From the Atlantic: "Services Cliff" at age 21 for people with autism
Pawsitivity's mission focuses on helping children with autism at a critical stage in life...because at age 21, most kiddos "age out" of a lot of services:
https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2019/02/lack-services-adults-autism/582586/
-Pointed out by the wonderful Heather Christopherson at Heather Christopherson and Associates.
“Good Dog!” vs “Yes!” (Video)
When we cue the dog to do something (like Sit), and then say “Yes,” we then give her a treat. Julie likes to use the dog training phrase, “If you say it, pay it.” However, if the handler’s hands are full, or something, and can’t give treats, we just use the phrase “Good girl!” as a reward. (Then she’ll know that she did it right, but there’s no treat coming).
Pawsitivity loves you!
Just a fun post with a psychiatric service dog in training, and one who is training to help a child with autism.
Zen Mat, used when having dinner, or when dog is getting over-excited.
This elevated bed is made by Kuranda.
Practicing loading and unloading (into and out of the car)
Lexi has practiced traveling with crate in the car, and the back of a SUV, and this is the car with the distraction of snow. Good dog!
Haven’s boy reads to her! (Video)
Update from Haven’s boy (who has Landau-Kleffner Syndrome, which somewhat like autism). This is after he really practiced reading (sounding out words) for 15 minutes, then he wanted to read to Haven.
Incredible video about police and what they go through
From retired police officer Steve Warneke comes an an incredible presentation about PTSD, LEDS, and what these brave police officers go through daily.
Pawsitivity and Autism Service Dogs on TV!
Daniel the service dog in training visited the state capitol to hear about a bill to make the labrador retriever the state dog. Pawsitivity was the designated charity in this bill's promotion.
Lovely carpeting for training
Palmer the service dog in training for a girl with autism is pleased that both the post office and the bank had carpeted sections. Nice!!
Bill for MN State Dog!
If you watch (or listen, or read) the news tonight, this service dog in training (Daniel) and this round pin on his vest (for MN State Dog proposal) will be on the news! The Minnesota Legislature is considering a bill to name the Minnesota State Dog as the Labrador Retriever, and they selected Pawsitivity Service Dogs to partner with this proposal! There’s even a website for it at https://www.mnstatedog.org/
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