Iris Eastman, Director of Satchel’s Last Resort and Jeanine Brawn, Professional Dog Trainer presented the kindergarten and first grade classes yesterday at Temple Beth Sholom’s Goldie Feldman Academy.
Ms. Eastman gave the students a simple strategy for dealing with strange dogs – the WAIT method. W for wait and be calm, A for Ask the dog’s owner for permission, I for Invite the dog to come to you by calling his name, and T for touch the dog, not on the top of his head but underneath. By employing this way of greeting dogs many accidents can be avoided.
Ms. Brawn and her amazing dogs, Tango and Resin shared information about the difference between Pet Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs. Tango demonstrated how he helps Ms. Brawn by retrieving needed items and Resin showed his love of life by wagging thoroughly during a petting fest.
All of the student to dog interaction was heavily supervised by teachers and presenters.
Students engaged whole heartedly with the speakers and had prepared a list of pointed questions. Ms. Eastman was surprised that they had done their homework even before the presentation by checking out the Satchel’s Last Resort web site. The children had great questions and lots of stories to relay about their experiences with dogs.
The classes contributed a wonderful panoply of donations for the shelter including blankets, toys, dog beds, detergents and treats galore.
Our report back from the shelter is that the dogs were so excited to receive the new toys, especially the green football that they had an extended play period last night.
Thanks to all who participated in this mutually beneficial project!