Yesterday a friend and I took a drive out through a sunny day into a neighboring, corn field strewn, rural county in Pennsylvania to meet Pam and Ken Turner who own Turner Funeral Homes. They are very fortunate to partner with CCI (Canines Companions for Independence founded in 1975 and the largest nonprofit of its type in the country) in utilizing the many talents of their canine graduate Aragon.

CCI provides 4 types of assistance dogs: Skilled companion dogs, hearing dogs, facility dogs and service dogs. In this particular case, the 3 year old, neutered, Lab/Golden mix will calm others and offer unconditional love while he interacts with members of a family who are grieving the loss of a loved one. During calling hours, the family of the deceased has an option of having Aragon in their presence. Children are especially comforted while the moment is temporarily soothed and distracted by the loving, glossy, big brown eyes and soft furry coat of mankinds best friend. This very special service is a rare treat for Pennsylvanians because rigorous screenings and profiles are taken of the their dogs' new gaurdians and the facility that they will be assisting in.

Aragon is always kept on a leash except when off duty or in a safe, fenced in area. Since he is a working dog, he is always supposed to be near his caregiver or facilitator. As a pup, he was fostered for over a year. He was born in California and went to Kentucky for training and was tested for compatibility and "married" to Pam. Only 3 out of 10 dogs will become certified through their program. The ones that "almost" make the program are then "released" to a welcoming family who will accept him or her as a pet. Some of the reasons for not passing the qualifications are: inability to tolerate the wearing of vests, chasing small animals such as rabbits and the inability to ignore food that is on the ground. As a matter of fact, a dog of with his training and qualifications is valued at $14,000.00 and he is proud to wear his blue and gold vest with is the trademark of CCI. Guests don't need to worry about allergys here at the funeral home because it is vacuumed daily and Aragon is clean as a whistle. Many people will request his presense and word is spreading about his unique service to those in need and has been making headlines across the region.

This home was built in 1900 and originally owned by the Mellon's. It is located at 500 6th street in Ellwood City, Pa about an hour outside of Pittsburgh. It's population is about 6,000. It is clear that Aragon loves his day job and doesn't bark! He is comfortable just taking it easy and relaxing when their are no visitors to greet or console. He knows 40 voice commands and no hand signals. This is because he is supposed to be near his partner at all times so there should be no significant distance from each other which would necessitate a hand command.

Aragon can work as long as he is able and then will retire with the Turners at their home.

Some great news for the Turners-just minutes before our arrival, they learned that Aragon will be featured in the CCI calendar for 2006! As we were leaving the premises, Pam walked outside with us and Aragon stood vigil at the door as we continued talking

            some of CCI's commands and their meanings:

Dress - tells the dog to hold its head still so you can place a collar, vest or harness on

Behind - tells the dog to walk behind you through a doorway or narrow passage

Hurry - tells the dog that this is the time and place to eliminate

Car - tells the dog to jump into a vehicle

www.CCI.org an organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and offering ongoing support

*All dogs from this program are neutered or spayed before placing them for assistance work

Pam Turner and Aragon in the "Lap" command position                             "Up" Position                      

Aragon in the standing "Get" position and the sitting "Get" position

 The "Visit" position.  

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