A group of puppy raisers and their service dogs in training paid a visit to Disneyland that was a huge success, not only in helping the dogs with crucial socialization but also to help spread the word about what service dogs do.
The dogs are all members of Canine Companions for Independence, a nonprofit organization that trains service animals and places them with people who need their help.
The dogs that visited “The Happiest Place On Earth” are currently in training and learning all the skills – including social skills – needed to make them the best service dogs they can be. But that doesn’t mean they can’t have some fun along the way.
The group visited Disneyland recently to explore the grounds, make new friends and get familiar with “high traffic” areas.
“Disneyland is the perfect place to socialize our puppies to crowds, loud noises, different sights and smells, and different kinds of people,” Kendra Clark, who helped organize the trip, told The Dodo.
“As puppy raisers, part of our job is educating the public about service dogs and Canine Companions’ mission,” Clark added. “So it was really wonderful that the crowds were not only incredibly interested in our service pups in training, but also so respectful of the fact that they were working.”
The dogs got to meet tons of people, including a few friendly Disney mascots. It’s safe to say the dogs left the park with a whole new group of fans.
You can find out more about Canine Companions for Independence at their website.
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