Training updates

Tank’s Training Journey

After interviewing four different trainers, we had a phone consultation with Annie at Reveille K9, and we immediately knew she was the perfect fit. A week later, on July 8, 2026, Tank began his training journey.

Basic Obedience Training

Week 1 – Sit, Down & Recall

Tank learned to sit on command, lie down completely, maintain eye contact, and remain in position until released.

He did an amazing job!

I had an “off” day during our lesson, which caused a little disconnect between us, but with practice at home, Tank mastered these skills very quickly.

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Week 2 – Loose-Leash Walking

For this lesson, we met at the local lake where I do most of my walking.

I was nervous because I am such a tripping hazard, but Tank surprised us once again. He naturally learned where he should walk, maintained eye contact and engagement with me, and stopped in a perfect heel every time I stopped.

Watching him begin to understand his future job was incredible.

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Week 3 – Place

This lesson taught Tank to go to a designated spot and remain there until released.

This skill is especially helpful when visitors come to the door or when he needs to stay calmly out of the way inside the house.

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Week 4 – Leave It, Wait & Recall

This week focused on impulse control.

Tank learned to:

Leave objects alone when asked

Wait patiently until released

Return when called by command instead of waiting for our usual “OK” and nose tap

He continues to amaze us.

One of my favorite moments is watching him patiently wait on the porch while I walk to the car to grab something. He never moves until he’s told.

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A Huge Milestone! 🏅

Tank passed his Basic Obedience Training with flying colors!

Instead of moving into the next level as a family pet, he’ll now begin training wearing his service dog vest as he starts learning the specialized skills he’ll need to become my mobility service dog.

This is the next exciting step toward giving me greater independence and safety.

Service Dog Sessions

Week 1 - Lowes

Tank did great as always. This was his first non pet store experience. We worked on keeping him focused on me and not distractions. We dropped things around him, made noises, opened and closed appliance doors around him, and took him past the Halloween displays. He also walked with me and a shopping cart.

Week 2 - Shopping Mall

This was a lot! I was very tense with so much going on but as always Tank did great. One thing we worked on tucking under tables and under my legs on benches. 

We’re excited to share each milestone along the way. Thank you for following our journey, encouraging us, praying for us, and cheering Tank on!

Week 3 - Bass Pro Shop

This was a huge session. Tank officially got his vest. He does so well being out in public. 

I have been taking him into pet stores and dog friendly places on my own in between sessions. He also got groomed this week. He didn't like standing for as long as it took so he needed a few breaks.