Talking Tails - 10/11/16

The things these dogs can be trained to do is quite interesting. They can be guide dogs, serving as eyes for their handlers. They lead their handler in walking and protect them from obstacles in the way. They can even find items dropped by their handlers. Others are hearing dogs and alert their deaf handlers to important sounds, from door bells, alarm clocks, microwaves, smoke alarms, to sirens. They are trained to touch their handler with a paw or nose and take them to the source of the sound. Some dogs are trained to perform daily tasks, such as opening cabinets or reaching for the phone, and are categorized as mobility service dogs. Chemical changes in the body that indicate an upcoming seizure or diabetic sugar spike can be detected by alert and response dogs. This early alert allows their handler to take medicine or get to a safe place. If a seizure occurs, the dog will respond by laying on their handler to minimize movement and possible injury. Psychiatric service dogs help handlers who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and a variety of anxiety and panic disorders. They are trained to calm fears and provide a “here and now” for handlers who suffer from traumatic memories.

Wow, we are so impressed and proud of our service dog brothers and sisters. We salute you and your giving hearts – living your lives to let your handlers live as normal a life as possible.

Talk to you soon!

Buster and Joey