Relief from Insomnia

The presence of a Skilled Companion dog can be reassuring and comforting for individuals who struggle to sleep through the night. These dogs can sleep in the same room or in the bed to provide a sense of safety and security and even light pressure therapy as needed.

Companionship

Individuals who have been diagnosed with disabilities may have fewer opportunities to go and engage with their community and may spend more time at home, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. A Skilled Companion provides a source of friendship and company right where they need it most.

Increased Sense of Safety

Skilled Companion Dogs can provide a sense of safety for individuals who may live with a disability or who live alone. Individuals with anxiety or physical rehabilitation needs may also find great benefit with a well trained walking buddy.

Routine and Purpose

Routine and purpose are key components of many treatment plans for a wide variety of disabilities. A Skilled Companion dog is a great way to start building a daily routine, responsibility for another and a resulting sense of accomplishment. A Skilled Companion can help build confidence and a sense of purpose.

Sensory Support

The large, soft and comforting presence of a Skilled Companion dog may help individuals with a wide variety of cognitive and mental health diagnosis and those who struggle with sensory disorders by providing just the right amount of sensory input. Skilled Companion dogs can also provide day-to-day support, which may reduce stress and anxiety for individuals with various disabilities.

Reduce isolation and increase socialization

Many individuals with diagnosed disabilities can struggle to make connections. They may feel isolated and hesitant to join social gatherings or even uncomfortable when it comes to talking with others. A Skilled Companion dog provides a built-in stepping stone toward friendship. These companions make great conversation starters, as people are often more eager to talk to someone with a dog. Walking the dog in their community can provide more opportunities to meet new people and form friendships.

Ready for you

Selecting and training a puppy to fit into your lifestyle and household can be challenging for any family, even without the added complications of daily life that happen when disabilities present. Skilled Companion Dogs are highly capable dogs that have been selected for their intelligence, trainability and empathy. Your Skilled Companion arrives fully trained with early puppy socialization and all three levels of our obedience classes completed, along with some specific commands for their special job.

Independence, security and purpose

In 2017, 6.3 million Canadians aged 15 or older had been diagnosed with a disability. Many of these individuals struggle to find independence, security, purpose, and social acceptance. Skilled Companion Dogs can help them regain these things.

The right prescription
Not all individuals diagnosed with disabilities require the support of a medical device in public settings. Some disabilities are best served with support at home. A Skilled Companion providing at home support may be what an individual needs most. Your medical professionals can consult with our Client Services to determine help you determine if your medical needs might include a Service Dog or Skilled Companion.

Wait times

FTK-9’s recogizes that the demand for Service Dogs is immense and the wait-time can be difficult. There so many benefits in sharing companionship with a well trained dog and Skilled Companions can help fill this need.

Serving more individuals

FTK-9’s mission is to serve military veterans, firefighters and police officers. Our Service Dogs and Facility Dog’s training is specific to the unique needs of veterans in those professions. However we are aware that many more people need support, including working professionals and individuals with developmental, and cognitive challenges that are beyond FTK-9’s mission. Skilled Companions can help support this broader community.