The stay at home order has disrupted the trainings of assistance dogs that are critical for people with disabilities, but three Grand Rapids not-for-profit organizations are now working to train assistance dogs during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Assistance dogs help those with mental and physical disabilities complete daily tasks and increase their independence.
Paws With A Cause, YWCA of West Central Michigan and Community Food Club have teamed up to provide necessary training for assistance dogs who cater to people with disabilities. The arrangement has allowed for the dog training during the current stay-at-home order in Michigan.
In order to restart the dogs’ training, the YWCA is sharing space in its Sheldon building, at 25 Sheldon Blvd. SE, where dogs learn practical skills to assist Paws With A Cause clients.
“We are pleased to partner with Paws With A Cause, who shares our commitment to accessibility for all,” YWCA CEO Charisse Mitchell said in a press release. “Service animals can be a wonderful resource for individuals with disabilities, including clients we work with at the YWCA.”
