Retrieving Mobility Aids

(e.g., Wheelchair, Cane)

Introduction

Retrieving mobility aids involves training a service dog to fetch and deliver assistive devices such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, or crutches to the handler. This task is especially beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty reaching or moving to their mobility aids due to physical limitations. By having the dog retrieve these items, the handler gains increased independence and convenience in daily activities.

Cues

• Verbal Cue: Commands like "Fetch cane," "Get wheelchair," or "Bring walker."
• Hand Signal: Pointing or gesturing towards the mobility aid.
• Environmental Cue: The absence of the mobility aid within the handler's immediate reach or the handler preparing to move without it.

Training Phases

Phase 1: Teaching

Step 1: Item Recognition

• Goal: Teach the dog to identify and differentiate between various mobility aids.
• Action:
  • Introduce each mobility aid individually to the dog.
  • Allow the dog to sniff and investigate the item to become familiar with its scent and appearance.
  • Use a unique verbal cue for each item (e.g., "Cane," "Wheelchair").
• Reward:
  • Praise and treat the dog for showing interest in the item upon hearing its name.

Step 2: Basic Fetch Command

• Goal: Train the dog to perform the basic fetch behavior with different objects.
• Action:
  • Start with a familiar object like a favorite toy.
  • Give the command "Fetch" and encourage the dog to pick up the item.
  • Gradually introduce mobility aids into the fetch training.
• Reward:
  • Offer immediate praise and a treat when the dog picks up and brings the item to you.

Step 3: Specific Retrieval

• Goal: Associate specific commands with each mobility aid.
• Action:
  • Place the mobility aid a short distance away.
  • Use the specific verbal cue (e.g., "Fetch cane") and point towards the item.
  • Encourage the dog to retrieve the item and bring it to you.
• Reward:
  • Praise and reward the dog when they successfully retrieve the correct item upon command.

Phase 2: Reinforcing

Step 4: Increasing Distance

• Goal: Train the dog to retrieve items from greater distances.
• Action:
  • Gradually increase the distance between you and the mobility aid.
  • Practice in various locations within the home.
• Reward:
  • Continue to praise and reward the dog for successful retrievals at each new distance.

Step 5: Introducing Obstacles

• Goal: Teach the dog to navigate around or over obstacles to retrieve items.
• Action:
  • Place simple obstacles between the dog and the mobility aid, such as furniture or boxes.
  • Use the specific command and encourage the dog to find a way to retrieve the item.
• Reward:
  • Offer high-value treats for overcoming challenges and successfully bringing the item.

Step 6: Differentiating Between Multiple Items

• Goal: Ensure the dog can distinguish between different mobility aids.
• Action:
  • Place multiple items in the same area.
  • Give the command for a specific item.
  • If the dog picks up the wrong item, gently guide them to the correct one without reward.
• Reward:
  • Praise and reward the dog when they retrieve the correct item upon command.

Phase 3: Proofing

Step 7: Practicing in Different Environments

• Goal: Generalize the behavior across various settings.
• Action:
  • Practice retrieval tasks in different rooms, outdoors, or in public spaces if appropriate.
  • Include environments where the mobility aid might typically be located.
• Reward:
  • Reinforce the behavior consistently in each new environment.

Step 8: Introducing Distractions

• Goal: Ensure the dog remains focused despite external stimuli.
• Action:
  • Add distractions such as other people, pets, or noises during training sessions.
  • Maintain the command and encourage the dog to focus on the task.
• Reward:
  • Praise the dog for successfully retrieving the item despite distractions.

Step 9: Simulating Real-Life Scenarios

• Goal: Prepare the dog for practical application of the skill.
• Action:
  • Practice situations where the mobility aid is partially hidden or in an unusual place.
  • Simulate urgency by calling for the item from another room.
• Reward:
  • Offer high-value rewards for successful retrievals in challenging scenarios.

Phase 4: Maintenance

Step 10: Regular Use

• Goal: Keep the skill sharp and reliable.
• Action:
  • Incorporate retrieval tasks into daily routines.
  • Use the dog’s assistance whenever you need your mobility aid.
• Reward:
  • Continue to offer praise and occasional treats to reinforce the behavior.

Step 11: Updating Training with New Items

• Goal: Ensure the dog can retrieve new or different mobility aids as needed.
• Action:
  • Introduce any new equipment using the same training steps.
  • Assign unique verbal cues if necessary.
• Reward:
  • Reinforce the dog’s efforts to learn and retrieve new items.

Step 12: Positive Reinforcement

• Goal: Maintain the dog's motivation and enthusiasm for the task.
• Action:
  • Provide consistent positive feedback for successful retrievals.
  • Use affection, playtime, or favorite activities as additional rewards.
• Reward:
  • Vary rewards to keep the dog engaged and prevent boredom.

Common Misconceptions

• Misconception: Dogs will naturally fetch items without specific training.
  • Clarification: While some dogs may enjoy fetching, reliably retrieving specific items on command requires targeted training to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Misconception: Once trained, the dog doesn't need ongoing practice.
  • Clarification: Regular practice is essential to maintain the dog's skills and responsiveness. Ongoing training ensures reliability, especially in unfamiliar environments or with new items.
• Misconception: Any dog can be trained to retrieve heavy or awkward items.
  • Clarification: The dog's size, strength, and comfort with handling objects must be considered. Not all dogs are physically capable of retrieving certain mobility aids safely.

Parent Coaching Tips

• Clear Commands
  • Action: Use distinct names for each mobility aid to avoid confusion. Ensure everyone interacting with the dog uses the same terminology.
• Patience is Key
  • Action: Be patient; it may take time for the dog to learn to handle awkward or heavy items. Practice consistently and celebrate small successes.
• Item Safety
  • Action: Ensure the mobility aids are safe for the dog to handle—no sharp edges, not too heavy, and appropriate for the dog's size.
• Positive Environment
  • Action: Keep training sessions upbeat and stress-free to encourage the dog's willingness to perform. End sessions on a positive note.
• Monitor for Discomfort
  • Action: Watch for signs of discomfort or reluctance when handling certain items. If the dog is struggling, reassess the item’s suitability or modify the approach.
• Consistency in Training
  • Action: Practice regularly and reinforce the behavior consistently to build reliability.

Tools Needed

• Mobility Aids for Training
  • Description: Use the actual cane, walker, wheelchair, or other mobility aids that the handler uses daily.
• Training Aids
  • Description: Items like clickers, target sticks, or treat pouches to facilitate learning and make training more efficient.
• Rewards
  • Description: High-value treats or favorite toys to reinforce positive behavior. Choose rewards that are especially motivating for your dog.
• Appropriate Retrieval Equipment
  • Description: For larger items like wheelchairs, use ropes or straps attached to the item to allow the dog to pull it safely.
• Non-Slip Grips (Optional)
  • Description: Attach non-slip materials to handles or areas where the dog will grasp to make it easier and safer for them to pick up items.
• Professional Training Support

Description: Access to a professional trainer experienced in service dog tasks can provide valuable guidance, especially if challenges arise.