 |
 |
Jolyn, The assistance dogs for PD are relatively new. The dog's function is (1)to help the Parkinson patient "unfreeze" by touching or stepping lightly on the patient - usually on the foot, (2) provide stability for the patient when the patient has balance difficulty, and (3) provide help in getting up [the command is "brace" for my dog]. As you may guess from the functions, the dog must be a relatively large breed or mixture. My dog is a mixed breed from the SPCA dog pound. The shelter assured me he [Harley] was fully grown. They lied! He is strong and weighs about 80 - 85 pounds. That is probably about minimum size for a fellow my size (216 lbs., 6' 1/2" tall). Training may be done by professionals - such as the people at Chad's Ford, PA - or by the owner with help and advice from regular dog trainers. I enrolled Harley in the basic obedience class run by the local kennel club - and gave him homework to do in addition to the usual obedience school curriculum. Will Will Johnnston A.P.D.A. DelMarVA Chapter Pres. 4049 Oakland School Road Salisbury MD 21804 USA 410-543-0110 ---------- From: Jolyn Rickard <[log in to unmask]> To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Parkinson trained dog Date: Wednesday, September 29, 1999 7:03 PM Greetings List, My mother saw the Leher Newshour last night and was fascinated by the Dog that can help Parkinson's patients. My father is a PWP and is retired on disability, but not requiring constant supervision. We feel he could greatly benefit from this special companion. Can anyone point me towards more information? Best Regards, Jolyn --- "Let the righteous rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in him; let all the upright in heart praise him!" Psalm 64:10 http://www.gbgm-umc.org/monroviaumc/otm.html CCNmail for your free web-based e-mail. http://www.ccnmail.com