Thanks to a generous grant provided by the Erie Elks Lodge 67, K-9 Coaches was a huge success in 2011 and 2012 and we look forward to continuing our program in 2013.

K-9 Coaches brings the sport of agility to the treatment of autism.  This innovative program is an enjoyable, tier-structured 6-week program aimed to improve independence through self-confidence as well as: mobility through physical interaction; communication through verbal and non-verbal instruction to the partner canine; promotion of self-interaction while increasing social behaviors/decreasing stereotypical behaviors.

Class participants work in stations to reinforce traditional canine obedience, simple canine agility and basic canine rally. 

Class size is limited and reserved for children and young adults, ages 4 to 21 with autism (ASD) or Asperger syndrome.  If you feel your chilld can benefit from this program but is not diagnosed with autism, please contact us for a special permission request.  Requests will be honored based on availability.  All canine partners are certified therapy dogs registered with Therapy Dogs United, Inc.

The Erie ELKS and Therapy Dogs United's team of certified therapy dogs start classes for our Spring 2013 Session on April 25th.  Graduation is June 8th.  Classes will be held at Voices for Independence located on Payne Avenue in Erie (between 10th and 11th Street).  If you have a child eligible for this program, please Email us at TherapyDogsUnited@gmail.com or call (814) 456-3647.

Spring 6 Week Session ~ all classes run from 12 Noon to 1 p.m.

Saturday, April 27        Week One - Meet & Greet
Saturday, May 4            Week Two
Saturday, May 11          Week Three
Saturday, May 18          Week Four
Saturday, May 25          NO CLASS DUE TO PERRY 200 PARADE
Saturday, June 1          Week Five
Saturday, June 9          Last Class ~ Graduation Day!
 

To download our 2012 Spring Program flyer, click here

See Photos of our Summer 2011 Graduating Class: