Service Dogs: A Way of Life

News: Enforcing the ADA Report Service Animal Issues Featured

2012-01-27T17:30:00.000-08:00

Settlement Under Title II of ADA "Title II, subtitle A, of the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all services, programs, and activities provided to the public by State and local governments, except public transportation services." An individual with a disability complained that he was asked by a police officer to leave a California municipal park because he was

Taylor & Francis Online :: “Not just a dog”: an attachment perspective on relationships with assistance dogs - Attachment & Human Development - Volume 13, Issue 5

2012-01-18T17:30:00.000-08:00

Taylor & Francis Online :: “Not just a dog”: an attachment perspective on relationships with assistance dogs - Attachment & Human Development - Volume 13, Issue 5 We explored individuals' relationships with an assistance dog from an attachment-theory perspective. We used both inductive and deductive thematic methods to analyze semi-structured interviews with 25 participants who had lost an

News: St. Mercy Medical Center settles violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

2012-01-05T17:30:00.000-08:00

Following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR), St. Edward Mercy Medical Center (Mercy), in Fort Smith, Arkansas has agreed to make changes to its policies and procedures to comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504). The settlement resulted from a complaint filed with OCR by a person with a

Motor Coaches (Bus) and The ADA

2011-12-27T17:30:00.000-08:00

This is a respost because the answer to the question is so short and sweet: Ask Project ACTION“I am a motorcoach operator. I heard the Department of Justice (DOJ) has changed the definition of a service animal to include only dogs and in some cases, miniature horses. How does that change affect me?” Answer: You are referring to a Final Rule issued by the DOJ that made a number of changes

Pet Obesity: Health Implications, Recognition, and Weight Management | petMD

2011-12-24T22:38:00.000-08:00

Service dogs like their human partners gain weight for a variety of reasons; however, because we spend so much with our canine partners and we love them to pieces we may not recognize when they have put on a few extra pounds. Top Reasons Our Service Dogs Pack on the Pounds 1. Simply being over fed. Remember, all treats and chews need to be counted in your service dog's over all calorie count. 2

News: Chongqing (China) lets guide dogs for blind in public

2011-12-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

CHONGQING - Blind residents will be able to take their guide dogs on public transportation in Chongqing as the municipal legislature revised a draft regulation on the protection of the disabled on Friday. The regulation will take effect on Jan 1. When a third draft of the regulation was delivered for discussion at the meeting of the municipal people's congress standing committee on Wednesday,

Need a service dog? Use a chair?

2011-11-28T15:30:00.000-08:00

Hey readers, This note is from the website of Summit Assistance Dogs, the program that trained and placed Shilo with me. Summit typically places dogs around the Northwest and requires several visits prior to placement with an average 2-3week team training. If you think you can meet these requirement an need a service dog because you are a wheelchair user, contact them. Special note about service

News: Fair Housing Lawsuit Filed Against the University of Nebraska at Kearney for Discrimination Against Students with Psychological and Emotional Disabilities

2011-11-28T14:30:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department today filed a lawsuit against the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska and employees of UNK for violating the Fair Housing Act by discriminating against students with disabilities. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for Nebraska, charges that UNK and its employees engaged in a

Shilo and The Airport Relief Area-Seattle/Tacoma International

2011-11-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month Shilo and I flew for the first time in our partnership to attend the Association of University Centers on Disability Annual Conference in Washington D.C.as both self-advocates and staff of a university center for excellence on developmental disabilities. Shilo had traveled and flown before we were matched, so I was not worried about her ability to handle the unique

News: Comments Needed on Service Animal Relief Areas in Airports

2011-11-25T13:15:00.000-08:00

The Department of Transportation is seeking comment on service animal relief areas in airport by Nov. 28, 2011. Service Animal Relief Areas The 2008 amendment to part 382 requires U.S. and foreign air carriers to work with airport operators to provide service animal relief areas at U.S. airports. Part 27 does not include a provision that mirrors this requirement. As such, the Department

News: What Does the Evidence Show Us? The Role and Benefits of Autism Service Dogs

2011-11-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

"Dr. Thomas Zane is a professor of education and director of the Applied Behavior Analysis Online Program at the Van Loan Graduate School of Endicott College. He is a licensed psychologist in New York and Massachusetts. Dr. Zane has published in various journals and books, presented at regional, national, and international conferences, and been an invited lecturer in Ireland

Today is Our 3rd Anniversary!

2011-10-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Today is Shilo's and my third anniversary! That's right, it has been three years since Shilo and I came into each others' lives, and what a three years it has been! Shilo continues to amaze me everyday with her sweet demeanor, creativity and willingness to work. Since being placed Shilo has learned to:Work next to a power chair and manual chair Wheelchair pull work light switches, cabinets,

Change is good, but exhausting!

