TONKA continues to have adventures on his journey towards becoming a service dog, meeting lots of new people and visiting lots of new places. Sometimes he even has a tire attached to him so he can practice pulling for a wheelchair (pictured). The big news this month is that Tonka has successfully completed his pre-placement testing and has been matched with a client! We are so excited to announce that Tonka will be joining his advanced training buddy Gucci for team training in early July. His trainer Miranda is very grateful to the amazing community of volunteers and the PADS puppy program staff who have made Tonkaβs success possible! We are looking forward to announcing his future match. Congratulations Team Tonka!
- Skills being learned: Bracing for wheelchair transfers, assisting with the removal of clothing, βpullβ, helping prop up legs and other limbs.
- Recent field trips: PADS Calgary Open house, Calgary Quest School, Marlborough Mall.
- Possible behavior challenges: If he gets worried, he has a hard time recovering, unsure when not being reinforced often enough
- Potential career path: Service
Thank you again for all your support of Advanced Dog Tonka!
Submitted by: Advanced Trainer Miranda Turenne