Service Goldendoodles

The Goldendoodle is a very lovable dog, known for its exceptional intelligence and trainability, low to non-shedding coat, low allergy coat and low to no doggie odor. Goldendoodles are sociable, friendly, non aggressive, and extremely intuitive. Their intelligence and high trainability make them well suited for guide dogs, therapy dogs, and other types of assistance dogs.

On May 1st, 2005, Richter, bred by Amy Lane of Fox Creek Farms, became the world's first F1 Standard Goldendoodle seeing eye guide dog.  In addition to guide dogs, goldendoodles have been trained and used as service dogs, seizure alert dogs, home companions, residential (community) companions, and quality assistance dogs to people with mobility, hearing, neurological or psychiatric disabilities.  Goldendoodles have worked with children in hospitals across the world and also with neglected and abused children living in group
homes.  Goldendoodles are now also being used as search & rescue dogs.

Poodles are known for their remarkable intelligence and exceptional learning ability. Golden Retrievers have long been known for their lovable, well-mannered, intelligent dispositions. Both breeds are loyal, confident and eager to please.  It's no surprise that Goldendoodles make such amazing service dogs.  As the popularity of Goldendoodles continues to grow, no doubt we will see many more being used to help service our communities, neighbors, and friends.






Richter, the worlds first Goldendoodle seeing eye dog.

Richter, his new owner, Melissa and his trainer, Judy on graduation day!

 



-by Tami Mugler, Harli's mom - 2/26/08
Harli's Blue Obsidian, aka Obi, is not just a pet to Harli. He is her life companion. He has, in his short one year, learned to pick up her remote control, water bottle, and blanket when she drops them. Although not consistent yet with putting them in her lap, he is getting
better all the time!The most important thing he has done for her, however, is ALERT US BEFORE a seizure begins! Harli had been seizure free for over 12 years and we did not foresee ever needing Obi for this task. However, in October of 2007, Harli went into 'status' (which is one seizure after another) lasting several hours. Prior to the seizures beginning, Obi had tried to alert us. He put himself between Harli's home health aide and refused to leave Harli's side! He even followed them into the shower where he KNOWS he is NOT allowed! I had to physically remove him from the area in which he planted himself, outside the bathroom door!  I had no idea what he was trying to tell me....20 minutes later while getting Harli dressed and still trying to keep Obi out of the way, Harli began seizing! We laid Harli on her bed and awaited the ambulance. Obi positioned himself over her legs on the bed and had to be physically removed when the EMT's arrived.Harli has had 2 more episodes of seizures since that time and Obi has ALERTED me each of those days as well.  We now pay very close attention to Obi's behaviors and no longer excuse it to him being a puppy.   Seizure Alert dogs are very special indeed. I am not sure you can actually 'teach' this task.   Either the dog has it or they don't, and I truly believe that it is an example of the depth
Harli and Obi bonded that he is so in tuned to her and how she is feeling.

Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder that effects speech, balance, behavior, and causes developmental delays.  For more information please visit www.angelman.org

Carole and Josie headed a study for Scripps Clinic & Research Institute. They worked on teaching dogs to detect cancer in urine. Josie and Carole appeared on the CBS Early on 1/6/05.

The Amazing Walter and Perrin


Perrin is an autistic boy.  Walter is Perrin's wonderful companion and friend.  Walter has never flinched during one of Perrinʼs physical episodes.  He has always acted as if itʼs perfectly normal for this to occur.  Perrin is very protective and concerned for Walter's well being and happiness. 

Many goldendoodles are now being used as companions and service dogs for autistic children.  The dogs give the children more freedom and also help with communication and anxiety while in public.

For more information on service dogs for autistic children please visit these websites:

http://autismservicedogsofamerica.com/

http://www.nsd.on.ca/autism.htm

Sunshine & Lorre

Sunshine is a service dog. You cannot tell by looking at Lorre that she has a disability, as is true with many of the other 54 million Americans with disabilities. If you live in TN, there is a chance you have seen Sunshine & Lorre in the grocery store, walking in the mall, dining in a local restaurant, walking in the park, arguing for or against a proposed bill in a legislative committee, or conducting business at the bank. Sunshine weighs about 60 pounds, is two years old and as sweet as can be. She IS the Sunshine in Lorre's life.
Goldendoodles are being used as service dogs for those living with anxiety/panic disorders, depression and Bipolar Disorder.  

For more information on service animals being used to help the emotionally disabled, please visit these websites:

Psychiatric Service Dog Society
http://www.psychdog.org/about_mission.html

American Association of People with Disabilities
http://www.aapd-dc.org/index.php

These are only a few remarkable stories of how goldendoodles are being used for service.  Goldendoodles touch our lives everyday.  Whether being used to assist those with disabilities, lead the blind, alert seizures or snuggle at the end of the day; A person who has
a goldendoodle to love is truly blessed with a wonderful friend.