Woman who trains service dogs to help disabled gets 'belled'

What: Ben’s Bells promote kindness and community involvement. Each week a person who makes Tucson better is “belled.”

Last week’s recipient: Phyllis Allen

Nominated by: Darlene Smyth

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Why: Allen, through Savvy Canines of Arizona, taught Smyth and her husband, who is a paraplegic, to train their dog to do many needed service tasks at home and in public places. Their dog is now certified as a service dog through Savvy Canines. Allen has been volunteering her time for more than 30 years, often more than five days per week, to train hundreds of people and their dogs. This is usually one-on-one training, using a clicker with treats and lots of positive reinforcement techniques. Allen will patiently spend as much time as needed with individuals and their dog, in their own home, so they can reach the goals that they have set for themselves. “Phyllis has truly enhanced the lives of many disabled people by generously sharing her time and training talents,” Smyth wrote.

More info and to nominate someone: Go to bensbells.org/BellingForm to submit a name. Go to bensbells.org or call 622-1379 for more information.