2011-10-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

First, let me apologized for being away so long. Life in the brick and mortar world has been running on all cylinders with or without me! These last few months have brought my little pack change after change. Cammy, my roommate's guide dog, retired to Texas to live with her parents. By all accounts she is very happy in her retirement and has everyone wrapped around her paws. We, then, welcomed

Off to the Oregon Disability MegaConference!

2011-09-28T23:09:00.000-07:00

Off we go to the Oregon Disabilities MegaConference! Shilo and I will be presenting with Paul White of Oregon Assistance Dogs Leslie, our roommate and co-founder of Willamette Valley Assistance Dog Club, Blaise Golden SDIT, and Cash Black Lab SDIT. We are presenting Life with Service Dogs: Is it for you? on Friday at 8:30am at the Salem Convention Center. We hope to see everyone there!

News: HUD Charges Washington Property Owner with Disability Discrimination

2011-09-27T15:30:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON (Source: HUD) – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced that it has charged the owner and manager of a Lakewood, Washington trailer park with discriminating on the basis of disability. HUD brings the charge on behalf of the Fair Housing Center of Washington, alleging that Deidra Miller, the owner of Terrace Trailers, and property manager

News:Social Security guard faces arrest in fracas over service dog

2011-09-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

By David Ibata The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Melissa McMann, who is visually impaired, recalls minor incidents in which people challenged her about her service dog, but nothing like what happened last week with a security guard at a Social Security Administration office in Winder. Enlarge photo Manuel Bojorquez, Channel 2 Action News A security guard at a Social Security

Happy National Guide Dog Month!

2011-09-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

Eva LaRue and Omar Miller for National Guide Dog Month from Natural Balance on Vimeo.

Upcoming Service Dog Training Seminars

2011-09-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

PREVENTING PROBLEMS in Puppyhood: a 3-day seminar Preventing Problems in Puppyhood 2011 A three day seminar for Puppy Class Instructors & Service Puppy Raisers November 11, 12, 13, 2011 www.regonline.com/preventingproblemsinpuppyhood2011 The majority of behaviour problems that are seen in adult dogs can be easily prevented during

Bark Magazine Covers Service Dog Fraud

2011-08-16T17:16:00.000-07:00

Service Vest ControversyEBay listing causes anger Karen B. London, PhD | August 9, 2011 A listing on eBay for a vest similar to this one ignited a controversy. No matter what you want to buy, eBay probably has it. Looking for an 1897 Pocket Kodak camera? What about a

Happy International Assistance Dog Week!

2011-08-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

Happy International Assistance Dog Week! All this week events are taking place globally to celebrate the work assistance/service dogs and educate people about what a service dog does. The Willamette Valley Assistance Dog Club is celebrating with a Facebook post-a-thon and community information tables.

News: Unleashed Dogs Hassle Service Dog

2011-08-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

Summertime on the Idaho State University campus is very relaxing. But many people who are relaxing with their animals on campus and see a service dog don't realize that they are stopping that dog from doing its job. Mike Riley and his service dog, Annie, are on campus from seven in the morning to nine at night almost every day, researching thousands of pages as Mike works to get his PhD in

News: Guide Dogs Encounter Blind Spot

2011-08-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

China Daily There are 13 million blind people in China, but only 34 guide dogs. China Daily has a report today on how difficult it is for these guide dogs to do their job in China. The article mostly talks about a woman in Beijing named Chen Yan who has been barred six times from taking her dog on the subway near her house. She's also been shooed away from restaurants, airplanes, and

News: Banned breeds are no more aggressive than others, new study finds

2011-08-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Every study completed to date has found breed specific legislation to be completely ineffective in reducing the incidence of dog bites. Now a study of pet dogs in Spain published in The Journal of Veterinary Behavior, offers new insight into why. The study found that the so called dangerous breeds simply behave no differently from dogs in general when it comes to behaviors likely to lead

Happy 21st ADA!

2011-07-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Happy 21st to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! Find out what the ADA Does and it's history at ADA Anniversary Resources.

New Mobility Magazine:Service Dogs: Making the Grade

2011-07-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Making the Grade Many people don’t realize that not all dogs have the calm attentive temperament it takes to become a service dog. “If the dog doesn’t have the basic personality and hardwiring, it just won’t work,” says Jeanine Konopelski, director of marketing for Canine Companions for Independence in Santa Rosa, Calif. “To increase our success rate here at CCI we have our own breeding

Tails of Seattle | Veterinary Q&A: A killer called 'bloat ' | Seattle Times Newspaper

2011-07-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this great article on bloat complete with video detailed diagrams and explanations. Many of the common breeds for service dogs can be deep chested and as such prone to bloat. Knowing the signs couls save your partner's life! Tails of Seattle | Veterinary Q&A: A killer called 'bloat ' | Seattle Times Newspaper

News: DOJ Status Report on Enforcing the ADA Released

2011-06-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Department of Justice (DOJ) recently released a status report detailing their efforts to enforce Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In this report there are 14 instances involving the denial of access to services or discrimination against a person with a disability because they were accompanied by a service animal (dog) during a period from July 2010- September 2010. On July 19, 2010,

Cabbies arrested after refusing blind passenger | WTNH.com Connecitcut

2011-06-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

Windsor Locks, Conn (WTNH) - State police have arrested two taxi cab drivers at Bradley International Airport for allegedly refusing to accept a blind man and his service dog as a paying fare, and then refusing to leave the taxi cab line at the airport.Read More

News: Service dog attacked on walk with owner

2011-06-13T00:07:00.000-07:00

Joan Jackson was taking her usual daily walk in Santa Clara last week with her hearing dog, Wrigley, while the family cat, Tuxedo, trotted along behind them. Jackson, 70, who is deaf, didn't see or hear the big white dog that bolted from a driveway and lunged for poor Wrigley. Tuxedo saw it and raced back home. But Jackson, who retired as garden editor of the Mercury News in 2001, looked

News: Iowa attorney general files lawsuit -Service Dog Fundraising Scam

2011-06-03T21:53:00.000-07:00

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa attorney's general's office has filed a lawsuit against an Arizona company, accusing it of making false statements to solicit funds from Iowans to help people with disabilities. Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller says Friday a caller seeking money on behalf of Americans with Disabilities LLC, of Phoenix, falsely claimed he was blind and seeking a guide dog; that he

Healthy Dogs don't Stink

2011-06-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

Bad odor is just as important to pay attention to as any other symptom. The number one rule when faced with a smelly dog is to look for and deal directly with the underlying problem, not to find a product that will mask the odor or to relegate your dog to the back yard. Dawg Business: It's Your Dog's Health!: Symptoms To Watch For In Your Dog: Bad Odor Shilo at her worst smells like a dusty

A Month of Movies: Wretches & Jabbers along with Sprout Film Festival

2011-05-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

I love movies as people who knows me will heartily agree. One thing I especially love about movies seeing my experiences and the experiences of my fellow members of the global cross disability portrayed with the full breadth and depth of the human experience that it is on screen. What does this have to do with service dogs you ask? Well, my town participated in 100 cities.One night for Autism.I

Bark in the Park: A tail waggin' time with treats!

2011-05-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

Melissa, Shilo, Leslie, and Cammy going though the information booths. Bark in the Park was a blast! While the final numbers both people and dogs participating and how much money was raised in total is still being totaled; the members of Willamette Valley Assistance Dog Club raised $345 for Greenhill. Besides a nice 2k walk on a lovely Sunday morning. The dogs also got to try their paw at

News: FDA Recalls Pig Ears Dog Treats

2011-05-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. Recalls Pig Ears for Pet Treats Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk Contact: Company 217-465-4001 Media Contact Dan Curry 312-970-1016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 3, 2011 - Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. of Paris, IL is recalling Pig Ears for Pet Treats because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and

News: China start a Hearing dog program

2011-05-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday marks Help-the-Disabled Day in China. The day aims to raise awareness of the plight faced by the country's 80 million people living with disabilities. The deaf and people with impaired hearing account for about a quarter of this figure. To mark the day, Beijing established its first hearing dog training center. The trained canines alert their owners to important sounds, such as doorbells,

Internet in an Uproar over Service Dog Fraud

2011-05-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

Service dog fraud is becoming a bigger problemService dogs are invaluable companions to people with disabilities. These trained animals guide blind people across the street, keep children with autism from wandering away, help provide support for those with problems walking, etc. But according to this article from The Seattle Times more and more pet owners are committing service dog fraud.

Commentary on Autism Tether or Anchor Dog Video

2011-05-17T00:31:00.000-07:00

This video is of a dog being trained to work as a tether or anchor dog for a child with autism. The video shows many red flags about this type of training, and sadly none of the adults in the background of the video do anything more than laugh at the child's mounting frustration and nothing to assist the dog.There are several very scary points where I was afraid for the safety of the child and

Shilo Shines in More Than Disability Video

2011-05-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Shilo and I recently assisted a UO Journalism student with a class project. The video Shilo and I working together. More than a Disability from Ethos Magazine on Vimeo.

