Terry and Brody Working Dog Wednesday

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Written by Jimmy Tatum

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Working Dog Wednesday | News

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July 10, 2019

Discover why flea markets may not be the best environment for service dogs.

Learn about risks, distractions, and considerations for handlers.

1. Crowded Environment: Flea markets are often bustling with crowds, which can be overwhelming for a service dog. The dog may become stressed or anxious in such a busy atmosphere.

2. Distractions: Flea markets are filled with various sights, sounds, and smells that can distract a service dog from its duties. This could potentially compromise its ability to assist its handler effectively.

3. Unpredictable Behavior of Other Animals: Other visitors to the flea market may bring their pets along, which can lead to encounters with unfamiliar animals. This may pose a risk to the safety and focus of the service dog.

4. Risk of Injury: With so many people moving around and browsing items, there’s an increased risk of accidental tripping or stepping on the service dog, which could lead to injury.

5. Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Flea markets may not always maintain the cleanest environment, and the service dog may come into contact with unsanitary surfaces or substances.

6. Lack of Accommodation for the Dog: Flea markets may not be equipped to handle service dogs properly, such as providing suitable resting areas, water, or relief spots for the dog.

7. Potential Stress for the Dog: A flea market’s constant stimulation and unfamiliar surroundings could cause stress or discomfort for the service dog, which may affect its overall well-being and ability to perform its tasks.

Given these factors, it’s important for service dog handlers to carefully consider whether taking their dog to a flea market is truly necessary and in the best interest of the dog’s welfare and effectiveness in assisting its handler.

Terry and Brody Working Dog Wednesday

by Jimmy Tatum | Jul 10, 2019 | Working Dog Wednesday, News

Good morning, bipeds! My name is Brody, and I am four and a half years old! I have been involved with K9 Partners for Patriots since I was found at six months old, after being abandoned on the side of the road. Ever since then, I have worked hard to help every veteran who walks through the doors of K9P4P. I also take on the role of big brother with the newer service dogs who are in training alongside their veterans, allowing my handler to address the humans while I teach valuable life lessons to the prospective service dog in training.

When I am not sitting with a veteran who is waiting to be paired with a dog, or mentoring a new service dog in training – you will most likely find me chasing my tennis ball. I love chasing the ball, however, actually retrieving the ball is another story. I like to ensure both myself and my Alpha are getting sufficient daily exercise. I have to be careful, though, if I get too messy, my human will insist that I take a bath. While most of my canine brothers love frolicking in the water, I on the other paw hate getting wet. To this day, I don’t understand why humans willingly ‘bathe’ themselves daily. . .