Dogs for good is a local (Banbury) based charity, who train assistance dogs - for anyone who can benefit from them - disabled people, neurodiverse, SEN, and there were case studies presented as Videos by our speakers (Carol and Christine, fund raising volunteers for the Charity)- and the dog’s abilities were truly astounding - one was picking up post for its wheelchair user owner, who said that her dog “made life possible”. others said that their dogs “expanded their world” and “changed my life and gave me life”

Both the clients and the dogs are individuals, and the dogs are selected by their eventual owners at what amounted to a speed dating event! The dogs are carefully trained, and if they need special training, then that is given till they are confident and comfortable with situations - examples of puddles, lifts and buses were given. Training is always by positive reinforcement, rewards, which are edible treats, but their diet is carefully and strictly monitored - the treats are part of the allowance! Training includes pushing - buttons, such as at pedestrian crossings, and alarm buttons, and pulling - doors. retrieval (keys, phones, walking sticks), and taking money and cards from ATM can all be part of the skill set, as is barking when necessary … one client fell on a balcony with the door shut behind them; the dog realised something was wrong, and tried taking several things to help - phone, tv remote and front door key, even a can of beer from the fridge, before then starting to bark to raise the alarm. The closed door prevented the phone getting to the client for them to phone for help themselves

Dogs are trained to know their clients - if their client is an autistic child, they are trained to recognise anxiety and can help with deep pressure which is calming. Other behaviours of the dog are also helpful.

The charity is now working on an Dementia programme with Alzheimer’s Scotland

They came with Merch, and of course a 14 month old Lab. puppy, Jody, with Matt who is “socialising” the puppy