![]() “I’m very proud of you,” Hill said to one trainer. One by one, Hill called the graduating service dogs and their trainers up to be recognized. ![]() Service dogs in the program are trained to perform tasks that support their handlers’ needs. “These dogs would not be who they are without their effort and they love they put into them,” said Hill.ĭogs sat patiently next to trainers at tables across the pavilion as Hill spoke.Īccording to The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dog’s website, the organization’s mission is to provide “psychiatric service dogs to disabled teens and young adults to empower handlers to complete their education, opening up their world to the life they want to live.” The party was made possible by the efforts of many, including all who acted as puppy raisers, trainers, and supporters. The puppy, whose name is Piper, was donated to the program by Patten Labradors of Antrim, N.H., in honor of Baron, a yellow Labrador who, after training and qualifying to become a service dog, was diagnosed with and died of cancer, as previously reported in The Newtown Bee.Īs attendees at the July 18 event gathered under the pavilion at Dickinson Memorial Park, The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs founder and Director Abby Hill announced that the nonprofit organization’s leaders and supporters could not be more thrilled for the graduation party. ![]() If I can get you closer to your goals, and closer to a connected relationship with your dog while doing so, I’ll be extraordinarily happy.Among the canines mingling with guests of honor at The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs program graduation on July 18 was a black lab puppy. I have an extensive library (virtually and physically) of journals, courses, webinars, and books that I reference often, and I attend conferences and seminars whenever possible! I am highly visual and hands-on, which is what I prefer to be for my clients, too. Following that, I received my Master’s Degree in Adult in Continuing Education in 2019. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from Carroll University in Biology, with an emphasis in Animal Behavior, in 2012. Personally and professionally, I adore continuing education opportunities. But, I also like helping owners with dogs with anxiety or reactivity, as I feel that the breakthroughs that these clients make allow for such relief and improved quality of life for the entire family. I adore working with new puppy and dog owners and welcoming them into a world of compassionate dog training, filled with education on canine body language and enrichment strategies for behavioral wellness. With so much hands-on experience with a magnificently varied range of purebred and mixed-breed shelter dogs, I’ve gained much confidence and many skills over the years to work with a number of behavior issues that families often struggle with. (I wouldn’t have it any other way, to be clear!) I enjoy trick training with my pups, hiking as many times each week as possible, and am looking forward to a summer of standup paddle boarding with both dogs, once they are fully comfortable.įrom 2011 to 2021, I worked at the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) in Waukesha, WI, and was the manager of the Behavior Department from 2015 to 2021. Hey everyone, I’m Leann! I live in Jefferson County, WI, on 2.75 acres - my absolute dreamscape for training all the things with my dogs! My husband and I have 2 dogs and 5 cats total, and our lives absolutely and without question revolve around them. ![]()
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