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Children's Nonfiction Dogs

The Right Dog for the Job

Ira's Path from Service Dog to Guide Dog

by (author) Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

Publisher
Bloomsbury USA
Initial publish date
May 2004
Category
Dogs
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9780802789143
    Publish Date
    May 2004
    List Price
    $19.99

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Where to buy it

Out of print

This edition is not currently available in bookstores. Check your local library or search for used copies at Abebooks.

Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels

  • Age: 8 to 12
  • Grade: 3 to 7

Description

Ira was not born to be an ordinary dog. A few weeks after his birth, a foster puppy trainer with PawsAbilities, Canine Partners for People with Disabilities, took him home to begin his training as a Service Dog. Service dogs help people who have a lot of difficulty moving around on their own. To become one, Ira must learn how to retrieve dropped keys; press a wheelchair sign to open doors; ride a bus; sit quietly in loud, distracting places; and do many other difficult tasks. Not many dogs can do all that!

Fortunately, Ira is smart and confident, and he is able to pass his Service Dog test. Unfortunately, the new facility that Ira needs to attend for more detailed training isn't ready. What will happen to Ira? Will he be able to learn a new career as a Guide Dog for the Blind?

-This true story shows the immense impact service and guide dogs have on the lives of the disabled, and what it takes for them to have that impact.

- Adorable, full-color photographs bring children into Ira's life and let them connect with him in a very personal way.

- See how sixth graders helped train Ira, and hear how they felt about the experience.

About the author

Contributor Notes

Dorothy Hinshaw PatentandWilliam Muñoz have worked together on a number of photo-essays, includingHomesteading and the acclaimedWest by Covered Wagon, whichSchool Library Journalstarred as "a handsomely designed and well-conceived piece of non-fiction."

Dorothy lives in Montana with her husband, and William lives in British Columbia with his family.

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