News: National Association of Guide Dog Association Launches Innovative Hotline

2011-05-14T12:43:00.001-07:00

The National Association of Guide Dog Users (NAGDU), has launched an innovative new service. The NAGDU Education & Advocacy Hotline not only offers information about the legal rights of individuals who use service animals, it offers the option to speak with an advocate who is trained to resolve access denials. According to the new federal guidelines that took effect on March 15, 2011, a service

News: Service Dogs Teach Educators About Disabilities

2011-05-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

May 14, 2011 Many disabled people say that life without their service animals is unthinkable. And while public institutions are required to admit service animals without question, some public schools claim they cannot handle the disruption of a dog in a busy classroom. Disabled students are hoping new federal guidelines will

News: Service Dogs Under Protection?

2011-05-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

By Gia Vang EUGENE, Ore. -- When a service dog is injured by a dangerous dog, the City of Eugene doesn't do much about it. But that could soon change after the City Council takes up the existing animal code on Monday. The current ordinance doesn't distinguish service dogs from other breeds. So, if service dogs get hurt by another dog, staff say they're not as protected as they should be.Read

Shilo does Bark in the Park 2011

2011-05-09T17:13:00.000-07:00

Shilo, a rescued dog running to raise funds for pets still waiting to be rescued at Greenhill Humane Society! In a week of fundraising, we have raised $190.60! All the money raised is going to care for homeless pets. Find out out more about Bark in the Park and make a Donation Today!

Vote for Summit Assistance Dogs to receive a Toyota Car for Good

2011-04-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Summit is an amazing Assistance Dog organization that does whatever it takes to support their teams including coming all the way to Eugene, OR from Anacortes, WA to follow up on Shilo and my progress six months after placement - that's a distance of 728 mile round trip at a cost of $114 (and rising every day)!

New Service Dog Partnership Memoir: A Dog Named Slugger

2011-04-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I ran across a press release for this book today. I can wait to read it and add it to my dogbrary (otherwise know as my dog book library)! ExcerptI followed Vicki, mine and Slugger’s teacher, into the building’s cool basement. Several dozen folks awaited us there. A woman in a plaid skirt and crisp white blouse ushered us warmly to the front of the room. She addressed her

Pet First Aid Month April

2011-04-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

April is Pet First Aid Month! This year's there is Pets & People Staying Healthy Together. As service dog partners we ask our canine partners to accompany us nearly everywhere and in do so they may come across situations where we as handlers need to either be able to administer first aid or instruct someone in the proper dog first aid approach called for in the situation. In 14

Here's a Happy Dog to Brighten Your Day

2011-04-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

We hope your day was this good! Nothing's better than hangin' with your best friend!

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day everyone! I pulled the following except from the SDAWL archives. Celebrating Earth Day: Earth Friendly Products for Service Dogs I try to be as environmentally conscience as I can with the supplies and gear I use and buy for Shiloh, while keeping in mind my very real budget concerns. I recently had to switch from Organix, an organic (definition of organic from the USDA) dog

News::Breed-Specific Causes of Death in Dogs Revealed in Landmark Study

2011-04-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

ScienceDaily (Apr. 19, 2011) — Dog owners and veterinarians have long relied on a mix of limited data and anecdotal evidence to assess which breeds are at risk of dying from various conditions, but a new University of Georgia study provides a rare and comprehensive look at causes of death in more than 80 breeds. Read More from Science Daily article Ready the study-Mortality in North American

Shilo and Cammy Meet Ian Dunbar!

2011-04-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

The girls scramble to get to Ian! I was very lucky to be able to scrape together enough money to attend one day of a three day lecture series put on by Dr. Ian Dunbar called "Science Based Dog Training with Feeling." While I would have loved to go to all three days, it just wasn't in the budget. Therefore I chose the day focused on Lure & Reward training. I learned and was reminded of a lot,

Notes: SDAWL Tweets!

2011-04-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just want to let world know by keeping it Short and Sweet in a Tweet! That's right Shilo and I are tweeting now, follow us at http://twitter.com/SDAWL!

Disability Law Lowdown covers Service Animals

2011-04-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

Disability Law Lowdown 48 - Service Animals Pt 1 This podcast discusses the definition of service animal, changes under the new proposed regulations, and how service animals are treated under Titles I, II, and II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (Running time is 12:42, filesize is 11.7MB) Listen to show: Disability Law Lowdown 48 - Service Animals Pt 1 Disability Law Lowdown 49 -

Social Networking to Save Money on Things Your Service Dog Needs

2011-04-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

By now most of us are probably getting deals via email, text messaging, facebook, and iphone apps from our favorite vendors of all kinds of items and services we use regularly. I, recently, signed up for a couple free services called Living Social and Groupon offering one day deals for all kinds of services in my area (and around the world) at up to 90% the regular price; and being a person who

Happy Autism Awareness Month!

