Edison says, “do you need this?” I look down and he’s got that card in his mouth. He’s so in tune with what I need! He’s trained to pick up items only when given the “fetch!” command. #day136of365

Edison loves his Blue Buffalo treats that I use as “high value” treats. They aren’t used as rewards for his regular commands/tasks, but more so for accomplishing tasks while we are in busy or crowded areas. I ration a portion of his daily kibble and carry it in a waist pouch to give him as rewards throughout the day. Praise and reward for what he does is critical in order to keep him focused and motivated! #day137of365

Flashback to last year when I was an ambassador for the Abilities Expo and Edison and I met Micah D Fowler, who was the main actor from the TV show Speechless. It was a great show and also proved that acting can be inclusive to people with all abilities. #day138of365

Ahh...the fond days when Edison and I were first getting to know each other. My trainer was working with us so I could learn how to structure his playtime. He was having a blast and I absolutely loved learning about my new helper! Edison and I have been a team for about 3 years. Time flies! #day139of365

How can Edison possibly be comfortable sleeping in that position? Maybe it’s a Lab thing? #day140of365

Back in his training days....he’s such a Papa bear! Edison has such a gentle personality. When we’re together I feel like I can conquer the world! #day141of365

Edison and I had a great visit with another Service Dog that was trained by NEADS. The pups happily rested while we had lunch — exhausted from a good play. They were perfect playmates! #day142of365

It’s always fun when we run into friends! Everyone wanted to go home with an Edison365 tote. Proceeds go to NEADS to support their wonderful work training Service Dogs! #day143of365

Sleepy puppy on the job! Edison was in training to become a Service Dog starting when he was 8 weeks old. Yup, that’s right, I said 8 weeks! Training continues for 15-18 months. #day144of365

One of the tasks Edison is trained to do for me is fetch his own leash if I were to lose grip of it. First though, he is not to perform any command/task until I tell him. Also, notice his consistent eye contact with me. He knows that I dropped the leash but waits and looks at me and then retrieves it when he is given the command. #day145of365

How’s your Memorial Day Weekend going? Edison says, “Do you need to go to Lowe’s? I’ll push the cart!” #day147of365

We recently visited the Pound Ridge library. Edison thought it was a great place for him to take a snooze. — When I don’t require his assistance he is welcome to rest. He takes advantage of every opportunity. #day148of365

Edison shows he can maintain a “down, stay” while being approached by a child. When Edison is working I often hear kissing noises from people around us or people come right over to pet him without my permission. Edison is trained to ignore everything around him and maintain focus on me. But these distractions make it extremely difficult for both me and Edison, so please, when you see a Service Dog team in public, do not distract them! #day149of365

I get comments more often than not about how relaxed Edison is. When I initially applied for a Service Dog, I specifically specified that I would do best with a dog that had a very mellow temperament and could “roll with the punches.” NEADS certainly hit the bull’s-eye with that. Side note: Leaning against my wheelchair wheels is his signature comfortable position. His training helped him be extremely accustomed to my wheelchair. #day150of365

Waiting for medical appointments is not so fun but having Edison with me makes everything so much better! It’s a beautiful day outside and we are ready to enjoy the day. Happy Friday! #day151of365