Tender Loving Canines Assistance Dogs (TLCAD) has welcomed the newest member into its service dog-in-training program. To raise funds for TLCAD's life-changing work in assisting those on the autism spectrum, as well as wounded warriors with PTSD, the organization is inviting the community to name the male goldendoodle puppy via an opportunity drawing. Names may be submitted online for $5 each, and the winning name will be drawn on Saturday, August 11, at the conclusion of Dog Days of Summer in Cardiff.
TLCAD’s dogs are specially trained to help veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury, as well as children on the autism spectrum with developmental and learning difficulties, adjust to new places and people as they create an easy pathway for social interaction with others. The dogs learn to apply techniques including providing a physical sphere between a traumatized veteran and large groups of strangers, or leaning in to provide reassurance to a nervous child when sensing growing anxiety. The dogs can also help deter negative behaviors, like elopement and tantrums, helping entire families cope with the challenges inherent in autism.
The nonprofit has divided its program into “LEASH-ON-LIFE,” offering assistance dogs to those on the autism spectrum, and “AT EASE,” a Camp Pendleton-based program that allows wounded warriors, who once found it impossible to lead normal lives after returning from deployment, to again venture into public settings with pride and confidence.
TLCAD continues to seek and recruit new volunteer trainers to help meet the growing need for service dogs in San Diego County for these two disciplines. Those who are interested in volunteering for these rewarding roles should please visit the updated TLCAD Web site to fill out an application. The public is invited to help give a “gift” that changes another’s life immensely. (www.tenderlovingcanines.org)
