A seizure service dog provides our clients and their families with peace of mind and an added layer of security. Our dogs undergo training using specific scent samples collected from our clients during a seizure episode. During training, we simulate seizures to associate the scent with the event, maximizing the dog's ability to detect seizures before they occur.
Our dogs are trained to perform a "go tell" which is to go get someone & bring them back during a seizure, to alert someone nearby for assistance. The training methods vary based on the type of seizures experienced, the client's lifestyle, age, and other relevant factors. While we strive for our dogs to detect every type of seizure, achieving 100% accuracy is not feasible.
We encourage prospective clients to consider this limitation when exploring our program. Despite this, our seizure service dogs are trained to provide invaluable support and assistance during episodes, enhancing safety and peace of mind for our clients and their families
The journey for our service dogs begins with our comprehensive puppy raising program. Each dog undergoes bi-weekly testing to assess their suitability for various training programs. Our trainers meticulously handpick and temperament test every dog to ensure they are matched appropriately. Once the puppy raising phase is completed, we transition to obedience training. Here, dogs learn essential commands like heel, sit, down, auto sits, come, leave it, bed, and load up. Training occurs both at our facility and in our trainers' homes, acclimating the dogs to a home environment and easing their transition to your household. Obedience training forms the bedrock of our program, and dogs must pass a rigorous standard obedience test before progressing. We evaluate their performance on and off-leash in settings with varying levels of distraction.
The next phase is public access training, where we reinforce obedience in increasingly distracting environments. Starting in low-distraction settings like quiet stores, we gradually progress to busy shopping centers, restaurants, and office buildings. We introduce our own distractions to assess the dogs' ability to remain focused and respond appropriately. We tailor training to fit your daily routines; for example, if your child uses public transportation, we ensure the dog is trained accordingly, familiarizing them with vehicles, buses, trams, and elevators.
In the final phase, dogs are trained to alert on seizures by recognizing specific scent samples provided by our clients. They learn to detect chemical changes in the body indicative of an impending seizure, enabling them to give an alert. Once a reliable alert is established, we simulate seizures to visually reinforce recognition both at home and in public environments. Dogs are trained to perform a "go tell" action to fetch assistance, ensuring help is summoned promptly in any situation. They undergo tests to demonstrate their ability to both scent and visually recognize seizures. While the mechanism behind dogs' ability to alert on seizures hasn't been scientifically proven, our training methods have shown significant success. Success rates depend on the type of seizures, frequency & scent kits provided by our clients.
Our program typically spans 12-18 months, depending on our current training schedule. Unlike many other providers, we do not maintain a waiting list, allowing us to focus on each client's specific needs. Our service includes a comprehensive 2-3-day in-home delivery, during which a trainer guides you and your family on proper dog handling at home, in public, and in all other environments. This personalized approach ensures that both our clients and our dogs achieve success in their journey together.
Please note that our service dogs are offered at cost and are not covered by health insurance. The total cost varies based on factors such as specific training needs, delivery location, pick-up or delivery options, and breed selection. To receive an accurate quote, we require a completed application. Our autism service dog program starts at $28,000, and we provide various payment plans along with the option for pickup or delivery. Click on the cost link for more information..
Thank you for taking the time to learn about our program. At Loyalty Service Dogs, we strive to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the process of obtaining a service dog. We are committed to establishing strong relationships with each client we assist. To begin your journey in acquiring a service dog, please complete our online application. We look forward to working with you!
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