Convincing your parents to let you train military dogs: Emily Cullers at TEDxYouth@Austin

High school sophomore Emily Cullers has had just as much trouble convincing her parents to let her have a pet as any other teenager. Only Emily's love for dogs has allowed her to receive, not one, but two National Presidential Service Awards! At just age 11, Emily single-handedly trained a dog for the disabled and, by age 15, raised two puppies for the Department of Defense later to be trained as Military War Dogs.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[johnunflat]

Great job and such a wonderful thing to do for others. As a veterinarian I have worked with service dogs and know how important they are. It has to be hard to turn in a dog you love but you know that from the start.
SSmokey was wagging his tail and happy to see you!

[dennisadditon]

Well done. Whether it is military dogs or disability, you are helping create a partner for someone to love and trust their lives to. These pups are amazing. I met your mom this weekend. She is very proud of you. Keep up the superb work. God bless. :)

[kyleharris]

That's my cousin! Great job, Emily. Super impressed!