@puppydoglover so far I've been working with Casper (my puppy) on the basics, so making sure he can go toilet on command, walking calmly on lead, ignoring things, exposure to different surroundings and noises etc. I've got permission from a few places that I go so that he can get used to being around people and crowds aswell as trolleys, lifts, stairs etc. Casper is a Labrador and I've had him since 8 weeks old, that's the breed I chose and he is my 6th Labrador that I've had so I have experience with the breed. Adopting is also a good option though, my rescue girl that I had would have been a perfect assistance dog and she basically was for me but without the official label. I previously went through a different service with my other assistance dog that passed away when she was 3 years old but they have limited how many people they take on now and I couldn't get in to them again last time so this time I'm going with mind dogs 😊.
It's an amazing journey to go through, it can be trying at times but the good thing is that you can take it at your and your dogs pace 😊.
Animals are truly amazing and so helpful with mental health issues aswell as other disabilities, they offer support and companionship ❤️.
