News and Events
| As of January 2011, 4 Paws for Ability has trained and placed over 600 service dogs! |
Newspaper, Web, & General Coverage
2011
August 30, 2011 CBS News: Dr. Debbye Turner Bell profiles one seven7-year-old Virginia boy who has found a creative way to improve the lives of countless Epilepsy patients and seizure sufferers. Read about Evan Moss and his best-selling book!.
July 20, 2011 Stolen Special Needs Service Dog Gets Returned, says Bing.com. Discover how Christmas, a 4 Paws Service Dog, was lost, then found! July 12, 2011. Syracuse.com Community responds, Cicero girl receives service dog by Sarah Moses. Cicero, NY. An 8-year-old Cicero girl who can't walk or talk is getting around easier this summer by the help of a service dog that the community helped her family to purchase... June 20, 2011. Binghampton NY. Community support helps disabled girl get a service dog. NORTH SYRACUSE, N.Y. Eight-year-old Gracie D'Alberto can't walk on her own or talk on her own, but she has a new best friend named Frankie who makes life easier. "Gracie has a button on her talker that says help and when she pushes that, Frankie goes and finds me," said Gracie's mom, Bethany D'Alberto. The black lab can also open and close doors and cabinets, press handicap buttons to open doors and get the elevator, but the D'Albertos couldn't have gotten her without the community's help. May 18, 2011. Anchorage Daily News. Article by Julia O'Malley. Eivind and Amy Brendtro have an autism service dog named May to assist with their two special needs children Linnea, 9, and Leif, 6. May, a 3-year-old golden retriever, was trained at 4 Paws for Ability and helps track the children when they get lost, she helps with behavior assistance by comforting them, and the kids are tethered to her in public to ensure their safety. More about the Brendtro family and their special service dog, May... April 16, 2011. The News-Herald. WOODHAVEN: A helping paw - service dog helps brothers deal with autism. Kara and Brent Clarke learned Oct. 31, 2007, that their son, Noah, was autistic. In September 2008, they found out that their younger son, Adam, also is autistic.
The boys, now 5 and 3, respectively, have been diagnosed with classic autism and sensory processing disorder. Adam has been diagnosed as moderate; Noah, as severe and nonverbal...On April 26, the family will have had Radar, their autism service dog, for a year. April 15, 2011. The Bastrop Advertiser. Isreal was five months old when Tina began to see some developmental delays and what appeared to be excessive hiccupping, sometimes as often as 40 or 50 times a day. The hiccups were diagnosed as infantile spasms or seizures and were later categorized as epilepsy. Isreal has seizures only rarely now - one every two years or so. As he grew older, Isreal began displaying many characteristics of autism...Jesse had been in the Marines for seven years before his first tour of duty in Iraq. He spent five months as a sniper team leader in the city of Ramadi, about 60 miles west of Baghdad, before the night of July 24, 2004, when, returning to base after a mission, the Humvee he was in was struck by a roadside bomb roughly a quarter of a mile from the base....Jesse was medevaced to Al Taqaddum Airbase, where he had the first of around 13 surgeries - he can't remember the exact number - on his arm. The Longorias waited two years for Moe. They contacted a number of service dog agencies, looking for one who would train an animal who could help not just Isreal, but also Jesse. Eventually, they were referred to 4 Paws for Ability by the Pets for Patriots program.... March 29, 2011. Dallas Morning News. Boy with epilepsy awaits "Doctor Dog" One minute, Oliver Kurlinski was ripping open presents on his 4th birthday. The next, he was in the hospital with electrodes stuck to his head. While his family watched the toddler tear at wrapping paper in his McKinney home, he suddenly collapsed. Panicked and unsure if their child was dying in front of them, his mother, Heather, starting CPR while his father, Joshua, called 911. "He was holding his present, an action figure, and then he just collapsed," Heather said. After about a week of medical tests, Oliver was diagnosed with epilepsy. Seven months later, Oliver is afraid to be alone. So Heather wants to find independence for her son - in the form of a seizure assistance dog. March 26, 2011 Meadow Lakes, Alaska by Greg Johnson. Service dog would give 8-year-old newfound independence. In many ways, Willie Koonce is like most other 8-year-olds. He loves music (Lady Gaga is a favorite), television, swimming and jumping on the trampoline. That he's fed through a tube and can't verbally communicate doesn't slow down the Meadow Lakes Elementary student. Affected by Down syndrome and autism, Willie can't tell his family or teachers what he's feeling and can become frustrated. More about Willie Koonce... March 20, 2011 Fanny the poodle a godsend to family of special needs child from TampaBay.com by Robert Napper, St. Petersburg Times Correspondent. NEW PORT RICHEY, FLORIDA - The bonds children forge with pets are often deep, but the connection between 9-year-old Jennifer Petersen and her sidekick Fanny the poodle is nothing short of extraordinary. Born prematurely at 5.5 pounds after an emergency Caesarean section, Jennifer lacked full supply of oxygen to her brain and spent six weeks in a newborn intensive care unit. Effective March 15, 2011 From Department of Justice 28 CFR Part 35, [CRT Docket No. 105; AG Order No. 3180-2010]
RIN 1190-AA46. Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in State and Local Government Services; Corrections: B. Substantive Error. As published, the final rule contains an error in wording that may cause confusion over the interpretation of the rule. Specifically, in Sec. 35.104 ("Definitions"), the "service animal" definition states as follows: "The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the handler's disability." Because a service animal is not always controlled by the individual with a disability, the service animal's "handler" is not necessarily the individual with a disability. To clear up any confusion, the word "handler's" should be replaced with the word "individual's" in that sentence. Similar use of the word "handler" in the section-by-section analysis contained in Appendix A to part 35 also needs to be changed to "individual" so it is clear that the individual with a disability does not necessarily need to be the animal's handler in order to be covered by the rule's provisions. (To read the entire correction, click here.)
