dturm wrote:
I'm curious, how many (what percentage) flunk out of real service dog training? The only experience I've had with them is providing vet services when needed.
I know two families who own "flunkies" - both the dogs were just a bit too hyper (I suppose there's a fine line between "driven to be a helper" and "PITA".....LOL!) They sought these dogs because they are bred for temperment and health. Also, my bro-in-law in Florida raised a couple of puppies who were destined to become service dogs: the first dog "graduated" and found a person to assist; the second dog flunked out - but so did my bro-in-law as a "puppy-raiser". Ooops.
Several members of the Paws With A Cause Training team attended the obedience classes that I attended at the Kalamazoo Kennel Club, so I had lots of chances to watch them interact with dogs. I think they could have taught a turnip to fetch. They were amazing in their ability to "read" a dog, so I suspect that once a dog is accepted into the program, not too many fail?
