By Jennifer Reed

After hitting the three-month mark together in November, Drake and Susie have finally accomplished that most important and often difficult step when transitioning a service dog to a new handler — they have bonded!

Susie reports that while Drake’s original trainer, Sam, along with Good Dog! executive director, Laura, and her husband, Rick, still assist her with training, she and Drake are much more in sync and Drake is very confident in her role at CAC.

At home, Susie says Drake is a typical puppy and a “true California girl” who loves the ocean and spending time at the dog park.

This month, the teachers at CAC are working with the children on various sensory issues related to the holiday season. Because children with autism are often sensitive to sights, sounds and smells within their environment, this time of year can be especially overwhelming. For some, it can even lead to “sensory overload,” in which one or more of the body’s senses experience over-stimulation.

During circle time, the children have been practicing opening and exchanging gifts as well as listening to music. Susie also practices with Drake at home so she can be a calm, comforting presence for the kids during these activities.

Drake also helps children with everyday sensory issues, like hair or teeth brushing. The staff at CAC works with one child in particular who experiences sensory issues while brushing her hair. She practices desensitization by taking turns brushing Drake, which she really enjoys, and then brushing her own hair.

Last month, Drake visited a classroom of preschoolers during “Community Helpers Week” at Susie’s daughters’ school. She stayed in a “down” while Susie talked to the kids about service dogs and the work Drake does for children with autism. Drake then demonstrated some of her commands for the class, including reading from some of her flash cards. As expected, the children absolutely loved her.

Drake also recently stopped by The Drake Center to visit Santa Claus during our annual pet photo event benefitting Rancho Coastal Humane Society. She loved seeing Santa and we have no doubt she made the nice list.

Stay tuned for another update in February!