I won't do bitework with Roger because of the therapy work and because of the preschool.
I suspect that's a fairly common approach with the working dogs, more of an either/or (either protection work, or therapy/service work). In reality (not perception), it might be more a reflection of the owners personality and orientation rather than an indication of the dogs versatility. Unfortunately, perceptions rule when it comes to service work, though.
It's interesting that many of the breeders of working dogs market their pups as being multi-talented - they'll show pics on the websites of the dogs attacking a decoy in one picture, and cuddling with a toddler in the next. The breeders will market the dogs as having an "off switch," describing high drives for protection work, but the ability to turn off the drives and curl up to watch TV with the family. Maybe this is after 3-4 hours of rigorous workout and training?
A dog has alot of friends because he wags his tail instead of his mouth.
I bet your heart swelled with pride in your Drift.
Gosh, you know it!!!! She was just so awesome. Going into a strange building with strange smells and strange people... she acted like it was no big deal. Not a ruffle.
Today she did even better.. there was a training meeting going on in the conference room with about 20 people. The bathroom is conveniently located accross the hall from my office, and each time someone went to use the facilities, they also stopped to see the new dog. Drift greeted everyone with a smile (my co-worker watched her today, and she said, "you know that dog actually smiles." Yep, I know.)
I don't think it's a coincidence that the kids have been much better behaved the last two days either. I am sure all hell will break loose tomorrow though... Drift has to stay home because I have an off site meeting and she can't come.
Thank you all for the great comments, and I will keep you all posted on her progress. I really am proud of her.. she just keeps amazing me!!!
Tammy Moore Webboard User Reg: 01-14-2010
Posts: 1564
Loc: USA
Offline
Kelly, I am glad you are enjoying the visits with Drift, I am sure now that you have seen the positive impact he has had on the teens, Drift will make many more visits. Is there someone that is monitoring and recording, noting changes, in the teen’s behavior with Drift there?
There are so many aspects of “pet therapy,” which someone may become involved, it doesn’t always have to be a touch and feel visit, but can also include show and tell visits, this can
include showing those you are visiting your dog’s awesome OB, Marker sessions with an audience, unusual tricks that your dog can do, and explanations of the breed and what they are bred for. I have been in many different facilities over the years, and used other pets, such as rabbits, goats, ducks, chickens, and horses. All have been accepted with great enthusiasm. Many Military hospitals appreciate demos with working/sport dogs.
It sounds like Drift will be enjoying his job there!
Drift is actually going to be a little more than a therapy dog. She will come to work with me most days, and will actually be used in individual counseling sessions with clients (when the treatment team feels she will be beneficial). I am teaching the therapist how to handle her (various commands, etc), and Drift is learning to work independent of me.
As an aside, one of the kids yesterday earned a prize that was "15 minutes of free time with staff" and the staff he chose was Drift Two days and she's already the favorite staff!!!
Tammy Moore Webboard User Reg: 01-14-2010
Posts: 1564
Loc: USA
Offline
Quote:
Drift is actually going to be a little more than a therapy dog. She will come to work with me most days, and will actually be used in individual counseling sessions with clients (when the treatment team feels she will be beneficial). I am teaching the therapist how to handle her (various commands, etc), and Drift is learning to work independent of me.
Very neat Kelly!
Drift would be claasified as an AAT dog. It is always interesting to see what progress individuals make mentally/physically when animals are included in their therapy.
Looking forward to hearing all of his stories!
When purchasing any product from Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. it is understood
that any and all products sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. are sold in Dunn
County Wisconsin, USA. Any and all legal action taken against Leerburg Enterprises,
Inc. concerning the purchase or use of these products must take place in Dunn
County, Wisconsin. If customers do not agree with this policy they should not
purchase Leerburg Ent. Inc. products.
Dog Training is never without risk of injury. Do not use any of the products
sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. without consulting a local professional.
The training methods shown in the Leerburg Ent. Inc. DVD’s are meant
to be used with a local instructor or trainer. Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. cannot
be held responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
Copyright 2010 Leerburg® Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. All photos and content on leerburg.com are part of a registered copyright owned by Leerburg Enterprise, Inc.
By accessing any information within Leerburg.com, you agree to abide by the
Leerburg.com Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Re: Drift's first day of work
Top
(my co-worker watched her today, and she said, "you know that dog actually smiles." Yep, I know.) 
Previous Topic
Index
Next Topic.jpg)
