I have been volunteering for Ambassador Assistance Animals International since September, 2007. I help work with the service dogs, training them to be accustomed to things such as my wheelchair and pulling it.
    My work also benefits people who don't know much about service dogs. Some people don't know that service dogs are working animals and should not be distracted. It is important that they know what is appropriate around service dogs. For example, some children lack inhibition and automatically attempt to pet service dogs; this is a distraction, and parents must be informed.

Benefits of my volunteer service, and having a service dog of my own:

* I enjoy working with service dogs
* I have a service dog of my own, and it helps maintain her training
* It benefits disabled people who will get a service dog
* It helps keep up with training dogs that are already service dogs
* Having my service dog helps me to be more independent