CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT CHRISTIAN AND HIS NOW SERVICE DOG, “ELLEN”!!! THEY PASSED THE PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!! Christian suffers from PTSD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and night terrors. Christian was a first responder at Ground Zero (in an unofficial capacity) and suffered from sexual abuse as a child.

Trainer Robin, in Philadelphia, writes:

“Service Dog “Ellen” was initially trained as a Seeing Eye dog through another organization. Therefore commands are different, and she was trained to walk further ahead (hip to leg) and to keep the leash taut. She is, however, extremely bonded, obedient, enthusiastic and responsive. Great dog!

Location of where PAT took place: Bridgewater Commons, NJ

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:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

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

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Ellen remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

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

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

When Ellen did well, Christian praised Ellen. Always
Ellen is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Christian kept Ellen under control. Always
Christian was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). No

PASS TEST: Yes

Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Military, Mobility, Navy, Pain Management, San Antonio, Texas, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

CONGRATS TO WOUNDED WARRIOR BRIAN AND SD HOLLY!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO NAVY WOUNDED WARRIOR BRIAN AND HIS AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER, “HOLLY”!!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!!! Brian suffers from Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Mobility, and Pain Management (two hip replacements, extreme back pain issues, knee injuries)

Director and San Antonio Trainer Laurie writes:

Brian and his rescued American Pit Bull Terrier, “Holly”, have done an absolutely TREMENDOUS job training at home prior to “official” training – and have continuously worked daily on all required commands including extra commands to keep Holly’s mind sharp and Brian always thinking outside of the box. Holly immediately comes to Brian when he is having extreme anxiety or depression and offers deep pressure therapy, paws at him, or nudges his chest. They have an incredibly wonderful bond, and are truly best buddies! Brian said that through training Holly, he himself has learned how to react more calmly and have renewed confidence in himself.

Brain wrote, “We are so excited that Holly has done so well and we are now ready for our new life together as a team, and a totally different life for Holly. The training process itself is therapy worth its weight in gold. Not only have I learned more about myself and how to deal with my symptoms, but I have gained a partner in Holly, and an advocate and friend in Laurie. Now I can add something to my list of things I started and finished. Even though the training really never ends, Holly and I have reached that mark where we are given our wings, to now strive for excellence and healing together!!”

SO PROUD OF THEM!!! SUCH BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRING WORDS!!!! YAY TEAM BRIAN AND HOLLY!!!

CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

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

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Holly remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

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

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

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

PASS TEST: Yes

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

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, 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.”