3 Days to Training!

In  three days, I begin an incredible opportunity to train for a service dog.  Canine Companions for Independence (or CCI for short) has provided specially trained retrievers for the physically disabled since the 70s.  The founder of CCI was working in third world countries and observed how the physically disabled would lean and depend on their donkeys for support.  Decidedly, donkeys aren't the cleanest of animals; so, the founder brainstormed and observed how selflessly canines would work for their humans.

From working in the veterinary field for over twelve years, I have come across these well-behaved and trusting animals a few times.... a vet tech's dream to work with! CCI uses positive reinforcement and treats, if needed, to train.  At the end of their training, a dog will know over 40 commands.  I have had the pleasure of witnessing these golden/lab crosses performing awesome tasks, such as pulling a manual wheelchair, turning on/off light switches, opening doors, fetching a bottle of water from the fridge, helping a human partner take off socks or a jacket; and most importantly, emotionally build ones confidence to join a judgemental society again. I am still in disbelief that, one of these wonderful dogs will soon be helping ME with all that, plus more! (As a side note, I am still in disbelief that I am handicapped to such a degree, that a service dog would be such a help, but that is another blog!)

In three days, I leave my family for two weeks to go to school at CCI's campus in Medford, NY. I will be in lectures and training sessions from 9am to about 5pm.  My Mom and I went grocery shopping for my dorm stay and it was tremendous throw back to my college days (which occurred a looooooong, loooooooong time ago).  My intention is to bring you along my journey of training and hopefully bringing a new partner home.  Everyday I will blog an update of my day and how things are progressing.  If you should decide to follow me, welcome!  :o)