From canvas to canines: service dogs in training came together in Cleveland for an educational outing, providing experience they’ll need in the future.
CLEVELAND — What’s better than enjoying the new Picasso exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art? It’s experiencing Picasso — with Picasso, a Canine Companions service dog in training.
The non-profit organization provides professionally trained service dogs to people with physical and cognitive disabilities, free of charge.
We first met Picasso the dog back on Oct. 30. At just 8 weeks old, he’d flown cross country to start his journey toward becoming a Canine Companions service dog.
Two-and-a-half months later, the changes are apparent. Picasso has grown quite a bit and is now showing off all that he’s learned so far.
Our reunion is not just with Picasso, but other Canine Companion dogs too for an outing at the Cleveland Museum of Art. These get-togethers are planned twice monthly for socialization and getting the dogs comfortable in different environments. They’re for the humans too.
“It’s mainly to get the raisers out, and get them working on their cues, with people that can support them,” said Staicey Scholtz. “Because there’s nothing better than having a group of puppy raisers that have been doing what you’ve been doing, and you can ask for help and support.”
Picasso has already learned 17 different commands in the short time he’s been with his puppy raiser, Vicki Simons. Today he’s working with Scholtz, a veteran puppy raiser herself.
“I’m just working him today to give him a different experience. At his age we are really working on his foundational exercises and that’s getting them calm in distracting environments. Getting them to focus on us, when there are other distractions around.”
This training wouldn’t be possible without community support found at places like The Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Great Lakes Science Center, which was the destination of another outing this past weekend.
“We’re going to be going to the West Side Market, we’re going to be going to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium,” Scholtz said. “I mean we just have so many wonderful partners that allow us to come in, in our large group of people and dogs and use their space to get the dogs ready for their professional careers.”
These outings also provide an opportunity to educate the general public about the role of service dogs. And for those who love dogs and want to give back, puppy raisers are more than happy to share why the role is an unforgettable experience.
“It’s so much fun,” Scholtz said. “I’ve raised 14 dogs and plan to keep doing it, and I plan to keep raising because I’m enjoying every single part of the aspect of it.”
Canine Companions is looking for more people to puppy raise. You can learn more by clicking HERE — as well as other ways to get involved.
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