Doug and Tanner started training classes in 2008.  Together they attended weekly classes and worked diligently toward their Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog International certifications.  Doug and Tanner started with the very basics of sit, stay, down and watch me.  Once Doug felt comfortable with the basics, he and Tanner went on mini-field trips to local hardware stores once or twice each week.  They started slowly and gradually worked up to longer visits and during times when the store was more crowded.  When Doug had concerns, he worked with the Helping Hounds team at his weekly classes to address them and develop a plan to work through them. 

Doug and Tanner worked hard together and, in the summer of 2009, passed their Service Dog Certification public access test.  They are now able to go everywhere together and Tanner is a constant help to Doug.  Doug has become a mentor with the Helping Hounds Program so that he and Tanner can help other veterans.  They're also looking forward to visiting local VA hospitals together.