Assistance
dogs are faithful and highly trained four-legged friends who help people with
physical or mental impairments to lead independent and autonomous lives. These
special dogs are specifically trained to meet individual needs and assist their
human partner with everyday tasks.
There are
different types of assistance dogs, each tailored to specific tasks and needs.
Some assistance dogs are trained to support people with physical disabilities
by helping them get around, pick up objects or open doors. They can also act as
a prop to give their owner stability when walking or to warn them in the event
of a fall.
Other
assistance dogs are specifically trained to accompany people with visual
impairments. These so-called guide dogs lead their owners safely through road
traffic by recognising obstacles, observing traffic light signals and
anticipating dangerous situations. They are an indispensable partner for people
who have lost their sight or have a visual impairment.
There are
also assistance dogs that support people with mental illnesses such as
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism or anxiety disorders. These dogs
are trained to offer emotional support by providing their owners with calm and
security in stressful situations. They can, for example, recognise signs of
anxiety or panic attacks and provide reassurance by gently touching or
cuddling.
Training
assistance dogs requires a lot of time, patience and expertise. Professional
trainers work intensively with the dogs to teach them the necessary skills. In
doing so, positive strengthening and reward training are given preference. The
dogs are carefully selected to ensure they have the right qualities and
character to best serve their human partners.
People who
are accompanied by an assistance dog see these animals as more than just
helpers in everyday life. They are close companions and loyal partners who
offer them trust, security and emotional support. Assistance dogs enable their
owners to lead more independent lives and participate in social life by
overcoming obstacles and breaking down barriers.
