Testimonial from Elaine Smith, founder of Therapy Dogs International:

CLICK HERE to view image of Elaine Smith's letter

First let me tell you about myself and my part in the Service dog Program so you can understand that I have a clear understanding of what is needed to train these dogs and the knowledge to assess Mr. Cohen's ability to train these dogs.

While living in England in 1997, I attended resident dog training and behavior seminars.  Upon returning to the United States I started taking my German Shepherd dog to nursing homes, etc. since I saw the benefits of this therapy while in England.

Shortly afterwards I founded the organization of THERAPY DOGS INTERNATIONAL and certified dogs for this use.  We continued to grow and now have approximately to six thousand members.

I consider Mr. Cohen to be an excellent dog trainer for the handicapped.  He served in the United States Marine Corp[s] and it was while he was in the service that he learned to train dogs.  After completing his service with the Marine Corp[s] in 1992 he obtained and trained dogs (mostly German Shepherd Dogs) for the handicapped.

Mr. Cohen always had a German Shepherd Dog for demonstrations and would take the dog to schools and senior citizen centers to show what a service dog could do.

Since his parents are both handicapped, Mr. Cohen has special feelings and understanding concerning handicapped people, their needs and their rights.

I consider Mr. Cohen a knowledgeable and an outstanding person for training Service Dogs and I hold him in the highest esteem.

Please feel free to call me if you have any further questions regarding Mr. Cohen and his ability to train dogs.

Sincerely yours,

Elaine Smith