Thanks to a recommendation from a client, we have applied to be a partner with The Gift of Sunshine. We have no idea if we will be accepted, but it is worth a try. If accepted, clients can apply through Service Dog Express to receive assistance with SD training.
From our trainer Letty, who is working with Savannah, a dear 17 yr-old with Epilepsy and Developmental Delays, and her SD, Valentina.
“We had a wonderful training at Target! We worked on a small issues that Valentina and Savannah were having with touching while they walked. This is a technique that is used in mobility; it allows the SD to learn the “normal” gate of their partner. In doing this, when the gate changes or is compromised, the SD can help to correct or stabilize their partner. In some cases, as with Savannah, it can be an indicator of an impending seizure.
I came up with a little device that would keep them closer together and that could be manipulated to continue to “close the gap” between them. I used a stretchy cat collar and a clip. One end was threaded trough the clip and the other into Savannah’s belt loop. Then I simply closed the collar. This gives them both a bit of room to get used to feeling that close as well as keeping them together. It worked like a dream!!!”
WONDERFUL WORK SAVANNAH AND VALENTINA!! GREAT THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX, LETTY!
The two most commonly seen and available head halters in the USA are the “Gentle Leader” (GL) and the “Halti”. They each have their advantages and disadvantages. The general premise is that they work like a horse’s halter. If you can control the head, you can control the body. Some dogs are very resistant to them (often the ones that
would benefit the most) and some accept them with little adjustment period. You can increase your chances of success by introducing the halter in a slow and positive manner.
Gentle Leader:
Manufactured by Premier Pet 
Products, they were formerly only available from trainers and vets, but are now available in many retail places. They come in various sizes and colors, but I suggest choosing a color that closely matches your dog’s face.
Description:
Two “loops” that connect below the chin at the throat. The “neck loop” fits like a collar high on the neck just behind the ears. The fit is quite snug. The “nose loop” goes over the dog’s nose and rests just in front of the eyes. It is adjusted fairly snugly so that the loop won’t slide off the end of the dog’s nose. There is a ring at the bottom where the two loops connect. This is where the leash attaches.
Advantages:
Well made. Nice feeling fabric. Choice of quick release or buckle. A second ring on the neck loop allows you to use it as a collar (nose loop hangs loose at throat rather than over nose) in transitioning off of using the GL. For dogs that accept it readily, the owner can be walking the dog in a matter of minutes. It doesn’t require much training for owners to get started.
Disadvantages:
Snug fit is fairly restrictive. Some dogs find this objectionable. Generally costs more than the Halti. The position of the leash attachment gives less control than that of the Halti.
Halti:
Created by Dr. Roger Mugford and manufactured by Coastal. They are available in many pet supply stores and catalogs. They come in a variety of sizes, originally only in black, but some colors are now available. If you choose a color, choose one that blends with your dog’s face.
Description:
One piece design has cheek straps that connect the nose loop and neck loop portions. Newer models may have some adjustment options. Leash connects to a ring that is located on the bottom under the dog’s chin. All have quick release connectors. Fit should allow a finger to easily slide under both cheek straps.
Advantages:
Looser fit and lighter weight fabric is less restrictive and better accepted by some dogs. Location of the chin ring gives better leverage… easier to turn the dog’s head without twisting the neck. Less expensive and may be easier to find than the GL.
Disadvantages:
Feels a bit flimsier to the touch. Looser fit means that the dog can paw it off or back out of it easier. It is recommended that a back-up leash or collar be used for safety and the Halti now comes with a short safety strap to attach it to the collar. Lack of adjustment means it may not fit all head shapes.