2011-04-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

April is Autism Awareness Month! Autism is on of many, many disabilities that service dogs can be trained to assist with. I have written several posts on Autism and Service dogs I hope you will read this month: Autism Awareness Month: Featured Links News: Exploring the Health Benefits of Pets Autism Awareness Month: Watch Temple Grandin's Eugene, OR PresentationAutism Awareness Month: Research

New Definition of A Service Animal in Effect Today!

2011-03-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

After more that two years of discussions, advocating, and debating the clarified definition of what is a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the new rules including the new definition of what constitutes a service animal go in effect today! Read the Amended sections of Title II of the ADA (the word service animal appears in this document 226 times!) These provisions

Puget Sound Assistance Dog Club Conference June

2011-03-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

"It Doesn't Have to be a Mountain- Simple Solutions for Service Dog Issues" Conference Registration Form Saturday , June 18, 2011 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM The Inn at Gig Harbor 3211 56th St. NW Gig Harbor, WA The Assistance Dog Club of Puget Sound welcomes you to a day of discussion and the sharing of information. The conference will open with a presentation on Vaccinations, Parasite Control and Lumps

Sometimes You Just Need a Break

2011-03-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

Shilo playing with Luna a CC'd dog from Guide Dogs for the Blind Shilo and Cammy enjoying bones at the cabin Shilo and Cammy bring their now less messy bones inside the cabin Cammy really love her bone! Shilo has many uses for her paws, but holding bones is by far most important!

Think Before You Speak-End the R-Word Day

2011-03-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Words do hurt and some words are meant to hurt, undermine, separate, and make people seem something less than human thereby making cruelty okay. Not only is the R-word not okay, but any word or phrase that carries with it the implication that the person is by definition something less than a human deserving of respect is not okay. My pledge is to Think before I speak. Do I really need to use the

News: Updat CCI Dog Elon- Appeal Denied

2011-02-25T22:27:00.000-08:00

Appeal denied, service dog will not be returned to Utah man Published: Friday, Feb. 25, 2011 4:16 p.m. MST By Viviane Vo-Duc, Deseret News SALT LAKE CITY — A man who had his companion dog taken away will not be getting him back any time soon. Dr. Gael Yonnet’s service dog Elon was taken away a

News: Leapin' Lizards! Service Animals Are Multiplying Like Doggone Rabbits Skippy the Iguana Keeps His Owner Calm, But Therapy Dog Maxx Is an Impostor

2011-02-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

By ANN ZIMMERMAN Rhonda Kimmel's 11-year-old West Highland terrier, Maxx, goes with her everywhere—to the mall, restaurants and even to the bank. Cosmie Silfa relies on an unusual companion to help him stay clean and sober: Skippy, a four-year-old iguana. But changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act could decertify Skippy as an official service animal. WSJ's

News: Update on CCI Dog Elon

2011-02-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

A reader forwarded this to me: cci.org | Connect | Donate | Subscribe | Stories NATIONAL

News: Today- California Department of Consumer Affairs Offers Webcast, Panel About ADA Service Animals

2011-02-23T09:42:00.001-08:00

California Department of Consumer Affairs Offers Webcast, Panel About ADA Service Animals Written by Dan Oney February 22, 2011 The State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind will host a conference Wednesday, February 23, in Sacramento to discuss impending changes to the legal definition of service animals in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The new rules, which become law on

Book Review: Modern Dog Magazine-Food Allergies 101

2011-02-17T20:07:00.000-08:00

Modern Dog Magazine has a great article this month of food allergies in dogs... what causes allergies, preventing allergies, spotting them, and what to do when your dogs is miserable with allergies. My first service dog Bastien was allergic to wheat, something I discovered through trial and error when he was young. Poor thing was itchy, developed hot spots with anything more than just small dog

Service Dogs in College Residence Halls or Domitories

2011-02-16T21:30:00.000-08:00

This article comes from a question from a reader. Service dogs are meant to allow for greater independence; college being the first time a lot of young adult with disabilities are away from home and familiar supports is a common time for people to want a service dog. Preparing for, caring for, and living with service dog in a dorm/residence hall situation is no easy task; while some of the

News: Salmon Poisoning on the Rise

2011-02-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

ROSEBURG, Ore. -- The salmon run is taking place right now, but if you're planning on casting your line, you may want to think twice about bringing your favorite four-legged friend with you. Dogs all across the county have been falling ill from eating fish. Raw salmon and other ocean going fish can carry a parasite called Rickettsia, more commonly known as 'Salmon Poisoning.' The parasite can

