Page 79 - Lubbock Senior Link Magazine Fall 2019- Online Magazine

identified to mitigate the symptoms of when their handler is out in public
PTSD. settings. The dogs also help to
increase public awareness for what is
THESE COMMANDS INCLUDE: otherwise an invisible disability and
become a bridge that helps veterans
re-engage with their families and
Nightmare interruption: Tugging off a friends.
blanket in response to a signal that the
handler is experiencing a nightmare or If you know someone who might
night terror. benefit from a service dog, they may
Anxiety interruption: Initiating visit cci.org for more information and
interaction with the handler in response also to begin the application process.
to a cue that they are experiencing
anxiety. All dogs from Canine Companions
“Light”: Entering a room ahead of the are provided free of charge thanks
handler and turning on the light switch. to generous donations from multiple
Distance retrieve: Retrieving a dropped corporate sponsors, foundations and
item or item kept in a specific location individuals, as well as the dedication
and delivering it to the handler. of countless volunteers throughout
“Front”: Positioning body in front of the the United States.
handler.
“Behind”: Positioning body behind
the handler and leaning against the
handler’s legs.
If you would like to know more about how you can be involved or
These specialized service dogs are become a volunteer puppy raiser, please visit cci.org.
trained to ease anxiety, particularly

Lubbock Senior Link 79