Who We Serve
Our clients are people who require the use of a wheelchair full or part time, or who have a disability that involves balance or motor coordination. Clients must be cognitively able to manage a dog and benefit from the type of assistance a dog can provide. They must also demonstrate an ability to meet the needs of the dog. Children must be at least 10 years old and have adequate adult support whether from parents or an aide or both.
We give preference to clients in Virginia but will help others outside the state when conditions permit. Clients outside of Virginia are encouraged to contact service dog organizations closer to their geographic area so they can receive on going support when needed. Both dogs and people require periodic “tune ups”. When a program is geographically inaccessible, people go without help reducing the effectiveness of their canine helpmates.
Each person who receives a service dog receives our commitment to provide ongoing training and support for the working life of their dog.
Autism Dog Program
Autism has become one of the most talked about disabilities facing children today both nationally and internationally. Autism knows no bounds – it affects the rich and poor alike and is quickly reaching epidemic proportions.
Autism service dogs will improve the family and child's overall quality of life and has the potential to improve a child's communication skills and behavior. In the dog's main role as partner, he is tethered to the child and will anchor himself in a "stay" and not move until cued by the parent/ handler if a child is heading toward an undesirable situation or danger. Dogs are taught to walk with a child by their side at the same time the adult is holding the leash and following behind. A child that is tethered to the dog is thus prevented from running away, or into a dangerous situation. However, what starts out as a fairly simplistic process can lead to far greater success.