News: Pa. committee clears bill for service dog protection

2011-02-09T16:39:00.000-08:00

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) - Dog owners could face civil and criminal penalties if their pets kill or maim a service animal under legislation approved Tuesday by the state House Judiciary Committee. House Bill 165 allows for fines of up to $1,000 and jail time of up to two years, and would require those convicted to pay veterinary or replacement costs. Read More

News:Heartworm preventive efficacy study results revealed at NAVC

2011-02-04T16:34:00.000-08:00

One preventive found to be 100 percent effective against Dirofilaria immitis strain. Jan 18, 2011 DVM NEWSMAGAZINE #htmlarticlebody div { display: none; }#htmlarticlebody #page1 { display: block; } Historically, heartworm disease has been effectively prevented in dogs by using available preventives. However, recent research indicates that some field isolates and laboratory strains of

News: CCI Takes Service Dog After Numerous Safety Violations

2011-02-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

Video Courtesy of KSL.com Man's companion dog taken away over danger disputeFebruary 2nd, 2011 @ 10:22pmBy ksl.comSALT LAKE CITY -- A snowboarding accident changed his life nearly five years ago. But thanks to a service dog, Dr. Gael Yonnet got his life back. Then last week everything changed. That's when the organization that partnered him with Elon, a yellow Labrador retriever, took the

Sit ‘n Stay Global Releases Pet Safety Protocols for Service Animals and Cabin Pets on Planes

2011-02-02T12:30:00.000-08:00

Sit 'n Stay Global has developed safety protocols that extend the usual safety procedures for humans to Service Animals and Cabin Pets traveling on board commercial flights. Now Service Animals will be as safe as their human companions. The new online publication teaches you how to travel safely with your pet in the cabin, what equipment will help and how to find the equipment, all in one

The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

2011-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs due to concerns that one or more bags within the lot may have been potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall. Read more Essential Details: 8-oz bags of Hartz

Note: Seattle Commision for People with Disabilities Links to SDAWL!

2011-02-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

I was so proud to discover today that the Seattle Commission for People with Disabilities chose Service Dogs: A Way of Life as a link under their Assistance Dog Information Section! SDAWL is currently the only link in the section that focuses on the handler perspective.

Commentary: Certification- A Myth in The USA

2011-01-31T23:45:00.000-08:00

When I read this "GOLIATH is a five pound black Chihuahua, Department of Animal Services certified Assistance dog with a Canine Good Citizen Award from the American Kennel Club in Washington D.C." (from Dastardly Landlord Evicts Five Pound Service Dog On Christmas Day) I decided that this topic was beyond ripe for commentary. There is no requirement in the ADA that a service dog be certified

Sitting in the Dark No More or It's the Little Things

2011-01-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

Shiloh wheelchair pulling. From Shiloh, Summit Assistance Dog People are used to only hearing about service dogs when they do something considered heroic like call 9-1-1 or lead their person out of danger; while these events are important they usually only come to pass a few times in the span of a partnership. For myself and most other human halves of service dog, it is the everyday, ordinary

Job Interviews with a Service Dog

2011-01-03T23:23:00.000-08:00

Since being partnered with Shilo my work situation has consisted of multiple part time positions. My main position with the University Center For Excellence in Developmental Disabilities began two months after Shilo and I were partnered, so we interviewed for the job as a packaged deal. The job began with .3 time or 12 hours a week and within six months I was bumped up to.5 or 20 hours a week.

A Few Precious Pictures from the Holidays and Tips for Dogs and Kids

2010-12-30T20:47:00.000-08:00

This Christmas Shilo, me, Cammy, and my roommate Leslie were invite to my sister-in-laws parents house for Christmas Dinner. Shilo and Cammy have both been to this house several times before and always impress everyone with their, quiet, calm, yet friendly demeanor typical for a service dog. They are both also very good with children, and as such are good dogs to introduce to very young children

Laws Protect and Impose Penalties for Interferring, Injuring, or Killing Service Dogs

2010-12-27T19:58:00.000-08:00

More than half the states have laws laws on the books protecting service dogs and their handlers for interference, injury, or death caused by a person or their animal, based on a self conducted count of the results in a Google search. I have wanted to write this post for a while, but I didn't know of a good compilation until recently. I discovered the Harm to Service Animals and Criminal

Best Holiday Wishes

2010-12-21T21:18:00.000-08:00

Wishing all our Reader a Happy Holiday Season! From Christmas 2010 We hope you can spend it with those you love!

