Ava continues her training to become a Therapy Dog!

Nicolette and Kristin are learning how to take care of Ava.

Last Wednesday, August 25th, Ava went home with her new family, the Alvandians. Afie (mom), Greg (dad), Nicolette (10 years old) and Kristin (5 years old) had been looking for a dog for a while. They were waiting for the perfect dog for their family. "I guess it was worth the wait," states Afie. "She is just wonderful! We are very happy to have adopted her".

Nicolette is learning the handling skills necessary to work with a therapy dog.

The Alvandians are also happy to continue Ava's training to become a therapy dog! With the help of Sharon Vincuilla and the staff of K9s Only they will continue to practice basic obedience and learn what it takes to be members of the Lend A Paw program. So, on Saturday, August 28th, I met with Afie, Nicolette and Kristin at K9s Only, during one of their training sessions.

"Nicolette wants to take Ava to her school to teach the children about animal awareness, and dog safety," says Sharon. "I am so excited to take Lend A Paw in this direction. It is so important to educate the next generation."
During the training session, the whole family learned about taking care of a dog as well as how to continue Ava's training. And Nicolette is also learning the handling skills necessary to work with a therapy dog.

The Alvandian family will continue their training until they are ready to take the Lend A Paw test to be certified. Once they pass the test, they will need to complete 6 supervised visits prior to visiting a site on their own. The next Lend A Paw Certification Workshop is scheduled for September 18th. If all goes well, Ava and her new family should be ready to take and pass the test on that day.

Photos and story by Nathalie Seguin.