For many years the only Service Dogs of which people were aware were those used by the blind or visually impaired:  the dogs were known as "Seeing Eye Dogs" or "Guide Dogs."  Now, however, we recognize that dogs can be trained to be Service Dogs for many disabling conditions, such as visual impairment, seizure alert, medical alert (such as diabetes, blood pressure issues, infection, etc.), psychiatric issues (Stress Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, Asberger's Syndrome, Austism, etc.), mobility or stability issues such as Parkinson's, plus many, many more.

With their amazing ability to alert to possibly fatal conditions well in advance of the condition becoming a problem, Service Dogs have brought the ability to live, not just exist, to many disabled people.  Imagine knowing 45 minutes in advance that you were about to have a seizure, because your Partner Service Dog was able to smell the chemical changes in your body, when previously you had NO warning!  You can now feel confident when you leave your home, hold a job, go shopping, etc., knowing that your Partner will alert you in time for you to get to help and safety.  And your loved ones will feel more secure when leaving you, knowing that your Service Dog will be watching over you.

Many people with Autism show an amazing improvement in their ability to concentrate and communicate when they partner with a Service Dog.  Some children who are unable to talk or otherwise communicate with people will communicate through their Service Dog.

(Stay tuned .... more information on Service Dogs in on the way!)