Devin, who is in their mid-20s, sarcastically describes having “a fun mashup” of syndromes: Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, and post-concussive syndrome. On any given day, they might use a combination of crutches, a walker and a wheelchair. However, when they drop something, difficulties can arise. “I can’t really bend over if I’m using my crutches or my walker. So I would just be stuck there waiting for someone to come get it, or I would have to climb all the way down to the ground, get it, and then figure out a way to climb back up while …
Archives for February 2023
Hard-Working Tommy has Changed Pat’s Life
Three-year-old yellow Lab Tommy was nearly offered a job while at Walmart with his human partner, Pat, when the two of them were shopping there after being certified. Pat explained that a worker saw Tommy picking up an item that Pat had dropped and said they could employ him to collect all the merchandise that falls on the floor throughout the store. Pat is not about to share her precious teammate, though. “My whole life I think has changed when he moved in or even when I knew I was going to get him,” she says. Plus, Tommy is plenty …
Meet Our New Board Members
Within the past couple of months, we have welcomed four new members to our Board of Directors: Gabrielle Anderson, Rebeca Sharpe, Drew Wineland, and Matthew Woods. These four are joining our other board members to bring the total number of board members to 14, not including Jeff Johnson. We are excited about the knowledge and experience they bring to the group! Gabrielle Anderson – Allegro Senior Living Gabbi has been in the senior living industry for almost 10 years, and she is currently the Vice President of Operations for Allegro Senior Living. She oversees a portfolio of senior living communities …
Dog’s Dental Health
Dental disease is one of the most common concerns that veterinarians see in their patients. Dental disease can be uncomfortable, painful for dogs, and expensive to treat. In the long run, it can cause damage to the jaw, a higher risk of oral cancer, and eventually cause kidney disease from bacteria overgrowth. Luckily, dental disease is, overall, something very preventable. Brushing the dog’s teeth is the best way to prevent dental disease. Ensure your dog has appropriate toys and treats that are safe for teeth and yearly vet visits to check oral health. Frequency: At least once a week; daily, …
Hearing Assist Dog Wrigley Learns “Intelligent Disobedience”
By Mary Gunderson Roy and his wife, Paula, started financially supporting Can Do Canines more than 20 years ago with no thought of becoming an assistance dog family. About two years ago, Roy noticed his hearing wasn’t as sharp. While it’s not unusual for a person in their 60s to lose some hearing ability, Roy’s loss was steep and fast. “I became quite limited without hearing aids,” Roy says. Last summer he was faithfully reading Can Do Canines’ quarterly Tails for You. The article “What are You Waiting For?“ stopped him. “I was reminded, if you qualify for an assistance …