volunteered and received eightweek-old Anthem . Her job was to socialize Anthem and teach him several commands . The lab / golden mix learned more commands through specialized trainers at the Kinkeade Campus .
As Trista ’ s role was winding down , Anthem and Tate were paired through a matching process at Kinkeade Campus . It was puppy love at first sight . “ Anthem came up to me and immediately started licking my face ,” said Tate , who at the time had a short beard . “ He just kept giving me kisses .”
The Landins ’ home is in Granbury , Texas , but they stayed at the Kinkeade Campus dorms for two weeks while trainers taught Tate how to work with Anthem . All of this led to graduation day , where Tate and Anthem officially graduated from the program — and
Trista tearfully said goodbye to the puppy she had raised .
“ It was definitely hard , but now Anthem needs to go on and do what he was born to do ,” Trista said .
Kinkeade Campus training specialists are currently reviewing applications from more veterans like Tate who could benefit from an assistance dog like Anthem .
The Kinkeade Campus doesn ’ t just serve veterans ; three types of assistance dogs are trained to master more than 40 specialized commands for people living with a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities . Service Dogs assist adults with physical disabilities by performing everyday functions like turning on lights , picking up dropped keys or opening a door ; Skilled Companion Dogs enhance independence for children and adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities ; and Facility Dogs work with a professional in visitation , education , criminal justice or health care setting .
For more information on the Canine Companions for Independence at Baylor Scott & White Health - Kinkeade Campus , contact Sarah Burdi at 214.820.4721 or Sarah . Burdi @ BSWHealth . org .
“ These remarkable dogs not only promote physical independence , but they also provide an undeniable therapeutic effect on these proud , brave men and women .”
— Aaron Kozmetsky
Jessica and Tate Landin with Anthem
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