Baxter is the second puppy sponsored by The Lion Richlands and the QCM Group in support of Smart Pups Assistance Dogs, a charity dedicated to training Assistance Dogs for children with special needs. With up to 28 dogs in training and a goal of achieving a 70% success rate annually, Baxter’s progress at just 11 months old is truly remarkable.
As Baxter’s future companion will rely on him for vital medical and physical support, his training is being meticulously tailored to meet her unique needs.
Baxter has already demonstrated incredible growth in mastering seizure alert behaviours, responding to simulated seizures acted out by his trainer. He’s also excelling in mobility tasks such as pressing pedestrian crossing buttons, navigating elevators, and performing other essential skills for daily life.
As a seizure-alert dog in training, Baxter is learning to detect seizures up to 10 minutes before they occur using his powerful sense of smell. Even if he’s asleep, his nose can wake him up to say, “She’s going to have a seizure!” With three loud barks, Baxter can alert the family, providing a life-changing warning.
Baxter also offers emotional support by providing weighted comfort, lying across his child’s body to help her feel calm and secure. These skills will be crucial for his future companion, who faces significant medical challenges.
Under the guidance of his trainer, Tanya, Baxter has three months of training left before being placed with his forever family. He will soon play an indispensable role in his special person’s life, offering medical, physical, and emotional support every step of the way.
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