First it was the wheelchair. Then it was the walker. Finally, the cane.
Since Jaguar came into her life, Diane, who lives with Muscular Dystrophy, has been discarding all sorts of items she no longer needs.
In May, Diane and Jaguar passed their certification exam. This includes a tough public access test in a store and restaurant.
Diane writes:
Jaguar had his beautiful “Saving Day” when Tailer adopted him, bringing him to SDI, where his “New Life” began. He started putting on some weight he needed badly to strengthen his very skinny body.
Jaguar, became his name, and the amazing trainers at SDI began teaching this disregarded pup!
After time and hard work, this dog Jaguar has become my indescribably devoted, loving Service Dog! We went on training outings with Izzy, our trainer, to stores like Target, Home Goods and Mc Donald’s and Chick-Fil-A and such. As we bonded, our connection grew to work as one!
We just passed the PUBLIC ACCESS TEST so it’s all official now!
We walk and walk, as I hold onto the wheelchair handles, many times each day
Which has strengthened my legs and arms too. The activity I now have keeps me moving, improving all my muscles.
I can now get out to stores and Jaguar loves that too! His help at home is so mastered, he has become on Auto Pilot, closing every door, draw, cabinet that I open. We both have a rewarding reaction each time. He will open doors when asked, as well!!
He retrieves items for me, and in his playfulness he steals washcloths and a small towel from the kitchen or whatever has to do with me ~ and some attention.
He is always by my side to steady my balance and assist with my standing and moving around. He is my companion and emotional support assisting me everyday!!
Jaguar has changed my life, and I guess I changed his.
Thank you SDI for everything you do
Saving these dogs, and saving people!
Diane Len
When we adopted Jaguar from the Austin Animal Center, he was thin, dusty and hungry to be loved.
Jaguar thrived at SDI. When we matched him with client Diane, he became our first Home For The Holidays dog.
Multiple Sclerosis had restricted Diane to a wheelchair. Thanks to training with Jaguar, she has grown stronger and walks most of the time!