News: Kroger Pet Food Recall

2010-12-20T10:55:00.000-08:00

(CNN) -- The Kroger Co. is recalling select pet food packages from stores in 19 states fearing some of these products may contain aflatoxin, a toxic chemical byproduct that could be harmful to animals. The recall involves certain bags of Pet Pride Cat Food, Pet Pride Kitten Food, Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food, Kroger Value Cat Food and Kroger Value Chunk Food, the company said Saturday.Read More

Holiday Cautions- Tips to Keep Service Dogs and All Pets Safe During the Holidays

2010-12-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

Protecting your Pet from Holiday Dangers Remember, as the holidays approach, this is the most dangerous time of the year for our pets. The two greatest dangers are lost pets and pet poisoning.Fall and Winter HolidaysWith the fall and winter holidays come many new faces, guests and dog sitters. Each time guests enter your home pets are exposed to new levels of stress, both positive and

News: Career Connection Series: “What can be done to make service dogs easier to accept in the workplace?”

2010-12-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

Career Connection Series: “What can be done to make service dogs easier to accept in the workplace?” By Guest Blogger Linda Carter Batiste, J.D., Principal Consultant, Job Accommodation Network This is a great question, and it’s one that we’re hearing a lot at the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) as more and more people with disabilities start using service animals. In the past, service animals

Dreams About Service Dog

2010-12-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

So it's pretty common knowledge that our dreams are influenced by the things that are important or occupying large portions of our lives; therefore, it should come as no surprise that I regularly dream about my service dogs past and present. Unfortunately, these dreams usually come in the form of nightmares where something bad happens to my service dog and I can't do anything about it or no one

Pets and Santa Claus

2010-12-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

No matter whether you are working with a service dog or a service dog in training the local malls are offering pictures with Santa Claus! Valley River Center: Pet Night with Santa Monday, December 13, 2010 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMBring your special pet to visit Santa! December 13th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm Pets must be on a leash or in a cage. Gateway Mall

From the Archives: Christmas

2010-12-11T13:05:00.000-08:00

Gifts Service Dog Partners and their Service Dog will love No matter what holiday puts you in the festive mood, getting the right gift for your four-legged companion can boggle the mind. This can be especially true for the friends and family who may want to thank your service dog for the service and energy they have brought into your life. Read More

News: Romania’s first guide dog shut out from city

2010-12-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

Golden Labrador Chloe helps blind city resident Gabi Nicolescu move around the streets of Bucharest – but shops, hotels, taxis and buses ban them from going further Around the blocks, streets and parks of Bucharest, 51 year-old Gabi Nicolescu is walking the first guide dog for the blind in Romania – but no shop, hotel, cafe, taxi or bus will allow access to his three-year old Golden

International Day of People with Disabilities: Service Dogs Around the World

2010-12-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

Happy International Day of People with Disabilities! My Favorite! Simple and True!

International Day of People with Disabilities This Friday

2010-11-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

So, this Friday is International Day of People with Disabilities and as a part of my day job we are encouraging everyone to show their pride and support of people with disabilities by wearing purple. This a day to be seen and heard around the world letting people see through a sea of purple how many of us live and support people with disabilities enjoying all basic human rights. How about it,

From the Archives: Thanksgiving with a service dog

2010-11-22T18:05:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving: A Time for Family, Friends, Training, and Caution As many of us prepare to reunited with family and friends this Thanksgiving, it important to prepare our service dogs (and ourselves) for all the temptations, changes in schedule, new people and situations that come with family gatherings. The ASPCA offers these basic safety tips for Thanksgiving. Service dogs and their

News: College Bound Canines

2010-11-21T16:48:00.000-08:00

POLAND — Poland Regional High School has seven newcomers who will attend classes full time, join after-school activities and, eventually, go off to college. As long as they sit, stay and don't bark. Starting this fall, the high school will host seven service-dogs-in-training. The six puppies and one adult dog will be the constant companions of seven students who will care for and train them

Say What? Maintaince Training for Service Dogs

2010-11-20T23:11:00.000-08:00

Anniversaries and follow-up visits have a way of showing you how far you have come along with anything you may have let side;however, inadvertently. We received high praise from Wendy at Summit for how well our public access manners and tasks have been maintained, though, I admitted that the emergency phone retrieve has gotten dropped since we no longer have a land line. I really must work on

Book Review: MAKING THE MOVE TO MANAGING YOUR OWN PERSONAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES (PAS): A Toolkit for Youth With Disabilities Transitioning to Adulthood

