An Actually Realistic Service Dog Training Timeline for Owner Trainers

Have you heard that service dog training takes two years from start to finish?

It's an estimate most trainers and organizations use for all kinds of conversations.

But what they don’t tell you is th...

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Is your service dog naturally alerting?

"My dog does XYZ when I have an episode. Is that a natural alert?"

As a scent detection specialist, I get asked this question ALL THE TIME from service dog handlers who are hoping for natural alerts....

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Ideal Traits for Public Access Service Dog Candidates

Public access work is a difficult ask for any dog.

But selecting a dog who fits the ideal traits to be able to cope with the stressors of public work is the best way to find success.

When researchin...

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Rescue Dogs for Service Work: Important Considerations

The more I work with service dog teams, the more my perspective on service dog breeds, temperament, and ideal prospects change.

I used to feel strongly that ethical breeders were the best route to go...

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Service Dog Laws and Regulations in the USA

Today's topic is a bit dry, but SO important.

Service dog laws and regulations in the United States are always being talked about incorrectly. Thankfully, there are a ton of resources available to he...

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Service Dogs for Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Relief

Throat closing up, tight chest, pouring sweat, can’t breathe, GOTTA GET OUT OF HERE panic.

I live with this too. 

It’s part of my anxiety disorder, but it’s also a part of my neurotype (autism).

I ...

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Service Dogs for POTS: The Essential Guide

Imagine you are getting ready for work. You get up to go wash your face or brush your teeth, and immediately your vision clouds, things go black, and next thing you remember, you are waking up on the ...

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Why You Shouldn't Scent Train Your Service Dog

I bet the headline shocked you a bit. Yes, I scent train service dogs as my primary career and passion in life.

It’s something I love and find so fun.

But I really don’t recommend it.

Here is why I d
...

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How to Train Your Own Service Dog

If you came here from my How to Get a Service Dog blog, welcome!

Today we are going to learn all about owner training and the process in the United States.

Before I share my general progression for ...

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Service Dogs for Narcolepsy: The Ultimate Guide

Narcolepsy service dogs can change the lives of their people in so many different ways. Along with the benefits a dog along can bring, service dogs can add tasks to mitigate the symptoms those with na...

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