June 1, 2014
After a year to-and-a-half together (already!), it seems impossible that Sir Thomas and I could come face-to-face with anything we haven’t already seen or heard. Together, we’ve encountered a wide variety of situations, including unleashed dogs, scorns of disapproval (What’s that dog doing in here?), toddler tail-grabbing, airport security pat downs, surprised drivers (cabs and ferries) and many friendly souls (including a chef at a rather upscale restaurant who delivered a plate of chicken she’d cooked up for Thomas when she saw us arrive). We’ve attended yoga classes (Tommy loves relaxation poses) and art classes (cerulean blue paint is a challenge to wash from white fur). We’ve experienced people who hold the door for us (and one woman who held the door for only Tommy, letting it slam before I passed through), people who take pictures of him, people who insist he’s one breed or another (but certainly not […]
April 5, 2014
The Parkinson’s Society of New Zealand interviewed Carolyn and me during the World Congress in Montreal about our service dogs. Canada was a bit far to travel for their members, but many were interested in our presentation on PD and service dogs. They may be far away but the thread that weaves through our common symptoms and ways to manage is a short click away. Click here for the interview. And if you missed it, click here for the presentation.
March 31, 2014
In addition to his continuing role as Service Dog, Sir Thomas prances and practically rolls over in the role of Mentor. Sometimes a service dog in training comes for a sleepover. Often times, the visitor is still a youngster who chews through Sir T’s toys, nudges him off his favorite bed and occasionally does the unthinkable: piddles on the carpet. But Thomas maintains his dignity. Until then two head out into the yard. Then Tommy gets to step a paw back into puppyhood. . It’s a win-win. The real pup gets the opportunity to experience life in a house with a family, sometimes other four-footed creatures, and, yes, carpets. The grown-up dog gets to romp and act like a big kid. Until they harness up. Thomas greets his vest with a wag as he dips his head for me to slip it on. The pups still need convincing that a vest is A) Not a toy […]
January 4, 2014