AT YOUR SIDE: Maggie monitors the author at the pool (left), and on on a plane (right). "In her backpack, Maggie was able to carry my pool cards, earplugs, goggles, and phone, for possible emergencies. On top of that, a well-trained service dog is able to stay on command at the side of the pool, as another lifeguard for you"

Her Presence

When people observe a truly well-behaved service dog, I have found that they tend to have a heart and show more compassion. Also, I experienced with people drawn to her, that my husband and I were connected to more social contacts. In fact, since she passed, I can't tell you how many people still continue to ask where she is, for she made an impression on others in such a positive way. She also symbolized that I had medical challenges.

Examples of Summer Activities

The Beach: A service dog is allowed on the beach to assist you. I always included her, but made sure we had an umbrella to keep her cool, along with water and her bowl. She was able to help me off the chair or get up from the sand, by being my stability. I was able to put my hands on the center of her back to safely transition.

The Pool: Service dogs can provide tremendous assistance to allow you to visit and enjoy a pool. In her backpack, Maggie was able to carry my pool cards, earplugs, goggles, and phone, for possible emergencies. On top of that, a well-trained service dog is able to stay on command at the side of the pool, as another lifeguard for you. Maggie got to know me so well, that she could sense when I needed to get out of the pool due to overextending myself. She would be in a commanded down sleeping

position, but when she sensed my oxygen levels were going down, she first would stare at me. When that didn't work, she sat up and almost jumped into the water. I learned quickly that when she looked at me, it was time to get out - and she was right. I was pushing myself. This was done by her, as she was never trained to do that! I learned to watch her and pay attention to her, for she knew I pushed

myself, but she protected me.

Outside Walks: Whether you must use a wheelchair, walker, or crutches, a service dog helps to make the adventure safer for you. For starters, you are not alone and have a guide that will pay attention to your safety and health. They are able to carry items to ease the walk and assist you in situations that require more stabilization. They are able to help you, by you placing your hands

HITTING THE ROAD : TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH YOUR SERVICE DOG

Pack your dog's food and include extra, just in case the trip has unexpected delays. I like to pack them into the side vest pockets

Remember as you travel to provide the dog with timely opportunities to relieve him/herself. There are relief locations provided now at airports.

Remember to include the poop bags, since we are responsible to clean up after our dogs

Pack a drinking bowl — and remember you can get ones that fold up and are light to travel with.

You need to protect your dog from heat, so if on the beach, be sure to bring an umbrella

Service dogs are rewarded for their efforts with small pieces of their food, so be sure to pack enough extra for the length of the trip.

Think about what you do to exercise your dog at home, and bring anything that would be part of that process - ball, frisbee, etc

Animals may have a need for medication. Be sure to pack whatever is needed for your dog.

I would encourage you to include their identification in their vest