March 10, 2011 4 Paws provides canine miracles Service dog will help twins battle numerous disabilities. SouthBendTribune.com: To say Jamin and Jacob had a rough start in life would be exactly right. They are twins who were born in Russia 10 weeks prematurely, weighing 2 pounds and 2 1/2 pounds, respectively. They were transferred from the hospital to an orphanage one month apart but were unknowingly separated. Through divine intervention, Jamin was found in time to join her twin brother in the process of becoming an Irwin. Despite the delay and a significant increase in fees, Jamin and Jacob became Irwins on March 3, 1999, and moved to Akron, Ind., at 10 months of age. Our two blessings struggled with respiratory issues for a few years, but thankfully have grown into healthy, happy kids. One of the hardest challenges for our family is their varying special needs. Jamin and Jacob's primary diagnosis is fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), followed by autism spectrum. Jacob is also challenged with cerebral palsy, Jamin with a hearing impairment... March 9, 2011. DOJ investigation prompts Oregon school district to allow student to bring autism service dog to school. According to the Cypress Times, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that Hillsboro School District (HSD) has agreed to allow Jordan "Scooter" Givens, a student suffering from autism, to bring his service dog to school. The dog recognizes when Givens is about to engage in behavior that might endanger him, and distracts him to obstruct this type of behavior. For nearly three years, says the Cypress Times, his parents' efforts to get permission for the student to bring the dog to school had been rebuffed... March 7, 2011. Department of Justice, Office of Public Affairs. Hillsboro School District Agrees to Access for Autism Service Dog. WASHINGTON - The Justice Department announced today that the Hillsboro, Oregon, School District will allow Jordan "Scooter" Givens to bring his trained autism service dog into his classroom in the Hillsboro School District.
The highly trained service dog, Madison, provides critical assistance to Scooter, recognizing when he is about to engage in behavior that might endanger him, and distracting him to obstruct this type of behavior. For nearly three years, Scooter's parents' efforts to get permission for Scooter to bring Madison to school had been rebuffed. After U.S. Attorney Dwight Holton and a senior attorney from the Civil Rights Division met in late January with the superintendent of the Hillsboro School District regarding the failure to accommodate the Givens' request, the school district announced last Friday that it would allow Scooter to be accompanied by the service dog for a trial period... March 8, 2011. Autistic boy wins fight to bring service dog to class, Hillsboro KATU. HILLSBORO, Ore. - After a three-year battle with the Hillsboro School District, a young autistic boy has won his fight to bring his service dog to class. Due to a federal investigation, the school district had to make a decision, and Oregon's attorney general laid it out bluntly: It could be a long, expensive lawsuit. So, Scooter Givens' service dog, Madison, will be allowed during a trial period at Patterson Elementary... March 8, 2011. Hillsboro service dog adds class to resume, by Kurt Eckert, The Hillsboro Argus. Sometimes it takes an animal to show people the most humane solutions to problems. It appears the rights of severely autistic children in Washington County will get a big paw forward with Friday's announcement that the Hillsboro School District will allow Patterson Elementary fourth-grader Jordan "Scooter" Givens to bring his highly-trained dog Madison to school with him on a trial basis... March 7, 2011. Bill seeks service-animal rights for those with mental disabilities, by Christi Warren, Columbia Missourian. JEFFERSON CITY - Ten-year-old Sean LaRochelle sat quietly with his dog while his father testified during a public hearing Wednesday. According to his father, Matt LaRochelle, this would have been nearly impossible four years ago, before his family's ownership of Cady, Sean LaRochelle's service dog. Sean LaRochelle has severe autism. "I would have to be chasing him out of the room or down the hall," Matt LaRochelle said.
Without the assistance of Cady, Matt LaRochelle said his family essentially would be homebound... February. 4 Paws For Ability Gets Grant to Vaccinate Dogs for Influenza
Petfinder.com Foundation furnishes funds to protect shelter dogs from canine flu.
TUCSON, February 26, 2011 - 4 Paws For Ability, Xenia, now has help in protecting dogs against canine influenza virus (CIV), a highly contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity. The shelter received a grant for the vaccines as part of a Petfinder.com Foundation program to build community immunity against this respiratory infection. The foundation partnered with Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, a global animal health company and makers of the NOBIVAC(r) Canine Flu H3N8 vaccine, to fund the grant.
Because CIV is relatively new, most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. Dogs can get the disease by being exposed to those that have it, as well as playing with toys or drinking from bowls used by other dogs. People can also unwittingly spread the germ if they come in contact with infected dogs.
"Shelters and rescue organizations are often the first places that new diseases already in the community become evident. Dogs come in from the community and are released back into it, and often move to and from states with confirmed cases," said Liz Neuschatz, director of the Petfinder.com Foundation. "Canine flu can be a real problem for shelters, where one sick dog can cause an outbreak through an entire facility. We are pleased to be part of this effort to help protect the community by providing canine flu vaccine to 4 Paws For Ability."
Dog flu is a growing problem throughout the U.S. It has been confirmed in 34 states so far, but tracking the disease is hard because it is so difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before they show any symptoms. By the time the dog starts coughing, it's too late. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal. Dogs that go to doggie daycare, boarding facilities, groomers and shows and are vaccinated for canine cough (Bordetella) are also at risk for canine flu. Information about canine flu is available at www.doginfluenza.com.
The grant for Building Community Immunity seeks to protect all at-risk dogs in the community, including those in close proximity with other dogs, as is the case with shelters and rescue facilities. It also provides greater assurance to adopting families that their new pets will be healthier and much less likely to be sick or get more serious, and sometimes fatal, infections. The grant further links PetFinder.com member shelter and rescue grant recipients with local veterinarians to protect all adoptable dogs in their care. The program promotes veterinary visits for wellness exams and, when appropriate, the second dose administration of Nobivac Canine Flu vaccine.
AboutPetfinder.com Foundation
The Petfinder.com Foundation was created in 2003 to respond to needs of its Petfinder member shelters and rescue groups and to assist them in ensuring that no pet is euthanized for lack of a home. The vaccine grant will help keep dogs healthy and adoptable.
About Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health
Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, based in Boxmeer, the Netherlands, is focused on the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of animal health products. The company offers customers one of the broadest, most innovative animal health portfolios, spanning products to support performance and to prevent, treat and control disease in all major farm and companion animal species. Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health; subsidiaries of Merck & Co. Inc., Whitehouse Station NJ, USA. For more information, visit www.intervet.com.
February 15, 2010 White Bear Lake: Mark Grewing lost one leg and then the other to diabetes but stayed active with aid from a wheelchair and a service dog. "He never got real down in the dumps about it," said neighbor Lorraine Dreher. "He didn't let it stop him from doing anything. He didn't want anyone to feel sorry for him..." February 9, 2011 Greene County Dailies. 4 Paws for Ability receives donation Xenia, Ohio. The four legged friends in residence at 4 Paws for Ability, 253 Dayton Ave., received a generous donation on Wednesday, Feb. 9, when Proctor and Gamble provided the non-profit agency with a mind-boggling 44,800 pounds of dog food... February 7, 2011 TwinCities.com. Mark Grewing had a hard life. Years ago, he lost his lower legs to diabetes, and he continued to be plagued by that and other diseases. About 4:30 a.m. Sunday, bothered by insomnia resulting from back pain, Grewing steered his wheelchair from his White Bear Lake apartment onto Highland Avenue, possibly headed for a nearby 24-hour convenience store. He was hit by a pickup truck and died later in the day at Regions Hospital in St. Paul... February 3, 2011 Introducing 4 Paws for Ability LoveDrop Blog. Hi guys! We wanted to introduce you to our friends over at 4 Paws for Ability - the amazing organization that trains and provides service dogs to those who are disabled. We took a tour of their place last week and were absolutely blown away at what they're doing...
2010
December 24, 2010 A dog for Deeds: Family fundraising for autistic son PLEASANT GROVE -- Dogs have been called man's best friend. For JD "Deeds" Mauss, a dog would be so much more. JD will turn 3 in January. Soon after his second birthday, he was diagnosed with autism. More recently, after a series of seizures, he was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia and mild cerebral palsy... November 30, 2010 Intent Blog. Independence Unleashed: How Service Dogs Can Help with Autism. Just as Seeing Eye dogs make the world more navigable for the blind, specially trained service dogs are now also helping children with autism gain success and independence. These canine companions aid children through everyday social challenges and help lower kids' overall stress levels... September 28, 2010 Winokur family took a 'chance' on four paws by Ron Butt Atlanta Jewish Times article. Iyal Winokur comes home each day after spending more than six hours at school. His day is highly structured, following a daily routine. When Iyal arrives home, the structure changes. His brain has spent all day working, pushing toward a state of cognitive fatigue. Iyal ends up in a fit and needing to be calmed down. Born with a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, Iyal’s brain hasn’t developed the way it should, meaning he faces daily chemical imbalances... September 27, 2010 UNI football player Schuylar Oordt helps Julian Herington get his service dog, by Emily Christensen. WATERLOO, Iowa --- Schuylar Oordt was intrigued by Julian Herington's story. The University of Northern Iowa football player had never met the Waterloo teen, but when a friend told him about the summertime fundraiser she worked, he wanted to know more. He found Herington's blog and read his story --- he was shaken as a baby and is now legally blind and has a traumatic brain injury. On Sept. 15 Leah Morrison, Julian's mother, posted that they were "only $2,775 away from the peak of fundraising mountain."... September 2010. Saeger Middle School Appoints Service Dogs to Staff of Paraprofessionals.
 Check out the newest members of the Saeger Middle School Staff!
If you click on the link, scroll down under the Paraprofessionals heading you'll see some familiar names: Harry and Monroe, 4 Paws Service Dogs. Saeger included the dogs in their staff photos and we're happy to share them on the 4 Paws for Ability Site. September 24, 2010 Mansfield News Journal article, Service Dog attends school with Ontario girl, 7 by Jami Kinton. Floppy's been with the Colluras for only a month, but this golden retriever-lab mix has already proven to be indispensable to the family -- especially to 7-year-old Reagan. Her mother, Dottie Collura, said at 18 months Reagan was diagnosed with chromosome 18q-trisomy p, a condition that has meant several developmental delays....The condition was a fluke."They say this happened in the second day of conception," Dottie said. "It's a one in a million thing."...
- September 22, 2010 ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI - Dogs can be more than a member of the family. "4 Paws For Ability" trains dogs to protect autistic children. Two families joined us on FOX2 News In the Morning, one already has their dog trained to help their autistic son and the other is raising money to get one for her 11 year old autistic daughter...
- September 17, 2010 The newest student in Vale Elementary third-grade teacher Sally Harden's class doesn't have a desk. She doesn't do homework either, but she has a job to do. Lolita, a 1-year-old black Lab-golden retriever mix, instead lays on a mat in the back of Harden's classroom, directly behind the desk of her owner, 9-year-old Simon Yarbrough. When Yarbrough, who was diagnosed with autism when he was 3, gets frustrated or upset in class or any other time, service dog Lolita responds with the command "touch," and she reaches out to Yarbrough with a paw on the leg or a lick on his hand. ...
- September 15, 2010 Iditarod leads autistic boy to Xenia for service dog Logan Erickson pressed his nose against the airport window near his hometown of Unalakleet, Alaska. The little boy with autism who hadn’t spoken in about seven years watched a family friend — Iditarod sled dog musher DeeDee Jonrowe — get on a plane with her dog, Miyagi. Jonrowe had been stuck there because of a storm...
- September 10, 2010 Stingel Primary School Preschool-Grade 2 Welcomes 4 Paws Service Dog as Student...Meet Floppy...Our new Student. We are very excited to introduce to you Floppy, the newest student here at Stingel Primary. Floppy is specially trained as a multipurpose assistance dog for one of our current students. She was trained through 4 Paws for Ability, a nationally recognized training organization. Because Floppy is a multipurpose assistance dog, not a mobility or guide dog, the other children are permitted to interact with Floppy, with supervision, at appropriate times. Be sure to say "hi" to Floppy when you see her here at Stingel starting the week of Sept. 20th. Please contact Mr. Fisk, Stingel Primary Principal, if you have any questions about Floppy.
- September 8, 2010 Service dogs help students get through first day By Kelly Voll. The Citizen. "For two Auburn families, the first day back was unique: two local students started school this year with service dogs by their sides." Read about Christian Barker and Anthony Granato and their service dogs, Reuben and Ladybug...
- August 2010 Complex Child E-Magazine features article about a child's service dog. Actually, in public, to most who watch us, we look more like a three ring circus complete with a circus dog in tow. However, our dog Clarabelle is not a circus dog, but an extraordinary service dog trained in seizure alert and mobility assistance to aid our middle child, Luke, who is just three and a half years old. At only eight months of age, Luke started having terrible grand mal seizures, some lasting as long as 40 minutes. As a special educator, I had seen children have seizures, but this left a hole in my heart bigger than you could imagine. Luke had many events in the middle of the night that we never knew happened until the next morning, when we would see the puddle of drool in the bed, the unsteady gait, and the tired post-ictal behavior that only came after a prolonged seizure...
- March 19, 2010 Dog gives sick boy strength By Kelly McGrath. Bedford Journal. "...when Nicholas was diagnosed in 2008 with Batten disease, a neurological degenerative disorder that causes vision loss, seizures and is considered terminal, his parents didn’t think the addition of a furry friend would be possible. That is, until they discovered 4 Paws for Ability. The Ohio-based nonprofit agency places service dogs with people who have disabilities..."
- January 10, 2010 Dog helps stabilize autistic boy's life, but Hillsboro school says not in the classroom By Wendy Owen, The Oregonian. Eric and Wendy Givens know Madison, a trained autism service dog, can calm their son; they've seen the German shepherd do so at malls, in parking lots, at restaurants. But the Hillsboro School District won't allow the dog in school, saying Scooter is doing well without the shepherd.
Air New Zealand provides free transportation for four service dogs destined for New Zealand
 January 24, 2010 Excerpted from CargoNews Issue 110 with permission of Air New Zealand Los Angeles LAX Cargo had the rare privilege to assist a most worthy cause, the transportation of 4 trained dogs for 4 Paws for Ability to Auckland on NZ01/24 Jan, 2010. Executive Director Karen Shirk started 4 Paws for Ability in the 1990’s because of the difficulty she experienced in obtaining a service dog for her own family. Many of the current agencies have waiting lists or age specific requirements which make obtaining a service dog all but impossible. With this experience in mind, Karen then started 4 Paws for Ability, "…and to keep as a founding principle the willingness to provide service dogs for any individual regardless of age or disability."
4 Paws for Ability, Inc, mission is to:
- Enrich the lives of people with disabilities by the training and placement of service dogs to provide individuals with companionship and [to] promote independent living;
- Educate the public to accept the use of service dogs in public places;
- Assist with animal rescue whenever possible by obtaining many of our animals from shelters and rescue groups.
Eric Bimber, Cargo Sales Manager, Southwest, worked closely with 4 Paws to provide the passage to New Zealand, (with great thanks to CEO Rob Fyfe for his personal approval) for these 4 beautiful, fully trained dogs to help children with disabilities. Also, great thanks from 4 Paws to Sandro Penzo, Rick Nelson and Sal Sanfilippo.
The cost for one of these dogs can normally range from USD$240-$14,000, based on the amount of training necessary. But—this cost is absorbed by the applicant, who uses fund raising activities to gather the necessary resources, with assistance from 4 Paws as necessary.
This shipment to New Zealand was actually the second one from 4 Paws, and was destined to 4 Paws for Ability New Zealand Charitable Trust. All 4 of these dogs went to children with Autism or Seizure disorders.
LAX Cargo received a heart-warming, hand-written letter of appreciation, and Karen described her experience with Cargo/LAX as "wonderful."
Looking forward to the next time we can be of assistance, Karen!
Here's a link to the PDF document with the article and a thank-you note from 4 Paws for Ability New Zealand Charitable Trust.
2009
- December 30, 2009 New Jersey Jewish News by Ron Kaplan. Young author seeks to raise awareness of Fetal Alcohol diseases with new book.
December 20, 2009 Pitching In: Jackson family working to secure autism service dog for 5-year-old child. By Joanie Hauglie | Jackson Citizen Patriot Five-year-old Whit Warren of Jackson was diagnosed with autism three years ago. Whit's parents, Rebecca and Jim Warren, are aggressively pursuing one avenue that is proving promising for children with autism. December 17, 2009 Dayton Daily News. Service dog helps area autistic student, proposed bill would ease challenges. Marble helps Donnie Oda get through the day at Springboro Junior High School. Oda, 12, is among autistic Ohioans who would benefit from bills proposed in both branches of the Ohio Legislature expanding the definition of "mobility impaired person" and protecting them from legal challenges to the use of assistance dogs. November 22, 2009 The Jewish Georgian, Page 40, An 11-year-old girl writes the first of her family’s three books about her brother’s
struggle with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and the service dog that helped them all. November 6, 2009 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution by Helena Oliviero Service dog a calming presence for entire family: Chancer trained to deal with child who has fetal alcohol syndrome... October 30, 2009 Hospital welcomes patient's service dog. St. Joseph Hospital West of Lake Saint Louis, Missouri ensured that Reece Gentilini awoke from surgery to find her Autism Service Dog on her hospital bed. Read "An Exceptional Surgery Experience for an Exceptional Patient" in its October 30, 2009 newsletter. October 26, 2009 Morasha Winokur did her first interview (live) last Friday at CNN studios in Atlanta. She was awesome. You can watch her 5 minute interview by clicking here. Her brother, Iyal, has a 4 Paws for Ability FASD service dog, Chancer. The video is posted on her blog: http://ypwr.blogs.cnn.com/2009/10/19/morasha-winokur/ October 17, 2009 Discover how autism service dog Jingle is trained and integrated into Riley's family. Blog. October 17, 2009 How a golden retriever named Galaxy became a dog star Only a year or so ago the Weinstocks of East Bentleigh, Australia, were thinking the unthinkable. Simon, nearly eight, their second son, might have to leave to live in care, for the sake of an already struggling family. October 13, 2009 Family Hopes For Four-Legged Help For Son
Jacob Clark Born Blind, Autistic, Epileptic. Six-year-old Jacob Clark was born with a rare condition that left him blind, autistic and epileptic. As a result, his seizures are so bad he often ends up in the hospital for weeks at a time when he has one. October 8, 2009 Seizure-Detecting Dog Removed From Boy's Side: Hospital Reviewing Service Animal Policy. A dog that can detect a boy's epileptic seizures was torn away from the boy's side for several hours after what the parents call an emotional experience at Kosair Children's Hospital. When Trey Taylor, 13, had brain surgery for his seizures last week, his service dog was by his side until a hospital employee shocked the parents with a request that brought them to tears and forced the hospital to take a second look at their service dog policy. October 7, 2009 Morasha Winokur publishes "My Invisible World," the story of her family and FASD service dog, Chancer. September 16, 2009 Angel walks to the rescue Late one night, Mathew Cook decided to fetch his dog, Potter. His plan had four flaws: 1. Potter, a Lab-Golden Retriever mix, sat 3.7 miles away in Madeira; 2. Mathew was spending the night in Madison Place with his older brother and sister-in-law; 3. Mathew is eight years old; 4. He has Down's syndrome.
July 15, 2009 Jackman, Bennett, McCartney -- Stars Lining Up For Jones Tribute/Lunden Keeping Positive Amid Seven Offspring And Several Careers. Creators.com article interviews Joan Lunden, who mentions one of the DirecTV heroes she interviewed, Karen Shirk, 4 Paws for Ability June 23, 2009 Xenia woman finalist for Energizer Hall of Fame. Karen Shirk, founder and director of 4 Paws for Ability is a finalist for the 2009 Energizer Keep Going® Hall of Fame. 4 Paws for Ability is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs in Xenia. Shirk, who was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, founded the organization after having to find and train her own dog after her request for one was denied June 11, 2009 Dog can seize the day in family emergency, the Chicago Sun-Times story of Donut and Colin. Dogs always have been known as man's best friend, but when it comes to seizure-response dogs for those with epilepsy, these special canines become invaluable protectors... June 8, 2009 Canine Career Serves Tri-State Families in Need: She is small but mighty. Her 8-pound self helps to save lives with her keen senses. Her name is Piper. She is a little Papillon dog who works for Karen Shirk, founder of 4 Paws for Ability. With help from medications and service dogs, Shirk went into medically controlled remission, but she still can have exacerbations with her respiratory problems. That's where Piper comes in. June 3, 2009 WAIKATO, NEW ZEALAND Wanted: dogs to aid in autism battle May 26, 2009 Dayton Daily News, Dayton Ohio. Local woman semi-finalist for Energizer Bunny Hall of Fame...Details April 2009. DirectTV is running its second year of Hometown Heroes, and Shirk has been chosen as a nationwide hero for her work.
Hometown Heroes second season begins Sunday, April 5, (9 a.m. ET/PT) only on DIRECTV’s The 101® Network. The series, hosted for a second year by Joan Lunden, is presented commercial-free and in HD. See the 4 Paws for Ability feature, Episode #7 - May 17, 2009. March 6, 2009. Piper featured as Woman of the Week. You might work 9 to 5 in a cubicle, but this professional pup works around the clock all over town. Learn more about one service dog who helps run a service dog placement organization. She is small but mighty. Her 8-pound self helps to save lives with her keen senses. Her name is Piper. She is a little Papillon dog who works for Karen Shirk, founder of 4 Paws for Ability. March 5, 2009 Springfield, Ohio, Wittenberg University: Students living in off-campus housing may participate in a new service project where they "socialize" a dog for future service to children with Autism. The dogs live with students and accompany them throughout their days, going to class, work, meetings, etc. January 31, 2009 Emporia, Kansas: Dog is "magic leash" for boy with autism. Life has gotten easier for Andrew Smith since he got a magic leash with Ava, a non-shedding, hypoallergenic Goldendoodle, at the end of it. Andrew, 6, had struggled with autism and its accompanying symptoms. His tendency to try to escape from stores and church and school worried his family, because he had a talent for slipping away quickly without being seen. Andrew’s disappearing act is a common symptom in autistic children, who may feel compelled to get away from crowds and other situations that overstimulate them. Ava, a service dog trained for autism, has changed that behavior...Article in Emporia Gazette by Bobbi Mlynar. 2008
December 21, 2008 Springfield, Ohio: Witt students socialize service dogs. Lauren Bryant promised herself she would not get attached to the golden retriever puppy placed in her care in September. But as the Wittenberg University senior planned to go home for Christmas vacation last week, the thought of returning N'Sync to 4 Paws for Ability brought tears to her eyes...Article in Springfield News-Sun by By Kelly Mori. October 2, 2008 A team of individuals that includes Scott Moody, a member of the Epilepsy Foundation Kentuckiana's Board of Directors, along with five men and one woman, including videographer, David Kiern, who will be filming their journey during the 18-day trip to Mt. Everest Base Camp starting October 4th.
At nearly 18,000 feet in altitude, Everest Base Camp is the staging area for climbers attempting to summit Mt. Everest, the world's largest peak. The team is practicing leadership principals, including servant leadership, that considers the needs of other individuals before self.
 The team has chosen to support the Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana. David's goal is to incorporate the team's journey with the journey of Alex Harpole, an eight-year old who has a severe form of epilepsy called Dravet's Syndrome. He will be making three DVDs, one of the team's journey, one of Alex and his journey with epilepsy, and one integrating both journeys together to raise epilepsy awareness and funds.
Alex, his parents Carrie and Paul, and Deb McGrath of the Epilepsy Foundation Kentuckiana got to meet the team and thank them for their commitment to make a difference in the lives of others living with epilepsy, like Alex.
The team realizes Alex will never be able to climb a mountain, so they are climbing it for him and every other child and adult living with epilepsy. And here's a video of Alex and Lady.
  September 2008
Thought you'd like seeing these. We went to the state capitol to have a photo taken with the Governor (Sonny Perdue) who signed a proclamation for FASD Awareness Day.
Both Chancer and Iyal were wonderful!
September 26, 2008. Paws with a Cause Fundraiser to be held October 19. Downers Grove, Illinois. Therapy Dogs Helping Autistic & Disabled Children.
According to the latest US census, there are 52 million Americans, including children,
with disabilities.
Those who live with a myriad of physical and mental conditions can be
substantially limited in their major life activities. As tools, assistance dogs are made
available to help increase community acceptance and participation of people with
disabilities.
By facilitating increased participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life, we strengthen society by assuring the diversity of its active members Click here to read flyer of entire event! 4 Paws 10th Anniversary Coming up Tuesday, October 14! Please help us celebrate the 10th Anniversary of 4 Paws for Ability, Inc. Tuesday, October 14, 2009 | 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 20th Century Theatre, 3021 Madison Road | Cincinnati, OH 45209
Evening will include: Food and beverages, cash bar, silent auction,
raffle, music and more!
Pet 4 Paws service dogs and hear firsthand how children and adults
with disabilities have changed as a result of getting a service dog. Meet CNN Hero, Karen Shirk, Founder of 4 Paws.
All proceeds benefit 4 Paws for Ability, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, in its
efforts to keep up with the rising number of applications due to national media coverage
this year on Good Morning America, The Morning Show with Mike & Juliette and CNN.
Please help us celebrate the 10th Anniversary of 4 Paws for Ability, Inc.
$20.00 adult | $10.00 child or just donate if you can't join us. Pay online by October 7th. To read further details about the 10th Anniversary, click here. August 14, 2008 RedOrbit.com, A Dog of a Deal From Qantas. A mix-up that has left three Waikato families facing large bills for the transportation of specially trained dogs from the US has shown Qantas treats its customers with about as much respect as the pooches it was flying.
After two years of fundraising for the autism assistance dogs to help their children with behavioural issues, the families face more heartache in the form of an unexpected $33,000 bill for flying the dogs from Los Angeles.
August 11, 2008 Waikato Times, New Zealand, Cash aid kicks off for Autism Assistance dogs' costs, Donations have already begun rolling in for the three Waikato families left with a $33,000 bill after Qantas blocked their Autism Assistance dogs from being taken aboard a plane at Los Angeles Airport. But the airline itself has not fronted up. Blog by Forsythe Qantas: Service Dogs Not Allowed August 9, 2008 New Zealand Herald. $33K bill after dogs banned from flight. Three Waikato families are facing a bill of $33,000 after three dogs being brought to New Zealand to help autistic patients were banned from a Qantas flight in Los Angeles. August 9, 2008 Channel 3 News, New Zealand, Article and Video about Airline drama for dearly beloved dogs Dogs that help people with autism have arrived in New Zealand for the first time but not without an unexpected drama with their flight. The dogs were blocked from boarding a Qantas flight in Los Angeles - a mixup that will cost their owners more than $34,000. August 9, 2008 Waikato Times, New Zealand, Flight is worse than their bark By Natalie Akoorie. Three Waikato families have been stung with a $33,000 bill after the Autism Assistance dogs they spent two years fundraising for were blocked from boarding a Qantas flight at Los Angeles Airport. August 9, 2008 Waikato Times, New Zealand, New friends to stand by us by Peter Drury. Life and learning will never be the same for Sloan Ewens, 6, and Sara Pairaudeau, 9, thanks to their new Autism Assistance dogs Woogie and Maddy. Waikato Times chief photographer Peter Drury followed the Hamilton children from the moment they received the dogs from the 4 Paws For Ability centre in Ohio, America. July 22, 2008 Shirk named one of CNN's Heroes of 2008. July 18, 2008 TOPEKA, KANSAS Help for Topeka 4-year old Could Come with Four Paws by Melissa Brunner, WIBW.com. If it weren't for the helmet he wears, you wouldn't think JJ Krentz was different from any other four-year old. His mom, Tiffanie, describes him as rambunctious and high energy, always laughing with a big, bright smile. But JJ also has Dravet Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes seizures and cognitive delays. Tiffanie and Kevin don't know when the next seizure might hit....Tiffanie says people can fall from a seizure and suffer a brain injury, or they may suffer one in their sleep "and they don't wake up the next morning." JJ's family is trying to raise $11,000 so they can purchase a dog specially trained to alert them when a seizure is coming on July 16, 2008 CNN taps Karen Shirk as Hero. "It's the magic of dogs. That's how Karen Shirk explains the ability of service dogs to help children suffering from autism. "I'm sure there's some sort of scientific explanation," she says. "But I call it magic." Shirk is featured online, including a story and several videos, and her coverage will get a brief intro July 17 on The Larry King Live Show on CNN. July 11, 2008 BUDD LAKE, NEW JERSEY Man's best friend may help kids with autism by Julie O'Connor of the New Jersey Star Ledger. Will Polak is the rare 7-year-old who hates toy stores. After about 15 minutes in the shopping cart, his parents say the low ceilings, other children or toy selection can overwhelm him to the point of a meltdown. And when their son screams, hits himself or flails around, other shoppers don't understand Will is autistic and having a bad day. To help him cope, his parents are seeking help -- from an $11,000 service dog. June 28, 2008 MAYVILLE, MICHIGAN Autism: The ‘roller coaster’ ride by Courtney Rabideau, Tuscola County Advertiser. "Braeden Ball is giggling as his mother, Cyndi, tickles him on a routine Tuesday morning. After playing with foam letters covered in applesauce, Braeden runs around the pool with excitement, anticipating the time when he can finally get in. Like any other six-year-old boy, Braeden also loves wrestling with his older brother, Dylan, and spending time in front of the television. But, unlike most six-year-old boys, Braeden has autism, a developmental disorder that has placed his family on what his father, John, describes as a 'constant roller coaster.'" June 22, 2008 CINCINNATI, OHIO. Organization links disabled with therapy dogs "It's Basil's turn now," she says and, guiding Matthew's hand, tosses the red and blue ball to the floor. Basil, a 10-month-old golden retriever, chases the ball and returns it to her. Now, it's Matthew's turn to play," says Powell, who helps her son toss the ball again. The boy laughs as Basil hurries to retrieve the ball, and the game starts all over. Matthew, 7, is severely autistic. He also has cerebral palsy and other medical problems. He uses a feeding tube and often needs a wheelchair. June 13, 2008 NORWALK, OHIO. Teen in need gets new dog, by Aaron Krause: Since June 1, James Griggs has been asking his mother several times a day when he'd receive the e-mail introducing him to his new dog. James, 17, and his parents were just told it's a black Labrador retriever named Takoda, who is almost 1. At James' insistence, his name will be changed to Runner....the canine whose name will soon change will do much more for James than provide companionship. The Norwalk teenager is afflicted with autism, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. June 11, 2008 BUDD LAKE, NEW JERSEYBUDD LAKE, NEW JERSEY No offense to cat lovers out there, but this Budd Lake family has a need only a furry canine can fulfill, and they need your help. Bill and Roberta Polak are raising funds on behalf of 4 Paws For Ability, a non-profit organization specializing in training and placement of service dogs for disabled children. The Polaks are committed to raising $11,000, the cost of training an autism service dog for their 7-year-old son, Will. Flanders, New Jersey News. June 5, 2008 Man's Best Friend Becomes Autistic Children's Best Friend by Betsey Bruce, KTVI-My Fox St Louis. Man's best friend is now doubling as parents' best friend when the family has a child with autism. Service dogs trained for specific children become companions and nannies watching over their charges. The dogs know to keep the disabled child in a safe area, away from cars. Should the autistic child wander away many of the dogs are trained in search and rescue techniques and can find them quickly. June 4, 2008 Service dog denied to school. In May, CBS 3 Springfield news showed a story about a seven year old Chicopee boy who, after much fundraising, finally received a service dog to help him with his disabilities. But his mother is fighting another battle, to get the service dog allowed into school. But the one place Kita can't be with Adam, is at school. Sue Byczko began asking Chicopee school officials last fall about bringing his service dog into school, but she was denied. "No one has given me any documentation to prove that having the dog with Adam during the school day would in anyway have a positive impact on either his health safety, or access to the educational program," said Richard Rege, the Superintendent of Chicopee Public Schools. Article and accompanying video from CBS3, Springfield. June 3, 2008 Service dogs join the fight against autism by Karen Meyer. Service dogs have done wonders for people with physical, hearing and visual impairments. Now they are helping children with autism. Although, service dogs for families dealing with autism is relatively a new therapeutic tool, it is making a difference for a preschooler who attends Benson Primary School in Itasca. Five-year-old Zachary Woosley and Gemini, a two-year-old chocolate lab, have been together over year. ABC 7, Chicago. May 27, 2008 Bill 767 aka "Jake's Law" into Maryland state law. To view the details of the law, click here. The law extends the rights and privileges currently afforded to blind and deaf individuals to ALL individuals with disabilities as well as to the parents of a minor child with a disability. And here's more coverage on this issue:
Seizure alert dogs, owners will now get equal access. May 23, 2008 Mans best friend is changing the life of a 7 year-old Chicopee boy. Kita isn't your average dog. Though she catches balls and loves treats, she also has a nose for sensing when Adam Byczko needs help. "She was trained in scent discrimination," explained Sue Byczko, Adam's mother. Adam is diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome. He has limited speech, autistic tendencies, and two years ago, began having seizures. Article and accompanying video from CBS3, Springfield. May 13, 2008 Click here to go directly to the Autism Dog article: Note: This article is only accessible through the above link for 7 days from the date of this e-mail. After that it can be found in Ivanhoe's archive using the "Search Reports" box on the left side of every page of http://www.ivanhoe.com. May 11, 2008 Helping paws by Linda Ann Chomin. Pam Williams was joking when she first mentioned getting a dog to pull son Daniel off the fence when he tries escaping the back yard. She knew about the different tasks Leader Dogs perform to keep blind and visually impaired people safe so why not autistic children. Williams went to the Web and found 4 Paws for Ability in Ohio. The nonprofit agency trains service animals to meet the special needs of people with disabilities. May 2008 A boy and his dog: Service animal can accompany boy with autism almost anywhere, except school. Sunday, May 11, 2008, by Rebecca Droke. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Jiffy, an 18-month-old black Labrador retriever mix, is a professionally trained skilled autism service dog who accompanies 8-year-old Bradley Dallatore almost everywhere, including visits to his dentist and doctor. Jiffy also regularly goes to church, restaurants and shops with the Canton boy and his family. But Jiffy has been barred from the Trinity West Elementary School, where Bradley is a first-grader in a special education class for children with autism. April 2008 Seizure Detecting Canine. WHITE COUNTY -- Amy Weasel's now 4-year-old son Bryant is one of only about 600 people in the U.S. diagnosed with a seizure disorder called Dravet. "He had his first seizure when he was 3-months-old, and from that time he's gotten worse," said Weasel. Article and accompanying video from WSIL TV. April 2008: Decision won't be made in a 'Jiffy', by Dawn Keller, Observer-Reporter.
Trinity Area School Board members allowed a family with a service dog to attend their meeting Thursday but said that doesn't automatically mean the dog can come to school.
April 2008: Special Dog - Autistic son needs your help, by Diana LaMattina, Cayuga County News...Alec Rowley jumps up from playing a Sesame Street video game and flaps a cloth tape measure in front of his face while skipping around his Seneca Falls living room. His parents, Bob and Kari Rowley, watch as their 5-year-old son "stims" - a slang term for a self-stimulatory behavior that provides sensory stimulation for people with autism. April 2008: Autistic Boy Banned From Taking Dog To Trinity School. WXPI.com says 7-year-old Bradley Dallatore has autism and “Jiffy,” his service dog, helps calm his frustrations and anxieties. Dallatore’s parents have filed a complaint after they said the Trinity School District banned Bradley from bringing Jiffy to school. April 2008. Parents of autistic son with service dog file complaint. The parents who aren't permitted to bring a service dog to school for their 7-year-old autistic son have filed a complaint against Trinity School District with the U.S. Department of Justice. By Dawn Keller, Observer-Reporter. April 2008. Anchorage Alaska, KTTU Channel 2: Red Cross recognizes 'Real Heroes'.Though they think of themselves as ordinary Alaskans, the Red Cross prefers to call them heroes. The Red Cross of Alaska held its annual Real Heroes breakfast Tuesday, honoring 17 people and one pet for saving or bettering the lives of others. When shots rang out at the Dimond Center...
And here is the Channel 2 video.
April 2008.Woodstock: Canine caretakers in class? Northwest Herald article by Jenn Wiant. Like other 6-year-olds, Maggie Oefelein sometimes gets distracted and wanders away from her parents. And when something upsets her, she screams. But as an autistic child, Maggie does not respond when her parents call her, and her meltdowns can be more frequent and severe than those of another child, said her father, John. April 2008. Parents claim Trinity illegally blocking service dog from school By Dawn Keller, Observer-Reporter. Trinity Area School District officials will not allow the mother of an autistic boy to enter his school building if she brings his service dog. Click to read more... April 2008. Family Of Autistic Boy Battle School Over Service Animal: NORTH FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- A Washington County community kicked in $13,000 to buy a specially trained dog for a little boy battling autism, but his school won't let the dog inside the building. Click here for the full article... April 2008. Boy’s best friend: Marietta Times, by Connie Cartmell. "The newcomer" says this article about a child's new Autism Assistance Dog, "joins Beth Ann and Toby Eddy, their children, Craven, 5, and Coe, 4, and a cranky Chihuahua determined to see the interloper out the back door, over the hill, and gone forever. The new guy’s name is Smokie and he’s staying. Read more... - April 2008. Service Dogs May Help Autistic Children: Many Parents Who Spoke to ABC News Raved About Their Experience With the Dog Therapy
By Bob Woodruff. Jennifer Plunk, mother of autistic child Matthew Plunk, finally began research that led her to 4 Paws for Ability, "...one of several organizations that trains and places dogs to work specifically with autistic children, helping them to become calmer, more social, and more comfortable in the world."
- April 2008. Service Dogs Aid Some Autistic Children: ABC News highlights nine U.S. children who own service dogs.
- April 2008. ABC News Video: Canine Companions for Autistic Kids: Specially trained dogs help autistic children connect with their environment.
- March 2008. Dog helps 10-year-old function. According to The Ironton Tribune, "Trevor Hall is 10 years old, but unlike many other children his age, his autism has led to a somewhat sheltered life. Visiting public places and just going to school used to cause complete meltdowns, Trevor’s mother, Angel, said." Read the entire article here...
- March 2008. Article on Dale Wooley and 4 Paws for Abiliy. "Dale Wooley is just like any other 7-year-old boy," says the White Mountain Independent. "He loves to ride his bike, play video games and not a day goes by without him talking about his favorite thing - transformers." Read the entire article here...
- March 2008. Having Faith in Fur and 4 Paws for My Son with FASD "Since receiving our son’s diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, we have been humbled in ways we could never have expected." Read more... "FASD is like the undertow...it lies in relative silence beneath the surface of the individual gathering its energy and force. Marked by co-existing disorders and peculiar characteristics, the ebb and flow of these behaviors are not exactly invisible, but can remain hidden. Some symptoms can be as gentle as a tide or swell like a tidal wave, engulfing the individual and often the caregivers or family."
- Kentucky House of Representatives honors Alex Harpole and Service Dog, Lady, on March 5, 2008. Special recognition was given to Alex and Lady because Alex was selected by the National Epilepsy Foundation to represent Kentucky in a face-to-face meeting with lawmakers in Washington D.C., to discuss desperately needed help for children with disabilities. Alex, who has an extremely rare form of epilepsy called Dravet's Syndrome, and his mother, Carrie, will share their first-hand knowledge of what support is lacking and what is needed. Click here to see Lady's certificate, and click here to see Alex's certificate. And click here to see a video about Alex and Lady.
- 8-year-old finds new friend in specially trained German Shepherd Heroes come in all ages, races, shapes, sizes - and species, says KYPOST.com on March 1,2008: "Meet one who is only 18 months old, weighs 65 pounds, has tan and black fur, four legs and shining eyes the color of dark chocolate. Her name, Lady, fits her perfectly because she is everything it implies: gentle, responsible, helpful and loyal."
- Football 4 Paws: Fundraiser at North Forsyth benefits autism dog organization
- Dogs help children with autism be independent: The Urbana Daily Citizen
- Canine caregivers help autistic kids: Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- Highly trained dogs offer new life to autistic children:Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- Editorial: When man's best friend became a boy's new hope: Fond du Lac Reporter
- Four-legged friend: Hurricane family brings autism-assistance service dog home: The Charleston (WV) Gazette
- Local family hopes special dog can assist autistic son: Salem Times-Commoner
- Volvo for Life Award
- Autism Epidemic: The Gainesville Sun with photo of Leo and Halo
- Anchorage Daily News: Rescuing a life. Lovable pooch brings smiles to child's face, comfort to his family
- Four-legged friend comforts autistic boy: KTTU 2 News
- Paws with a Cause: Interview with Karen Shirk by Cincinnati.com
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