WA Canine Caller (service dog dials 911, unlocks door for police when owner falls)

Associated Press / Oregon Live ^ | October 28, 2004

[Stoat]

My hope is that a 'good news' story like this might brighten everyone's day :-)

[steve86]

We're marveling over that pooch here in Richland.

[GSlob]

Well, I myself have once seen a pet raccoon opening a combination lock on a food container. Pretty impressive.

[Michael.SF.]

I think I found a picture of the dog:

[xJones]

Thank you, that is a day- brightener. If my dog knew how to use the phone we'd have barbeque delivered every night, but that's beside the point.:)

[EggsAckley]

Certainly brightened MY day, Stoat. Thanks.

[gentlestrength]

What's frustrating about seizures is that generally there are no warnings. It's fascinating that a dog can sense/smell something, a change in the body chemistry, and be so useful. The owner is so smart to be proactive!

[Ohioan from Florida]

Thanks, it has!

[Pelayo]

bump for dog lovers

[Voss]

Great story, great timing. I needed that. Will share this with others who do, too. Thank you!

[Monti Cello]

Great story, but wtf is bjt??

[JRandomFreeper]

Ping

[Stoat]

"Great story, but wtf is bjt??"

Thanks you :-) I have no idea; that's why I didn't include it in the Free Republic thread title. I'm guessing that it may be some sort of typo.

[Alouette]

If you can't view the picture here is the link to the story.

[Still German Shepherd]

Amazing. Arf.

[paltz]

What's frustrating about seizures is that generally there are no warnings. It's fascinating that a dog can sense/smell something, a change in the body chemistry, and be so useful. The owner is so smart to be proactive

Indeed. As a side note, though it's important to point out to those who don't know any better. If you see anyone having a seizure after you call 911... 1. DO NOT stick anything in their mouth(it's an old wive's tale that they swallow their tounges and you can make the situation worse by causing choking

2. CLEAR the area of objects that can hurt the person while he/she is having a seizure

3. CUSHION the head of the person so the do not get a concussion while the seizure is happening

4. DO NOT restrain the person from movements during the seizure...just let it run it's course and protect them from foreign objects in the area.

5. MAKE sure their mouth is not obstructed in anyway so they do not choke on flem or vomit.

[Gigantor]

Excellent story - and a very good thing this didn't happen in Tennesee or the cops would have quickly shot the dog for being off leash.

[gentlestrength]

If someone calls 911 and they take the seizing person to the ER, if the person doesn't have insurance, the ER has to let them in, but doesn't the ER still try to bill the person? So, if you have no insurance and don't want a big bill, would a wristband with instructions not to take me to the ER be the key?

[gentlestrength]

If someone calls 911 and they take the seizing person to the ER, if the person doesn't have insurance, the ER has to let them in legally, but doesn't the ER still try to bill the person? So, if you have no insurance and don't want a big bill, would a wristband with instructions not to take me to the ER be the key?