Edison is a big help to me when I drop items. Instead of asking someone to pick up items, he’s there, which increases my independence tremendously. #day15of365
That’s a wrap! Edison and I had a great trip to Boston visiting our friend and his NEADS Service Dog, Cappie. Edison is such a seasoned traveler and gives me so much freedom to go out and about on my own. #day16of365
One of Edison’s commands is “better go now.” It’s not as simple as it sounds. Sometimes he is not too thrilled about the potty options that I give him. This picture was taken on one of our days that we were in New York City where there are not too many good spots for him to go.Eventually I found a decent spot but it sometimes it can take quite a while. #day17of365
After a long day, I always invite Edison up on my bed for a snuggle before I go to sleep. He is not allowed to sleep on my bed at night with me for safety reasons but he happily jumps up when I give him permission! #day18of365
As stated in the ADA, a Service Dog is allowed to accompany their owner wherever they go. That includes restaurants, medical appointments, grocery stores, etc. The dogs and/or person can not be denied access into an establishment. The only time when it is acceptable to ask a dog to leave Is if they’re not behaving appropriately in public – i.e. barking, growling, biting, etc. It is not appropriate for the general public or store owners to ask what purpose the dog has or tasks the dog provides. In this photo Edison is quietly lying under the exam table waiting for me to get my blood drawn. #day19of365
Today I want to point out Edison’s head collar. No, it is not a muzzle, but a Gentle Leader. Similar to a horse halter. It guides Edison and gives him cues as to which direction I want him to go. It also reduces his pulling. It is part of Edison’s working gear and makes a huge difference for me if he is not wearing it. After our workday is done, I take it off him and he never wears it when we are at home. #day20of365
In this photo Edison is in his “place”. It signifies a location that I have chosen for the times when I need him to settle for an extended period of time. In my house he has a “place” that is underneath the table in my kitchen. When I give him the “place” command he will go to that location and stay there until I release him. When we are out and about this command is also useful because I can create a “place” anywhere that is needed and he will stay there until I tell him it is OK to get up. That way I know he is stationary until I need him. Keep in mind, he never finds this command restrictive, but rather, finds comfort in knowing that he has a direction as to where I need him to be. #day21of365
When Edison and I are out and about, sometimes the checkout counter is very high, making it difficult for me to reach items. I can give Edison the command “up” and he will position himself like this, retrieve the item and hand it to me. #day22of365
This afternoon I Edison and I were walking in a crosswalk and one of my gloves dropped. I proceeded to tell Edison to “fetch” and we were on our way in less than 30 seconds! If Edison wasn’t with me I wouldn’t have been able to pick up the glove on my own. In that moment Edison was a true hero. Such a small task for some, but difficult for me. #day23of365
Dessert is served! People always ask me, “Does Edison ever get any treats?” My answer is always, “of course!” It’s very important to limit human food, but he does get a quarter cup of fruits and vegetables every day. On the menu tonight was apples and carrots. He loves it! #day24of365
Edison and I are about to have some tea and crumpets. I’ll be drinking some Harney Teas chamomile in my NEADS cup, and Edison will have some banana with peanut butter (another special treat for him.) Both of our tummies are about to be very happy! (No, he won’t be getting all that is on the plate, although I’m sure he would love that.) #day25of365
I’ve really loved doing puzzles lately. Edison is never fazed by any pieces that may fall on the floor. The only thing I do need to watch for is his very waggy tail when he walks near it! #day26of365
This weekend Edison and I went to Camelback ski area. Neither of us actually went skiing but we thoroughly enjoyed hanging out in the lodge. I love striking up conversation about Edison and, of course, everyone around was impressed with how well behaved he was. #day27of365
When I’m in public, I sometimes get comments that Edison looks so squished and uncomfortable. But that’s not the case. Wherever we are Edison makes himself comfortable and is trained to be able to settle in tight spaces. And don’t worry, if I feel that it is not a good spot for him, I will find another. His comfort is, of course, a high priority for me! #day28of365
When it’s time for Edison to work, he has three components that he needs as part of his uniform. From left to right is his leash, cape (or vest) and Gentle Leader. Those three items signal to Edison that he is working. He is very playful but once he is dressed in his gear, it’s all business! #day29of365
Every once in a while, I give Edison the permission to “say hello” to another dog. When I give him that command he knows it is okay for him to socialize. With his red cape on, he is in work mode so it is just a quick hello and then he returns to work. #day30of365
I want some water! Edison has that covered. He fetched my water bottle and brought it to me. But first I gave him the command “hold” so I could get a good grasp of it. When I was ready I gave him the command “give.” This kind of command sequence is always important so that he can complete tasks successfully. And...can’t forget a treat! #day31of36