Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that they and their kids will develop an increased respect for dogs' intelligence after watching the animals' skill at jobs in which humans wouldn't out-qualify them. This series is a great way to introduce kids to the idea of a "working dog" so that they can recognize and respect those they might meet in everyday life. The show also celebrates the emotional connection between humans and companion animals by highlighting their special level of co-dependence and cooperation.
Families can talk about how the dogs are selected for certain jobs. What traits do the trainers seek out for certain jobs? What special skills or natural features (size, strength, hearing, eyesight) are important? What are some of your special skills? What jobs might they make you suited for? Parents also should explain the importance of not approaching a working dog on the job.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
DOGS WITH JOBS is a heartwarming tribute to the loving, intelligent, courageous canines worldwide who work beside humans in many capacities. These amazing animals sniff out drugs and bombs, track missing persons, act as eyes for the blind, and provide emotional companionship.
The series explains the placement process for dogs in certain jobs. Specialized trainers in various fields often look for particular breeds, as well as heightened senses and appropriate temperament.
In one episode, for example, viewers met Sweep, an award-winning Border Collie sheep herder in England. Sweep's owner explained that he relied completely on Sweep because of the dog's ability to herd and separate hundreds of sheep using an inborn ability his owner called "the eye." The farmer communicates his needs to Sweep with whistles and words, and the dog stares down the sheep to follow his owner's commands.
Another episode chronicled a project matching trainee dogs with female inmates in a Canadian prison. The prisoners spent months training the dogs as companion, assistant, and service dogs for the elderly and the disabled. The animals were then sent to individuals or to nursing homes where they could help people in physical and emotional need.
Each 30-minute episode usually features the stories of two or three dogs. While the segments' brevity will hold the attention of younger viewers, older ones may find themselves wanting more background or follow-up on the animals.
Dogs With Jobs is a good TV choice for the family -- and if yours includes four-legged friends, it may inspire you to head outside and work out a few new tricks.
Fans may also want to check out The Dog Whisperer and Animal Precinct.
Rate It!
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ViolenceScenes with police dogs may involve guns and gunfire, but it's only for training purposes (i.e., background shooting while the dog learns to keep his concentration). |
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Social BehaviorSome scenes show how elderly people and people with various disabilities experience increased independence with the assistance of trained dogs. The dogs provide valuable services to their owners and society. |
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