Category Archives: PTSD

Autism, General, Psychiatric, PTSD, San Antonio, Texas

We are Ayden Wheeler! by Shannon Jarrell-Ivey – GoFundMe

Look at this truly heartbreaking but ultimately beautiful story – unbelievable that such a thing can happen. Thank you to the amazing family that helped Ayden thrive despite everything – and now, we will be doing our best to find him a “best buddy” in a Service Dog! They still could use help with the cost of training – but will go to the ends of the earth to help their son – along with the many other special needs children they have adopted. Ayden is now 8, and coming home for GOOD from his RTC! Ayden will need a medium-sized dog that is as hypoallergenic as possible – perhaps there is some wonderful agency that would consider donating or helping us find this young boy his perfect dog? A “doodle” or standard poodle perhaps? Is there any doubt there are angels among us?

Please help out and donate: We are Ayden Wheeler! by Shannon Jarrell-Ivey – GoFundMe

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%

Austin, Experience, PTSD, Texas

CONGRATS TO MISTY AND SERVICE DOG “AXLE”

CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT MISTY AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, YELLOW LABRADOR RETRIEVER, “AXLE”! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!!!
 
Misty suffers from PTSD. She was violently assaulted while working overseas in Kuwait in 2014. She was beaten until she was unconscious, and recently had her third surgery. When she first applied for Service Dog training, Misty had just begun learning what her “triggers” were, and she is on several medications right now to help her sleep through the night and try to function “normally”. She didn’t know what was wrong with her in the beginning, and didn’t start talking to a therapist until she returned to the US last October. LOOK how far she has come!!!! Training with a Service Dog – we are SO proud of you, dear Misty!!
 
Trainer Lori writes:
 
“Today, Misty and her now Service Dog “Axle” passed the Public Access Test at the Tractor Supply in Lampasas, TX! For the restaurant portion of the test, we went next door to the El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant. I am so proud of this team! They passed with a score of 100%!”
 
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:
 
Axle did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.
 
Axle waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Axle waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Axle remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes
 
APPROACHING THE BUILDING:
 
Relative heel position, not straining or forging.
 
Axle stayed in relative heel position. Always
Axle was calm around traffic.* Yes
Axle stopped when Misty came to a halt. Always
 
CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY
 
Axle waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Axle waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes
 
HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING
 
Axle was within the prescribed distance of Misty. Always
Axle ignored the public, remaining focused on Misty. Always
Axle readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Axle readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Axle readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always
 
SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD
 
Axle responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Axle remained under control and focused on Misty.* Yes
Axle came within the prescribed distance of Misty.* Yes
Axle came directly to Misty.* Yes
 
SITS ON COMMAND
 
Axle responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Axle remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Axle remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Axle maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes
 
DOWNS ON COMMAND
 
Axle responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Axle remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Axle remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Axle or be overly dramatic.* Yes
 
NOISE DISTRACTIONS
 
If Axle jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Axle should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.
 
Axle remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes
 
RESTAURANT
 
Axle is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Axle maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes
 
OFF LEAD
 
When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Misty got the leash back in position.* Yes
 
DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON
 
Another person can take Axle’s leash and Misty can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Axle.* Yes
 
CONTROLLED EXIT
 
Axle stayed in relative heel position. Always
Axle was calm around traffic.* Yes
Axle stopped when Misty came to a halt. Always
 
CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE
 
Axle waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Axle readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes
 
TEAM RELATIONSHIP
 
When Axle did well, Misty praised Axle. Always
Axle is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Misty kept Axle under control. Always
Misty was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes
 
PASS TEST: Yes
Agoraphobia, Anxiety, Bipolar, Night Terrors, PTSD, San Antonio, Texas

CONGRATS TO KERRI AND BANDIT

CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT KERRI AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, CORGI “BANDIT”!! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!

Kerri suffers from PTSD, agoraphobia, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and night terrors which are a result of the PTSD. She also has type 2 diabetes and often forgets to eat properly or at the right times.

Trainer Beverli performed the PAT at the HEB Grocery Store in New Braunfels. They scored an “Always” on the questions marked by an asterisk (*), and will continue to work on the commands that had a “Mostly” response.

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:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Bandit stayed in relative heel position. Mostly
Bandit was calm around traffic.* Yes
Bandit stopped when Kerri came to a halt. Mostly

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Bandit remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

Bandit stayed in relative heel position. Mostly
Bandit was calm around traffic.* Yes
Bandit stopped when Kerri came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

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

PASS TEST: Yes

Anxiety, Bipolar, El Paso, Fibromyalgia, PTSD, Texas

CONGRATS TO JORDAN AND SERVICE DOG, “BELLA”!!

1 Comment

CONGRATULATIONS TO JORDAN AND NOW SERVICE DOG, “BELLA”!! BELLA IS A PIT BULL MIX. THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST (PAT)!! Jordan suffers from Anxiety, Bipolar, Fibromyalgia and PTSD.

Our El Paso Trainer Terry writes:

After all the medical obstacles that Jordan faced, she and her Service Dog “Bella”, effectively and efficiently adapted, maneuvered, and overcame all the road blocks presented to become a Service Dog Team. Good luck and God bless Jordan & Bella in their 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:

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

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

APPROACHING THE BUILDING:

Relative heel position, not straining or forging.

Bella stayed in relative heel position. Mostly
Bella was calm around traffic.* Yes
Bella stopped when Jordan came to a halt. Always

CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY

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

HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING

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

SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD

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

SITS ON COMMAND

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

DOWNS ON COMMAND

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

NOISE DISTRACTIONS

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

Bella remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes

RESTAURANT

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

OFF LEAD

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

DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON

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

CONTROLLED EXIT

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

CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE

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

TEAM RELATIONSHIP

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

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

Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine, Military, Navy, PTSD, TBI, Veteran, Wounded Warrior

Brain Injury Awareness Month – Caring for Military Families: The Elizabeth Dole FoundationCaring for Military Families: The Elizabeth Dole Foundation

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation recognized Brain Injury Awareness Month by calling attention to the unique needs and resources available to those who care for service members and veterans who sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI). More than 320,000 service members have returned from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan with a TBI, and the Foundation’s …

Source: Brain Injury Awareness Month – Caring for Military Families: The Elizabeth Dole FoundationCaring for Military Families: The Elizabeth Dole Foundation