Here is the list I use as a guide for others to read when I'm looking for a
service dog prospect. It helps 'others' to know what I need rather than
just saying 'I need a friendly dog to be a service dog' and maybe someone
will say they have one and it turns out to be the opposite of what I 'really
need'.
Dana and ?
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
I am in need of a Service Dog prospect!! I have listed my wants and
needs.
Some things may be able to be worked on, but temperament is the most
important thing!
Please cross post to other lists, rescues, working lists, other dobelists
or
any that may have a dobe person on it!
--male, about a year old, give or take, but no older than 18 months
--red or black with at least a docked tail--would love cropped ears but
temperament is more important
--not Alpha, but not bottom of the rung
--must show NO aggression toward any animal or any person. This is
probably
the most important quality needed because if I need help, the dog must let
people get to me. The dog will also be trained in what to do too.
--must be confident and stable, must be able to accept new sights, sounds
and smells without question. From being smushed in an elevator, having
barking snarling dogs go by, have children and adults squeal or scream and
run in fear or people come up behind us and grab him in a big hug--all of
this has happened to all my service dogs, even Sabre. Then there are the
hours we do nothing (especially in the winter) or go for long walks by
ourselves. I also travel by bus to go to the state capital to lobby on
things and also go on days trips in my van to anywhere from farms to
museums. I go to crowded street festivals, movies and out to eat. (my lab
went thru a cave with me and I bought one of those group pictures to prove
it!)
--must be motivated and be eager to please--wants to learn or help--a good
work ethic!
--must have a retrieve instinct, should allow anything to be put in its
mouth. Does he bring that toy back? A lot of his work will be picking
things up and carrying things, from paper to metal.
--needs to be mellow but ready to go when needed. a good couch potato and
'velcro dog'.
A well rounded, people oriented, confident but amiable dog!
