Re; recently clingy

Question
We adopted a male, yellow lab five years ago; so now tenish.  He was on his last day at the shelter. He's been a fabulous family member.  Great with my 12 year old son. Must have been abused; leg is shorter than the others; had it xrayed...it had been broken and healed that way.  Has had a little separation anxiety, I don't work so I am home ALOT so not a big deal.  Last month Bud had a 2lb. tumor removed.  Also, I became very ill/cancer.  Since these two events he has become glued to me.  He won't even go on a walk with my husband or child and he LOVES his walks.  Why the drastic change since these two events?  What can I do?  Thanks for your time and help.

Answer
Hi Elizabeth, Since I am a service and therapy dog trainer, my thoughts go immediately to you and your cancer problem. Dogs not only sense seizures, diabetic changes...but they also can detect cancer cells. I know of a lady who's dog alerts to her cancer. She worked with the dog to give a clear, passive alert and the dog actually "diagnosed" a stranger in a grocery store of breast cancer as the lady passed by them. Never underestimate our canine companions. The surgery she had could have made her insecure, but you did come back for her and she is now home, so usually that type of traumatic separation anxiety will go away quickly. But if she is clinging to you, you should teach her a passive alert. She could easily be a good service dog for you, but her age is not to her advantage. She certainly can learn many things, but your attachment to her will increase dramatically when you have a service dog. Congratulate her for me and give her lots of praise when she is near. If she touches the spot (or near the spot) that you have or did have cancer, praise her and give her a verbal cue (such as "seek" or "touch"). She can be a good gauge in your recovery. Please contact the Delta Society or someone in your area who specializes in training service dogs and explain your situation. If you are receiving radiation or chemotherapy, it can mask her alerts, so please speak with someone who is very experienced in this area. Thank you for writing. Leave me some feedback and a follow-up. You have a wonderful dog and I wish both of you the very best. My prayers will be with you. Warm Regards, Susan