At the meeting on 13th February, members learnt about the work of the charity Dogs for Good. We met Jeane, Jenny and her dog Cosmo, who stole the show.
Jenny told us about the many ways in which Cosmo helps her. Amongst other things he fetches the post, one letter at a time to ensure more than one reward treat. He can also open and close doors, push lift and pedestrian crossing buttons, unload the washing machine, and hold the wheelchair foot plates steady, as well as barking to raise the alarm if required.
In order to achieve such skills, both dog and human must work hard to achieve a working partnership. Dogs for Good is the charity that trains and places assistance dogs. Puppies are placed with families which socialise them and train them in obedience, after this they are assessed for suitability and are eventually introduced to their human, and together they train at a residential base.
Each dog is placed where they can be well cared for and there is a dog-proof garden, in essence they become part of the family. Such training and placement costs £11,000-13,000. Cosmo is Jenny’s second dog; Marco worked until he was twelve and then retired and lived with Jenny, Jeane and Cosmo until his death at fourteen.
Assistance dogs are also placed with autistic children and children with other difficulties, as well as in schools for such children where they help them to socialise. It has been noticed that some pet dogs instinctively help their family members, and the charity runs courses so that such behaviour can be enhanced. There were many questions, Cosmo making many friends and admirers.
Our next meeting will be on March 13th at the United Reformed Church hall, when we will hear about Crosspoint at Westbury. Newcomers are welcome, the meeting starts at 2pm.
