A Rinty For Kids Foundation, incorporated ~ ARFkids

Specially selected, bred, and raised Dogs that assist children who have special needs.

These dogs increase independence and offer the loving companionship of a specially trained dog.

Pet Assisted Therapy Dogs provide fewer physical support tasks than a Service Dog for special needs children. However, in many cases having a Pet Assisted Therapy Dog in the home provides the child with ample emotional and comfort support to improve the quality of life of the child.

"ArfKids" is confident in using the meticulously bred Rin Tin Tin descendants for the program as well as other breeds of dogs from many of the nations top breeders which are specifically selected for the program.

"ArfKids" has a specifically designed "Puppy Raising" program to provide a source of good sound, sensible German Shepherd Dogs for the program.

These potential candidates are tested prior to being considered as suitable for the program.

• Physical soundness is most important in a Pet Assited Therapy Dog candidate because of the tasks they will be doing.
• The dogs must be of a good lineage that has accomplished hip and elbow certifications, eye exams and health evaluations.
• They must be people oriented, friendly, and eager to please.
• Candidates must be confident and sensible.
• They must be well socialized and well balanced.

The loving companionship enjoyed with an "ArfKids" Pet Assisted Therapy Dog eases the frustration and loneliness that often accompanies a special need. The dog's happy, playful nature brings joy and activity into the life of a child that may have limited outside playmates. The dog freely offers unconditional love and is a constant source of comfort and friendship.

Still another benefit of a Pet Assisted Therapy Dog are the outdoor activities gained in exercising, practicing skills and playing with the dog. This increases the activity level of many people. Fresh air and exercise helps improve well being and outlook on life.

Caring for another creature and having responsibility creates a sense of self worth. Studies at the University of Pennsylvania have also shown that stroking a dog actually lowers blood pressure, and that people who have a dog recuperate from illnesses faster.

The pet Assisted Therapy Dog is a friend to care for and care about, giving life more meaning and purpose.

"ARFKids" Pet Assisted Therapy Dogs are wonderful icebreakers in public situations; they are beautiful, friendly, and very well behaved.

People will smile, approach and speak to someone accompanied by such a dog. The owner is complimented on his dog and it becomes a source of pride as well as independence. Human to human contact, even though brief, is established. Good, positive feelings are experienced with the help of a dog.

An "ArfKids" Pet Assisted Therapy Dog is life-long commitment and not a responsibility to be taken lightly. The child and immediate family must consider what it means to have a dog accompanying them everywhere they go.

The dog must be able to: 1) relieve himself during the day, no matter what the weather 2) have water, food and be comfortable.

Additionally, the dog will need health care and trips to the veterinarian, grooming, teeth cleaned and nails trimmed. Also, there are costs to consider.

The dog will need exercise and playtime. A dog cannot be set aside until needed and the dog's care must be arranged if its partner is sick or hospitalized.

The family needs to be prepared for barking, shedding, and the presence of a dog in their life. This is a serious commitment and requires careful thought and planning.

"ArfKids" places Pet Assisted Therapy Dogs with special needs children using the lowest fee structure possible to provide quality dogs and quality service for the clients. A non-refundable application donation of $25 is required when the application is submitted, and once approved as a recipient family, a donation of $1,500 is required for a Pet Assisted Therapy Dog candidate puppy. Some ongoing expenses will be incurred by the family that may include, but not be limited to, food, some training supplies, regular veterinary visits, transportation and travel.

Generallly, Pet Assisted Therapy Dogs do Not have the same right of access as Service Dogs.

Service Dogs have access to transportation on buses, trains and planes. A person may have his Service Dog accompany him at work, school, or anywhere else he/she may go. They cannot be denied public housing or charged extra rent for their dog.

Almost every state has an access law granting access to people with disabilities and their Service Dogs, Hearing Dogs, or Guide Dogs.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a Federal Law covering this same access. A person with a Service Dog, in return, is responsible for their dog's behavior in public places.

The Service Dog should be unobtrusive, quiet and, always under control. Other people should NEVER pet or distract a Service, Hearing or Guide Dog in public.

A visible symbol of a Pet Assisted Therapy Dog is a specially designed "jacket" depicting the ARFkids logo. "ArfKids" jackets are various colors, depending on the stage of training of the dog and have a photo ID card on the top. The back of the ID card has a copy of the current rabies certificate.