Life with Michael

As Michael:  First flight with Wiley and no wheelchair, My dog and I were Champs!  Cannot speak well about SLC airport though.  Not Service Dog or ADA friendly at all.  I had to walk all over the place multiple times and no one ever did let us in so my dog could use the pet relief area.  I was worn out.  I had an MRI this time.  I really did not think I could do it.  I did cry at the beginning  as mom and Missy tried to put me down to recline.  Mom said  it was Little Einsteins Rocket Ship.  They put the ear buds in with Little Einsteins playing per mom's request and after face shield with mirror placed I was able to watch it as well as I blasted off.  I stayed still the whole time with minimal movement.  They said I did an awesome job.  Missy stayed right with me as well as mom , each on a side rubbing my legs when needed.  They were so proud of me.  I got a medal!   Done testing again for now.  Back home. I got to go to Enchanted Forest amusement park with my friend Alan, unc

We continue to strive for Joyful. Michael has really benefited from his service dog.  He has responsibilities now and takes them seriously.  He has to feed and groom her every day himself.  He does a great job and tells you about it.  Wiley keeps Michael centered.  She walks by his side providing comfort and friendship.  She sleeps on his feet providing touch, deep pressure and reassurance he is not alone.  She covers him in in tantrums, keeping him connected to the outside and not just in.  His tantrums/non compliance are considerably shorter and more easily directed when Wiley involved.  She is his touch point.  There when he is just sitting and thinking.  There when he plays with his toys.  There when he is on his swing.  There when he just wants to cuddle.  The  face he will look directly at and the  name he never forgets. In scoring Michael for his current placement in various categories, what is shown he is a very on target child with a big deficit in ability to communicate. 

  After two weeks of intense Service Dog Handler Training with Michael, he has his service dog. Meet Wiley!  Life changing almost immediately!    She found her spot.  Cover is the Command.  She does deep pressure when he is melting down.  He responds quickly.  Michael leading her on our hike.  The boys being goofy.  The dog is the best behaved.  ;)  At the MD office.  Dog obstacle course  Joy!!!! Our Princess Wiley.  Already taught her to bowl with Michael as well as her other 40+ commands.  She is amazing.  Thank you to Canine Companions for Independence for the life changing gift.