Day 9 - Colonial Park Mall

Hello!  Today was all about public practice.  We spent the day at the Colonial Park Mall in Harrisburg. The first thing we practiced was a lot of fun and a little bit tricky.  Kindle has been trained to open handicapped doors by hitting the button with her paw.  The cue is "up" and "push" if she doesn't get it on the up.  We quickly click and treat while the door is opening and then cue her to "go on through."  That requires us to start pushing Emma through the door while Kindle is turning around and walking backward through the door and stops.  Another click and treat while making sure that dog and child and stroller and self are all clear of the closing door - thus the tricky part.  We all practiced a few times and we all had it down by the end.  It looks really sweet and it will be a huge help for us.  The rest of the time was practicing access test cues:  under, loose-leash walking, recall, lap, etc...  Kindle was pulling on the leash a lot and sniffing the ground as we began walking through the mall, which is unacceptable.  Redirection was not working, so we put the comfort trainer on.  Remember, this is NOT a muzzle of any kind.  It is simply "power steering" for the handler.  She is not restricted in any way.  This does the trick.  She was fine after that.  We took it off later and she was better.  A fun day and a productive one!  We even took her in a few stores and did some shopping.  :)  Tomorrow is home visit day.  We have lots planned.  A school visit and on-site training at her bus company and her daycare.  2 of the trainers are coming to join us.  Emma is excited to introduce Kindle to all of these important people in her life!!!
Hello 1st Graders!  I hope that your last day with Mrs. McCarthy was a good one.  Tomorrow is the Harvest Party.  I hope you have fun!  The first half of the day will be normal, except for your outfits, of course. :)  After your special, you will be doing lots of fun activities with Mrs. Fulginiti.  I am so sorry to be missing it!  Have fun!  What a great way to end the week!  I miss you all!  Love, Mrs. Wenger :)

               Ahhh, a pet on my head, bed, my ball, and warm piggy toes!  This is the life!!! :)

                                Hey!  Where did everybody go???  Just a recall, Kindle. :))

 Ahhhh, my favorite blue blankie from when I was a puppy.  Thanks Annabelle and Timo!!! It smells   soooooo good and familiar!!!!