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...What
is Handi-Dogs?
Handi-Dogs,
Inc., the oldest service dog training program in the country, was
founded Tucson in 1973. The organization was incorporated as a non-profit
community service organization in 1977.
We train people with disabilities how to train their own dogs to
become service dogs. We work with clients who have a variety of
disabilities, such as mobility problems, hearing and/or vision impairment.
We also work with people who are recovering from strokes, heart
attacks, and cancer. At Handi-Dogs, Inc., dogs learn to carry out
many practical tasks which disabled people find difficult or impossible
to do by themselves. Any size breed of dog can be trained for service
work if the dog is healthy and physically able to do the tasks required
of it. We use an easy, humane training method, known as "clicker
training", which is based on positive reinforcement.
...What
are some things that I should know?
Service
dogs have certain legal rights under the Americans with Disabilities
Act. They may accompany their owners into any public facility or
conveyance. Certified Handi-Dogs have been trained to accomplish
certain tasks and to meet high standards of behavior in public environments.
...What
other programs are offered?
- SENIORS:
If you are a senior, you can learn to train your dog to be a well-behaved
companion. You can also train your dog to do helpful tasks around
the house.
- GENERAL
PUBLIC: You can train your dog to be a well-behaved pet
in our general public classes. You will learn to train your dog
for basic obedience, how to socialize with other dogs and with
people. We also address your dog behavior concerns.
...This
sounds very noble! How can I help?
VOLUNTEERING: Handi-Dogs, Inc., offers a number of services
to the community. We demonstrate how service dogs help people with
disabilities in schools, libraries, health institutes and other
groups. Our training program has achieved extensive recognition,
and we owe a large measure of our success to the enthusiasm of our
Volunteers.
...How
do I get a membership?
Annual
membership dues are $35.00, or $5.00 for people with limited incomes.
We depend heavily on the generosity of our many friends and supporters,
and we would welcome your support.
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