By:  Ashley Smith, Copy Editor

As intimidating as he looks, Cooper the service dog is just another working Rottweiler.

Three-year-old Cooper belongs to Karla Clinch, a full time student at USI who is majoring in psychology.

Clinch has M.S., which forces her to have Cooper, although the apparent bond between the two is definitely not forced. 

Cooper is capable of carrying Clinch’s books if necessary and currently learning how to push elevator buttons.

About two years ago in Vincennes, Clinch came across a gentleman playing with him in a yard.

“I knew then that I wanted him.”  Clinch said.

When the gentleman’s wife found out Clinch wanted the dog, she told her husband to get rid of the then one-year-old Cooper.

“In his words, it was his marriage or the dog,” Clinch said, “I told him to keep the dog.

Fortunately for Clinch, the man chose his marriage and she gained a buddy.

Clinch has been training Cooper since his arrival into her life.  She said, “He still needs some polishing up on some things, but he is a great help.”

Clinch has been training dog full times since 1989.

Clinch said Cooper is easy to train, and he usually only needs to be shown one or two times.  “A reward is just a hug for Cooper,” She said, “All you need to do is reaffirm the love.

If Cooper does what is requested 3 times in a row, Clinch said he knows what he is supposed to do.  She said, “IF he doesn’t do it the fourth time, I have to correct him.  He is just like a kid, when he tries to test me.”

Reactions from the USI students have been wonderful toward Cooper.

“I think one reason everyone loves Cooper, is because students miss their pets at home.” Clinch said.

Cooper is not just well mannered, but he also know English, German and hand commands.  All clinch asks “is for students to ask permission before petting Cooper.:  Since he is working, distractions keep him from doing his job.

Clinch said her first love is not dogs, but horses.  She owns cattle, horses, a cat, and of course, Cooper.  Her disability still allows her to ride, but lifting heavy items gives her a hard time.

She says accessibility at USI is great. “I have been out and about to places like Wal-Mart, but at USI no questions are ever asked.

The 90lb Rottweiler even does some housework for Clinch.

“He helps me pick up laundry and makes the bed.  He even tries to vacuum, but doesn’t do much more than attack the vacuum cleaner.”

Clinch said there are several things you look for when choosing a service dog.

“The dog needs to be willing to learn, loyal, protective and have the ability to learn,” She said, “You should also start training the dog at around 8 weeks of age.”

Clinch plans to orientate her psychology degree around people with disabilities. 

The Rottweiler can be seen along campus making friends and just doing his