Service Dog Training for Mom

For the past 7 years, I have been looking into getting a service dog. My name is Gail Martin and I have a neurological condition called spinocerebellar ataxia-- SCA for short. It is a progressive degeneration of the part of the brain that controls coordination and balance. Greater assistance and. . . . .

For the past 7 years, I have been looking into getting a service dog. My name is Gail Martin and I have a neurological condition called spinocerebellar ataxia-- SCA for short. It is a progressive degeneration of the part of the brain that controls coordination and balance. Greater assistance and effort are needed to stand and walk. Right now I manage with a walker, scooter and forearm crutches for shorter jaunts. I do fall easily and have additional visual issues. In the future, I will likely progress to a wheelchair. SCA is a part of who I am; it does present its challenges.

A Brace/mobility dog is trained to provide assistance in moving from place to place and helps when needed to regain footing ;they provide bracing to stand or steady myself, open doors, pick up dropped items and even fetch a phone in an emergency. When the dog is older, he can pull a wheelchair. Basic service dog training begins in puppyhood and continues when the dog is almost done growing with brace and mobility training.

In steps PAWS Training Center! They have a Portland Branch that specializes in basic obedience and training to prepares my dog to become a service/mobility dog. There is a facility for further training in Seattle. "The PAWS Training Center's Service Dog Training Program is designed to exceed training requirements of service dogs as defined by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)". Training is in 4 phases: 1) Basic Obedience 2) Advanced Obedience 3) Disability Skills, and 4) Public Access. The cost ranges from $8,000 to $11,500, with an additional $500 for a Stability Harness. There are also costs for traveling.

I have a dog!! Well, a puppy. His name is Jackson Brown--Jack for short. Friends who raise English Labs (Silver Platter Chocolate Labs) have kindly and generously blessed me with a pick of one of their litters. There is one beautiful chocolate boy from one of James' dog, Kona. He is coming home with me Saturday. I am so excited!

I plan to begin basic puppy training and socialization myself until I can get funding. I definitely will need help! The initial evaluation and consultation fee is $200. Would you help me in this adventure? Any amount would be gratefully appreciated. Thanks for your interest. Please share with your friends.