A Therapy Dog In The Making

Sharon Newman became a Certified Lend A Paw Handler because she believes in the human/animal bond. She truly believes that animals, especially dogs, can affect the way people feel.

And she has enjoyed being a therapy dog handler so much, and felt so much fulfillment from each visit that she has decided to raise a puppy to become a Lend A Paw Certified Therapy Dog. 

So this past Summer, Sharon brought Roxy home; Roxy is an adorable Golden Retriever who already demonstrates all the qualities a dog should possess to be a good therapy dog: She loves people and wants to please them. 

As her puppy grows to maturity, Sharon has been blessed with the generosity of others by them "lending" their therapy dogs to her for the Lend A Paw visits. But a few weeks ago, Sharon had a wonderful experience with Roxy and she would like to share this story with everyone.

"Roxie and I were enjoying a morning walk in my neighborhood one Saturday morning, when we encountered a man sitting in a wheel chair in the shade outside a residential house. I know this house to be a residence for adults with severe head injuries as a result of some type of trauma. As we approached him, he smiled broadly and lowered his hand, as if asking to pet Roxie. We got close and Roxie was a perfect lady. She put her head in his lap and he petted her over and over. I told him her name and age. Through his labored speech I could make out that he said "Hi Roxie." We stayed a few minutes, all the while the smile never leaving his face. When we said goodbye, he mumbled "Bye, Roxie."
It was such a beautiful, impromptu moment. It made me even more happy and excited about bringing Roxie into the Lend A Paw program!"

Roxie will be eligible for testing for certification with Lend A Paw when she turns one year old. Stay tuned for updates on her progress to reach that goal!


Story and photos by Nathalie Seguin.

Meet J.D.: the newest Lend A Paw trainee!

J.D. loves everyone he meets canine and human alike!

Meet J.D., a sweet 1 year old Italian Greyhound/Poodle mix who began his training to become a therapy dog on August 18th.

J.D. is currently training at K9s Only.

When J.D. was rescued by New Leash On Life, the staff noted immediately his gentle disposition; He loves everyone he meets and especially loves being held! He also demonstrated all the personality traits necessary to be a good therapy dog: he is older that 1 year old, people oriented, comfortable around other dogs, calm and comfortable to touch. So as soon as he was ready, he was transferred to K9s Only to begin his training.

According to Sharon Vincuilla, the Lend A Paw Coordinator and Training Manager at K9s Only, J.D. is due to finish his training on September 8th. He is looking for someone to adopt him who is also interested in joining the Lend A Paw program as a volunteer handler.

Let's hope that J.D. continues to make steady progress with his obedience training so he can continue his journey towards becoming a therapy dog and bring some warmth, compassion and unconditional love to people in need.

Story and Photos by Nathalie Seguin

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.