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Seizure Response Dogs
March 9, 2010Send to a Friend
Special Skills Dogs of Canada currently has 10 spots available on their waiting list for a Seizure Response Dog. This charity is run by the Lions Foundation and is the only certified training program of its kind in Canada.
A Seizure Response Dog is an assistance dog that is trained to react to a person’s physical cues during a seizure (dropping, convulsions, etc) and to get other people’s attention by barking. They can also be trained to activate a Lifeline system to summon emergency help. As well, the dog is also trained to lie quietly beside the person once the seizure is over and to give comfort to the individual who may be fearful or disorientated.
Applicants for the program must be the age of 8 and over, have at least a few epileptic seizures per month, be able to attend a 19 day training course in Oakville, Ontario (all travel and accommodation expenses are covered by the Lions Foundation), have good cognitive awareness, memory and the ability to follow instructions.
To apply, individuals must submit an Application Form and a Medical Form.
More information about the Special Skills Dogs of Canada program is here: http://www.dogguides.com/programs/programs02.htm
More information about Seizure Response and Alert Dogs:
Facts and Frequently Asked Questions about Seizure Response Dog Guides
BC Epilepsy Society Information Sheet on Seizure Alert and Response Dogs
The BC Epilepsy Society Spring 2010 newsletter will also feature the article, “Sniffing out the Truth,” by Dr. Adam Kirton, a Pediatric Neurologist at Alberta Children’s Hospital.
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