2010-11-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

MAKING THE MOVE TO MANAGING YOUR OWN PERSONAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES (PAS): A Toolkit for Youth With Disabilities Transitioning to Adulthood This in-depth 69 page guide covers this ins and outs of personal assistants for youth with disabilities utilizing the stories of youth with disabilities to illustrate topics related to utilizing, hiring, and selecting personal assistants. Pages 10-12 talk about

Halloween: Little Red Riding Hood and The not so Big Bad Wolf

2010-11-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great Halloween! We had a wonderful time! My roommate and I are both very beginning machine sewers and we decided it would be fun to make costumes this years using things we already had combined with things made from fabric pieces brought in a huge bag from Goodwill. I think the costumes turned out splendidly. Cammy and Leslie went as Hansel and Greddel and Shiloh and I went

Anniversary: Two Year Follow-Up

2010-11-02T00:15:00.000-07:00

Shiloh and I have been a team for two years now and as a part of maintaining the health, safety, and working standards that I agreed to when Summit matched Shiloh and I I traveled to Anacortes, WA to complete a two year follow up and Public Access Test. Having owner trained Bastien, my first service dog, I wasn't sure what to expect and I tend to be overly perfectionist about things really

Cast Your Vote November 2, 2010

2010-10-26T16:02:00.000-07:00

With elections just around the corner, Shiloh and I want to remind all human halves of service dog teams to vote on November 2. Does your state need laws protecting Service Dogs from being interfered with or injured? Does your state better awareness of access for people with disabilities partnered with service dogs? You human partners can ensure your voices are (or will be) heard on these and

Anniversary: Two Years, A Wonderous Journey

2010-10-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

This October 17th marks two years that Shiloh and I have been a team living life and all its surprises together! In the last two years we have gone from complete strangers to each others rocks of Gibraltar. Shiloh and I have done so many things together that it is hard for me to list them all on the greatest hits parade we have: Moved twice Attended weddings, birthdays and baby showers

Sometimes People Do Get it Right!

2010-10-14T20:56:00.000-07:00

Snoopy Happy Dance The other day I stopped at the little coffee counter where I work and while I was waiting for my drink this young woman was admiring Shiloh from a distance. I was floored when she addressed me before Shiloh and then she politely asked if she could pet her. I believe in rewarding people for behaviors I appreciate, so I said of course!

News: Celebrate World Animal Day all week with Walgreens and Delta Society!

2010-10-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

For one week starting Monday, October 4th, you'll be able to put your pet on the cover of a magazine, save money and support Delta Society all at the same time! From October 4th thru 9th, Walgreen's Photo Centers will be offering their 8x10 "magazine cover" templates for $3.99 (regular price $5.99) when you use their coupon code MAGSALE. Choose from dozens of options including "Dog Fancy," "

News: Today in Corvallis

2010-10-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do today? Want to support a good cause?Osborn Aquatic Center’s 6th Annual “Dog Day” fundraiser for OAC and the Heartland Humane Society. This exclusive event one day a year turns Otter Beach and the outdoor pools into a Fenced Dog Park for three 90-minute sessions. It happens just before the outdoor pool is drained for maintenance. Dogs of all ages and

Assistance Dog United Campaign

2010-09-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

While reading some information for my day job I stumbled across mention of the Assistance Dog United Campaign! This is complete news to me as I'm sure it will be to many of you. Below is a short description of campaign taken from their site ( the links and bold face font were my additions): The Assistance Dog United Campaign (ADUC) is a health and human welfare organization which provides

News: Disability Community Candidate's Forum- October 6, 2010

2010-09-24T14:30:00.000-07:00

All you Washington State readers don't miss this chance to mingle with candidates and discuss issues important to service dog partners. Disability Community Candidate's Forum Sponsored by: Seattle Commission for People with disAbilities, Alliance of People with Disabilities, the State Independent Living Council, and the University Heights Community Center Association Date: Wednesday,

Sunday at the Library

2010-09-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

My roommate and I are attempting to live a life less chaotic by doing certain chores and errands on the same day every week. We have been doing our basic house upkeep and shopping schedule for about three weeks now (oops just remembered the load of laundry in the washer), leaving our apartment cleaner and leading us to discover Friday evening wine tasting at our neighborhood Trader Joe's! This

Webinar: Flying with Service Animals: Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities at 32,000 Feet

2010-09-14T10:03:00.001-07:00

Webinar: Flying with Service Animals: Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities at 32,000 Feet September 27, 2010 | 2:00 pm (EST) https://s07.123signup.com/servlet/SignUp?PG=1532435182300&Info=&P=15324351911421301700 The Association for Airline Passenger Rights (AAPR) will host an informative webinar on the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), specifically as it relates to flying with service animals.