Dogs for Good is a charity which supports and provides children and adults with Assistance Dogs. It also runs a variety of workshops in the community. These events raise awareness about the work the dogs play in their role to support a person with disabilities. \u00a0And if that wasn’t enough work for them, they also run Family Dog workshops aiming to build important bonds and behaviour between a pet dog and autistic members of the family.<\/p>\n
This week, I went along to the first of three Family Dog workshops running in Bristol.<\/p>\n
The workshop goes into a surprising amount of detail which is suitable for current dog owners as well as those considering getting their own family dog.<\/p>\n
Participants get vital information and practical hands on experience. The workshop leaders know their stuff inside out. You don’t bring your dog with you because they bring along some of their beautifully trained dogs. There is also plenty of aftercare membership support on the internet for when you need a little extra help.<\/p>\n
It’s extremely difficult for children with autism to get a properly trained and accredited Assistance Dog. \u00a0The charity starts to train around 50 dogs per year. Each takes around two years to train costing \u00a312,000 per dog.<\/p>\n
The charity estimates that more than 100,000 people in the UK would have their life enhanced and improved by an Assistance Dog and they receive more than 2000 queries every year. With no government funding and relying only on donations, it’s a long slow mission.<\/p>\n
If you are unable to get an Assistance Dog, the Family Dog workshop is really worth attending if you are thinking about going along this route. It’s important to bear in mind that this will not enable your pet to have the same rights of access afforded an Assistance Dog by law. But, it can be a really positive experience and for some families life changing.<\/p>\n