Some things I want him to understand here are…
by Lisa Lima on November 7th, 2022
…to automatically default to Heel (without verbal command) if not actively engaged in another behavior;
…to watch my body language for cues that I may be turning or coming to a halt during Heeling;
…how to transition smoothly between halts, turns, sits, and downs during Heeling (i.e. fading his reward, and asking him to work harder and smarter prior to reinforcement); etc.
We’re hosting a 3 Day Service Dog Seminar in Orlando, Florida (at the beautiful Embassy Suites Hotel on I-Drive) from October 22nd – 24th with both Working and Audit Slots available, and an optional Disney Trip with the Service Dogs on October 25th for anyone who’d like to have some additional fun!
So “Do I really need my Service Dog?” or can I ride out this one trip to the restaurant without him? Or perhaps, go bowling with my friends like a normal human being or attend a wedding with family?
It is more than just a lifestyle change to become a Service Dog Team. I am discovering that it is a constant effort to say to myself “Yes, I need my Service Dog and I have the right to have him”! I constantly feel judged, not only with myself and my ‘sudden’ need for a Service Dog, but by the people around me, including those in public and especially the ones who have known me for years and failed to realize how much I was struggling in the first place…..
I recently had a couple come out to my Divide location for a session. As I greeted them in the waiting room, it became clear to me that they were both having a rough morning. It was their first time here at the farm, so I brought them outside and into the corral to greet Sonnet, who was eager to meet her new guests.
As they said hello, I shared “I have a task for you.”
Seeking help isn’t always easy. That’s why one local therapist enlists the support of trained animals.
Have you been struggling lately? Are you experiencing a loss of enjoyment or motivation? Even if you don’t think your needs justify therapy, it can probably help. Like a lot of people, you may be thinking “Therapy is for crazy people, and I’m not crazy!” There’s a widespread stigma that often convinces us to not seek out mental health support when we need it. However, speaking with a professional during a difficult time or after a significant life change can have a very positive effect on your well-being and the time it takes to heal. In fact, most people will benefit from visiting a counselor at least some point in their lives.
