We Train & Place Service Dogs for Medically Complex Individuals
Often, a service dog can provide The tools necessary for a person with a disability to better access their community and become more independent. The daily tasks, such as retrieving important medications or a phone, are an essential to the wellbeing of our clients. Dogs have been linked to positive changes in mood, self esteem, & even blood pressure. Just the touch of a dog can sometimes make us feel a little bit better. The combination of a dog's ability to assist both physically and emotionally is truly life changing.
Research suggests dogs and people with similar preferences, energy levels, and strengths are more compatible. Dogs display many of the same personality characteristics as humans; for example dogs and people alike can be 'low-key' and mellow, focused, 'happy go lucky', driven, etc... Throughout the process we gain an understanding of our clients' needs . We then use this information to match them with a dog who will share their outlook on life- making for successful, lasting partnerships.
No two applicants are the same, nor are any two dogs; in some cases it can take several months for us to match a recipient with their future partner and other times the right match becomes apparent immediately! Along the same lines, sometimes the perfect match for a client is already in training, and other times we start from scratch.
Each service dog is trained specifically for their future partner. SIT service dogs undergo anywhere from a minimum of 1250 hours of training, depending on their age, previous training, and client specific needs. Each dog learns 50 basic commands, in addition to rigorous socialization, before moving on to client specific tasks.
The majority of our dogs come from our own breeding program. Litters are planned with care and diligence to ensure the best possible conditions for healthy, confident, intuitive pups that will develop into terrific service dogs. Dogs that begin the program as newborn pups start training when they are only 3 days old! We utilize neurostimulating exercises used in the “Superdog Program” developed by the military.
Basic socialization begins early. Puppies as young as 8 weeks begin visiting stores, parks, and schools to become accustomed to the noises and smells that will soon become part of their day to day jobs.
Typically recipients are partnered with a particular dog at some point in training based on compatible personalities, ability, temperament, and breed/size needs. The application process and personal interview gives us a better idea of the ideal match. We then begin looking at dogs as they develop during the training, socialization, and maturation process to see which dogs match up best with applicants.
Once training and fund-raising are complete, clients and their new service dogs complete graduation training camp. During graduation, the new service dog team begins the bonding process, and learns to navigate the world together. Its the beginning of a special journey between the pair.
Breeding stock is tested for congenital conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and CentroNuclear Myopathy (CNM) as well structural soundness.
15
Years of Experience
300+
Dogs Graduated
42
Different States
Our Clients
Enjoy Being Involved
Many of our clients enjoy being involved throughout the entire process. Because every client is different, we discuss the degree to which and in what ways he/she will be involved in the training and socializing of his/her new service dog. We work one-on-one with clients to determine what suits their needs best. We are always just a phone call or email away.
Before graduating from the program, each dog must pass several skill/temperament testing and a public access evaluation (we use the standards set forth by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners for public access work). Clients then complete a week long training course with their new canine partner. Throughout the week we focus on facilitating the bonding process, familiarizing the client and any family members or aids in the use and care of the dog, integrating the dog into the clients routine, and discuss the next step for the new team. At the end of the week, clients must demonstrate the ability to utilize the service dog appropriately, handle the dog safely in public places, and care for the dog.
Our Mission
Why We Care
Our mission is to improve the lives of people with disabilities due to progressive and chronic illnesses, trauma, & other conditions by not only making every day tasks easier, but also encouraging the emotional bond between a dog and its person to further support & foster independence. We intentionally remain a smaller, personal program allowing us to provide one on one support to every unique client.
We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling and independent life, regardless of the challenges they face. Our commitment to this mission is driven by our deep compassion for those whose lives are impacted by disabilities. We have witnessed the transformative power of service dogs, not just in providing physical assistance, but in offering unwavering companionship, comfort, and confidence. It's this profound impact that fuels our dedication to our work, as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of both the people we serve and the dogs we train.
