IT’ SUPERBOWL TIME. If you are a fan of football and like to root for the underdog check out these DOGS. At one time they were underdogs (literally). They were passed over time and time again. But the good folks at In Dog We Trust gave them a chance. With love and care these underdogs are now WINNING, they found homes, they found their callings, they won their Superbowl! Please share and while you are at it tell In Dog We Trust thanks with a Facebook LIKE or a donation. They did and are continuously doing a fantastic job!
Category Archives: San Antonio
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
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
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%
CONGRATS TO KALIE AND GRACIE
CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT KALIE AND HER NOW SERVICE DOG, LABRADOODLE, “GRACIE”! THEY PASSED THEIR PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!!!
San Antonio Trainer Pat writes:
Gracie is about 14 months now, knows what the phrase “She’s SOOOO CUTE” means, and has calmed down nicely over the time I have been working with her and Kalie. While she is still an energetic adolescent, she knows that her job is to watch over Kalie. She alerts to Kalie before she has a seizure and responds with intense focus when it happens. Kalie has a reliable companion as she moves forward into her college years.
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:
Gracie did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.
Gracie waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Gracie waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Gracie remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes
APPROACHING THE BUILDING:
Relative heel position, not straining or forging.
Gracie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Gracie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Gracie stopped when Kalie came to a halt. Always
CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY
Gracie waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Gracie waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes
HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING
Gracie was within the prescribed distance of Kalie. Always
Gracie ignored the public, remaining focused on Kalie. Mostly
Gracie readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Gracie readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Gracie readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always
SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD
Gracie responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Gracie remained under control and focused on Kalie.* Yes
Gracie came within the prescribed distance of Kalie.* Yes
Gracie came directly to Kalie.* Yes
SITS ON COMMAND
Gracie responded promptly to the command to sit. Mostly
Gracie remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Gracie remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Gracie maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* No
DOWNS ON COMMAND
Gracie responded promptly to the command to down. Mostly
Gracie remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Gracie remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Gracie or be overly dramatic.* No
NOISE DISTRACTIONS
If Gracie jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Gracie should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.
Gracie remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes
RESTAURANT
Gracie is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Gracie maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes
OFF LEAD
When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Kalie got the leash back in position.* Yes
DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON
Another person can take Gracie’s leash and Kalie can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Gracie.* Yes
CONTROLLED EXIT
Gracie stayed in relative heel position. Always
Gracie was calm around traffic.* Yes
Gracie stopped when Kalie came to a halt. Always
CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE
Gracie waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Gracie readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes
TEAM RELATIONSHIP
When Gracie did well, Kalie praised Gracie. Always
Gracie is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Mostly
Kalie kept Gracie under control. Always
Kalie was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes
PASS TEST: YES
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
CONGRATS TO CODY AND SD GUNNER!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO CLIENT CODY AND HIS NOW SERVICE DOG, WEIMARANER “GUNNER”!! THEY PASSED THE PUBLIC ACCESS TEST!!
Cody suffers from medical conditions in which he requires an “alert” from Gunner. He also suffers from mobility issues.
Trainer Letty writes:
“The Public Access Test with Cody and Gunner took place at Target and Panera at the Forum. They are an absolutely wonderful team. Cody and Gunner were a true pleasure to work with. I have suggested that we should work on a bit more on mobility with Gunner after the Public Access Test.
CONTROLLED UNLOAD OUT OF VEHICLE:
Gunner did not try to leave vehicle until given release command.
Gunner waited in the vehicle until released.* Yes
Gunner waited outside the vehicle under control. Yes
Gunner remained under control while another dog was walked. Yes
APPROACHING THE BUILDING:
Relative heel position, not straining or forging.
Gunner stayed in relative heel position. Always
Gunner was calm around traffic.* Yes
Gunner stopped when Cody came to a halt. Always
CONTROLLED ENTRY THROUGH A DOORWAY
Gunner waited quietly at the door until commanded to enter.* Yes
Gunner waited on the inside until able to return to heel position.* Yes
HEELING THROUGH THE BUILDING
Gunner was within the prescribed distance of Cody. Always
Gunner ignored the public, remaining focused on Cody. Always
Gunner readily adjusted to speed changes. Always
Gunner readily turned corners–did not have to be tugged or jerked to change direction. Always
Gunner readily maneuvered through tight quarters. Always
SIX FOOT RECALL ON LEAD
Gunner responded readily to the recall command–did not stray away, seek attention from others, or trudge slowly.* Yes
Gunner remained under control and focused on Cody.* Yes
Gunner came within the prescribed distance of Cody.* Yes
Gunner came directly to Cody.* Yes
SITS ON COMMAND
Gunner responded promptly to the command to sit. Always
Gunner remained under control around food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Gunner remained composed while the shopping cart passed–did not shy away, show signs of fear, etc.* Yes
Gunner maintained a sit-stay while being petted by a stranger.* Yes
DOWNS ON COMMAND
Gunner responded promptly to the command to down. Always
Gunner remained under control around the food–not trying to get food and not needing repeated corrections.* Yes
Gunner remained in control while the child approached – child should not taunt Gunner or be overly dramatic.* Yes
NOISE DISTRACTIONS
If Gunner jumps, turns, or shows a quick startle type reaction, that is fine. Gunner should not show fear, aggression, or continue to be affected by the noise.
Gunner remained composed during the noise distraction.* Yes
RESTAURANT
Gunner is unobtrusive and out of the way of patrons and employees as much as possible.* Yes
Gunner maintained proper behavior, ignoring food and being quiet.* Yes
OFF LEAD
When told to drop the leash, the team maintained control and Cody got the leash back in position.* Yes
DOG TAKEN BY ANOTHER PERSON
Another person can take Gunner’s leash and Cody can move away without aggression or undue stress on the part of Gunner.* Yes
CONTROLLED EXIT
Gunner stayed in relative heel position. Always Gunner was calm around traffic.* Yes
Gunner stopped when Cody came to a halt. Always
CONTROLLED LOAD INTO VEHICLE
Gunner waited until commanded to enter the vehicle. Yes
Gunner readily entered the vehicle upon command. Yes
TEAM RELATIONSHIP
When Gunner did well, Cody praised Gunner. Always
Gunner is relaxed, confident, and friendly. Always
Cody kept Gunner under control. Always
Cody was prepared with proper working materials and equipment in case of an access confrontation (laws, etc.). Yes
PASS TEST: Yes – 100%!!”
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
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
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
