7 replies to this topic

[seeker]

Ok, so I have been thinking about this for a while now, and finally went on the Dogs for the Disabled website to see about getting a companion dog for my husband to keep him company while I make my rounds as Avon lady. But they will only consider him if he can take the dog out for walks and such on his own, and he can't do that and if we can go to their place for training and such, and we can't do that. So that idea went down the tubes. I am perfectly willing and able to take the dog for walks and such, but would like some help taking care of him (my husband). Such as, if he needs a book/magazine, or something picked up off the floor, or a blanket, or what have you...just the little things, that I have to stop what I am doing and do for him.

My question is....is there a place in the UK other than Dogs for the Disabled that trains dogs for that?

Thanks!
Joanne

Edited by seeker, 30 December 2008 - 11:25 AM.

[azx43]

Hi Seeker!
I am not in the UK, but I want to help with th "service dog'' idea as I have a service animal of my own and know about the positive change they can make in a person's likfe. The organisation that I trained my own dog through is called Top Dog and they are located in Tuscon, AZ. What's cool about Top Dog is that they teach people to do all the dog training themselves, meaning that the "finished product" service dog is one that is totally custom-trained for the ikndividual and their needs. Also, the dog and human are bonded closer since the dog has lived with the human faMily just like any other dog, and not suddenly descended on them like an ultra-$$$ toy.

I know that Top Dog is really growing and expanding their services, and I also know that they have books, DVDs, online classes, etc. so I don't why a program like theirs wouldn't work for someone overseas. They are worth a look!! Their website is www.topdogusa.comTop Dog

[qbounce]

Sounds like his injury is recent?? Give him some time to adjust in therapy. Before long he may be able to do those things you listed on his own. Sorry for presuming, but I know those small things are huge when they're initially difficult to achieve on his own.

Wait a year to a year and a half first to see what he's capable of. Then consider a dog, but I'd hate for you to hinder his abilities by havings others do things he may be able to eventually accomplish by himself.

[wheelywendy]

hi there is also canine partners, support dogs (they also train your own pet dog) and dog aid that will help you bring on a dog to assist your husband or just to be a good companion for him http://www.dogaid.org.uk/ http://www.caninepartners.co.uk/ http://www.support-d.../contact_us.htm here are the 3 links to them good luck my assistance dog has made a big difference to my quality of life

Edited by wheelywendy, 31 December 2008 - 08:20 PM.

[seeker]

qbounce, on Dec 30 2008, 06:40 PM, said:

Sounds like his injury is recent?? Give him some time to adjust in therapy. Before long he may be able to do those things you listed on his own. Sorry for presuming, but I know those small things are huge when they're initially difficult to achieve on his own.

Wait a year to a year and a half first to see what he's capable of. Then consider a dog, but I'd hate for you to hinder his abilities by havings others do things he may be able to eventually accomplish by himself.

No, he has been injured for 13 years and his ability to do things by himself has diminished because of a srynx (I know that's not spelled right). Just wanted you to know.

wheelywendy, on Dec 31 2008, 08:13 PM, said:

hi there is also canine partners, support dogs (they also train your own pet dog) and dog aid that will help you bring on a dog to assist your husband or just to be a good companion for him http://www.dogaid.org.uk/ http://www.caninepartners.co.uk/ http://www.support-d.../contact_us.htm here are the 3 links to them good luck my assistance dog has made a big difference to my quality of life

Thanks! I'll check those out!!!!

Edited by seeker, 02 January 2009 - 10:56 AM.

[cate]

Hi Seeker. If you go back in the post on here you will find chloe and kim. besides being in a wheelchair she is also blind, she is in Canada, but her partner come from South East England, she trainers her own dogs, and now has a new one. Her partner Julian also trains, they may have some hints for you. They have not been on the forum for a bit, but yhou could pm. best of luck I am sure it will be a grat help and also com[aionship for yhour husband
Cate

[qbounce]

Thannks for clarifying.
Good luck, and post how it goes.

[Paul Breen]

Hi Joanne,

I know one of the trustees of Dogs for the Disabled. If you like I can give him a call and see if he has any other ideas. Drop a post on here if you would like me to help.

Paul