HOMELESS: SUPPORT DOG NEEDS HANDICAPPED MASTER

Flint, a specially trained service dog, needs a home.

The agency that trained Flint and dozens of other service dogs like him to help disabled persons with everyday tasks has a long waiting list. But no one on the list has needs that match Flint's extraordinary skills.

His new owner should be in a manual wheelchair with moderate upper-body movement, weigh 160 pounds or less, and be able to spend most of the month of August or November in St. Louis getting to know what Flint can do.

Support Dogs Inc. of St. Louis, is an international agency that has been training dogs to help disabled persons for 15 years.

Marie Davis, executive director for Support Dogs Inc., explained that the key to a successful relationship between a dog and person is a good match in the beginning. The agency has some people on the list who almost match with Flint, but they prefer to find a good fit.

"Why give a Rolls Royce to someone who needs a Taurus," Davis said.

The Support Dogs organization, has a continuous flow of puppies training to become service dogs. The dogs are evaluated for temperament and the type of work they enjoy doing. While the dogs are being trained, the organization looks for people whose needs match the dogs' skills.

"He is an exceptional dog who hasn't matched with the needs of the applicants we presently hold," Davis said.

Flint has a very high level of energy, Davis said. He needs someone with some upper body strength who is able to hold a leash. Flint isn't patient enough to walk alongside someone who needs help balancing, but would be suited to pulling a wheelchair up inclines.

A medical screening and personal interview are required before a dog can be placed.

Once a match is made, the person will come for 30 days of team training with the dog. The team will learn what to do in everyday situations, unusual situations and trouble situations. They will go on an elevator, on a bus, to the museum and to Six Flags amusement park.

In addition, when the match is made, trainers will determine what specialized skills Flint needs to learn. Dogs can be trained to carry briefcases, fold laundry or take socks off.

"We have dogs so gentle with retrieving that they can retrieve a contact lens without damaging the lens," Davis said. "They can pick up the back of an earring. On the other hand, they can bring a two-liter bottle of Coke or pick up your screwdriver if you drop it."

Davis said a dog and owner in Columbia enjoy going to McDonalds restaurant. The dog gives the cashier the money. The cashier gives the dog the bag and the dog carries the bag home and puts it on the table.

The program, including 30 days of training in St. Louis, is free.

Anyone who might fit the criteria for Flint, or who is interested in more information about support dogs can call 314-892-2554 and leave their name, address and phone number, or write Support Dogs Inc., 3958 Union Road., St. Louis, Mo. 63125.