4 Paws 4 A Cause

07/12/2025

Our paw-some beginners class with some new teams!

One of the exercises we frequently touch on is what appropriate and not appropriate behavior is for a prospective service dog in training. They learn extra boundaries for their handlers and in a public setting (distractions, focus, stubborness, reactivity, eating food off floor, etc)

We also teach our handlers how to spot these behaviors and correct them!

07/04/2025

Today, we’re celebrating freedom, community, and the amazing service dog teams that help people live more independent lives every day. From all of us to you—thank you for being part of our journey.

Stay safe, enjoy the fireworks (maybe with ear protection for the pups!), and give your dogs some extra treats today! 🐶❤️

07/02/2025

A thank you post to one of our founders and valuable members who's time and dedication has allowed us to continue the work we do.

We appreciate all you do Ron D!

06/26/2025

The Dog days of summer have been RUFF. Hopefully one of our service dogs, who know how to stay cool, inspire you to do the same! 🏝🌊💦🌤

06/25/2025

06/25/2025

The Dog Days of summer are in full flaming force. Our service dog handlers find ways to brave this heat wave, while still enjoying life with their sidekick. Inside or outside, this heat is very different and can be debilitating for our K9 helpers. Handlers and K9s are used to doing things a certain way and now must environmentally adapt for their safety and continuation of daily life.

06/20/2025

Today is officially the first day of summer!

Summer is a great time to have fun with your canine buddy! Just make sure you take all the necessary precautions to ensure that your pet stays cool and comfortable as you take advantage of the summer weather.

What are precautions you take with your dog to keep them cool and comfortable in the world they share with us?

06/19/2025

Fun Fact:
In the times leading up to June 19th, 1865 some Slaves(who were allowed by the law) kept their own dogs as companions and hunting buddies that made life a little bit easier to live. They helped bring in food, and sometimes income.

They gave some enslaved people a small taste of power and autonomy. In some cases, these dogs aided in their escapes to freedom.

Some states imposed laws that forbade the enslaved from keeping a dog of their own, with some laws remaining in effect long after their freedom.

The Emancipation Proclamation and subsequently Juneteenth marked a shift in human-dog relationships for African Americans.

06/18/2025

What an emotional segment. Service Dogs have such a big impact on those who are around them daily. We hope that Lily enjoys her final days. We find comfort that when she crosses the rainbow bridge, she will feel no more pain.

After years of comforting first responders & patients, beloved service dog Lily makes her final visit to UPMC Memorial. 🐾❤️

06/17/2025

Tuesday Training Tip!

Persistence over Force:
The proverb "Dripping water hollows out stone, not through force but through persistence" emphasizes that steady, repeated action can achieve more than forceful, but infrequent, attempts

Small Actions, Big Results:
A single drop of water hitting a rock might seem insignificant, but over time, the cumulative effect of countless drops can create noticeable changes.

This idea can be applied to training and service dog tasking development. Consistent, small steps, like practicing a skill for a short time each day, can lead to significant progress over time.

06/15/2025

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads, stepdads, granddads, father figures, and anyone who has provided guidance and love in your life!

"Dad Jokes" are always the best! Here are some Dad jokes as told by a Dog...and we hope they make your day!

🙃What was the dog's favorite type of homework?
😂A lab report

🙃What kind of dog comes from Asgard and wields a mighty hammer?
😂A labrathor

🙃Why did the Dalmatian hide from people?
😂The Dalmatian hid from people because he didn't want to be spotted.

🙃How would you describe your dog's physique? Is he fat?
😂My dog's not fat. He's just a little husky.

🙃What kind of dog does Dracula have?
😂A bloodhound!

🙃Why do dogs make terrible dance partners?
😂Because they have two left feet!

🙃What dog keeps the best time?
😂A watchdog!

🙃What do a dog and a cellphone have in common?
😂Both have collar ID!

🙃What do you call a cold canine?
😂A chili dog!

🙃What do you call a dog that can do magic?
😂A Labracadabrador!

🙃Why did the cowboy get a wiener dog?
😂He wanted to get a long, little doggie!

06/13/2025

Fun Fact!

June 14th Is FLAG DAY!

It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress.