SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAMS
OUR THREE MAIN BRANCHES OF THEREAPY
Deep Pressure Therapy
To help handlers reorient during anxiety attacks and PTSD-related episodes, The Hortence Project trains its service dogs in deep pressure therapy and grounding techniques.
Deep pressure therapy involves the dog applying steady, consistent pressure to its handler. Repositioning prompts the handler to move by having the dog place itself in a position that requires adjustment. Tactile grounding helps redirect attention from anxiety through physical contact from the dog
Public Access Training
A service dog can only be effective when it remains focused on its handler, especially in public. K-9 psychiatric service animals must be able to work without distraction throughout the day. To build this focus and strengthen public-access skills, The Hortence Project certifies its Dogs in the AKC Community Canine (CGCA) program, AKC Urban CGC (CGCU), and AKC Virtual Home Manners (VHM) program.
Safety and Navigation
We train dogs in safety and navigation techniques, useful during episodes of disorientation. Two types of this technique include: guarding, where a dog positions itself in front, to the side, or behind the handler to create a physical buffer in an overwhelming environment, and guiding, where a dog identifies signs of distress or escalating anxiety and leads the handler to an exit