Ever wondered what the difference is between a therapy dog, emotional support dog and service dog? Abby Hill, Executive Director of Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs, is here to not only tell us the difference but also explain how these extraordinary four-legged friends play vital roles in their owners’ lives.
Abby's shares how her experience as a Newtown community member following the Sandy Hook tragedy led her to creating The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs. She also shares the role that puppy raisers play in raising these dogs and the incredible gifts the puppy raisers give to the humans who will depend on these life changing dogs.
Abby tells us some ways that her service dogs have profoundly impacted the lives of the individuals they serve. Whether an individual is living with PTST, anxiety, depression or another disability, Abby tells us how service dogs help their humans to live more fulfilling lives.
If you've ever been curious how service dogs serve their owners, Abby gives some specific examples of tasks these animals can perform. And if you think that a service dog might be helpful for you or someone you care about, Abby gives some resources for where you can find a reputable organization to get more information from.
Abby's Bio: Abby was one of the first people in CT to become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Abby is owner of The Exceptional Pet, the Founder and Director of The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs and Therapy Dogs, as well as being an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and a Member of the National Association of Canine Scent Work.
Abby regularly attends conferences and classes to try to learn new, exciting techniques and loves to learn from the thousands of dogs that she has trained over the years. She lives with her 3 kids, 3 dogs, 7 chickens, 1 tortoise, 1 hamster, a constant rotation of Service Dogs in Training, and a very patient husband.
If you would like more information on who to acquire a service dog:
For individuals local to Fairfield County CT:
https://exceptionalsidekick.org/
https://theexceptionalpet.com/
For a reputable organization that helps place individuals with service dogs:
https://exceptionalsidekick.org/
https://assistancedogsinternational.org/
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.
