Keystone Human Services, Grantville, PA

A new training facility is the long- awaited hub for staff, volunteers, trainers, partners and canines to work together on tasks utilizing residential and public-style simulations. The Center was built on a horse farm in Grantville that provides multiple acres for the center’s new facility and three play yards. The center’s footprint includes 24 kennels, two training rooms, a common area, a relaxation room, laundry, accessible bathrooms and a simulated elevator. It was designed for multiple groups to use the facility at the same time.

Flexible spaces and their adjacencies were critical for the success of the program. For example, the kitchen was designed for the staff’s convenience and also as a simulation space to train dogs to navigate spaces and appliances while assisting clients as if they are in their own homes. The public-style bathrooms, laundry, steps and simulated elevator are other areas to practice skills. Finally, we designed a small Relaxation Room where humans and canines can relax and bond with each other. Our Interior Designer selected beautiful materials for their durability to withstand the constant training and cleaning, while providing a comforting home and office environment.

The 13,000 sf Robin C. Reedy Training Center fully supports the Susquehanna Service Dogs (SSD) mission to breed, raise, train and place task-oriented labradors and golden retrievers with children and adults with disabilities. Canine careers range to assist clients dealing with autism and psychiatric services to mobility, hearing and seizure response. SSD is part of Keystone Human Services and their mission is to create opportunities for growth and meaningful life choices so all people can be valued, contributing members of their community.

All Photos courtesy of Mike Mihalo Photography