While sitting here in sunny, southern California,
“I’m dreaming of a white Christmas…”
Enjoying living vicariously through Windsor’s love of the snow. I am! Click on any picture to enlarge it.
“Words of Wisdom” by Sir Windsor B. Derby
Stop and use your "SNIFTER!" If you can't smell the roses, smell the snow!
Investigate thoroughly.
Hang onto what's precious!
Enjoy the moment.
Enjoy the journey.
Enjoy the view.
Donation Update: As of December 20, $1,850 has been donated towards Windsor’s total cost of $7,000 which includes his purchase, training, service dog equipment, and medical. His expected arrival is in March 2010. Thanks everyone for your help!
In this video taken in mid-October six weeks into his training, Windsor is almost four months old. Heather, the service dog trainer, and Windsor demonstrate his first week of advanced training being off-leash. You will notice distractions and yet Windsor continues to stay focused on listening and following Heather’s commands, a must for a service dog.
Here is a preview of a few of the commands with an explanation as to how he will use them as a service dog, specifically a mobility assistance dog.
“Wait.” – Windsor, I’ll give you another command in a moment. For instance, going up an escalator, Windsor will need to “Wait” on the stairs with me, rather than continue to climb up them. He likes climbing stairs!
“Stay.” – This command communicates that I’m going away, but I’ll come back. At four months old, Windsor could remain in a directed “Stay” position for ten minutes with Heather out of site.
“Down.” – When I fall or collapse to the ground, Windsor will be directed to go “Down” with me. When possible, I will then “Brace” on his mobility harness, which he will soon be trained to wear, and push up to stand and regain my balance.
“Stand.” – After I’ve fallen and I’m in the process of getting up, I will direct Windsor to “Stand” as I hold onto his harness and continue to regain my balance.
“Fast.” and “Slow.” – These commands will help Windsor acclimate to my varied paces. Sometimes I take off quickly and other times I’m more snail-like with my right side dragging especially.
I introduce to you “Sir Windsor B. Derby” hard at work!
Have fun watching! I’m very proud of him!
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Hope For Christy 
