Valley Village Love

Therapy Dog Poppy visited the people at Valley Village adult activity facility. Several people were in wheelchairs and it was hard for them to reach down and pet Poppy, we finally figured out that she could climb on a chair and, in one case, up onto the table to give love.

Poppy's First Therapy Job!

 

Poppy went to Calabasas High School today to help the students de-stress before final exams. She was invited by the Peer Support organization, which are students helping other students. What a great group of teenagers! Poppy had a great time. You know, studies have proven that people's heart rates go down when they pet a dog. ;)

 

Poppy Passed Her Test

After all her training with Guide Dogs of America it was easy for Poppy to pass the Therapy Dog's International competency test. Sha Newman signed off on her skills right on the spot. Poppy is now a licensed Therapy Dog <3

Failure Never Felt So Good

Guide Dogs of America called with a sad tone in their voice. Poppy decided that she didn't want to be a guide dog after all. Sometimes the responsibility is just too heavy and the dogs stop wanting to put the harness on. After seven months of training Poppy gave it up. We didn't know if she would remember us.

Poppy's Brother Preston Graduates!

Well, Poppy didn't get matched up with anyone for the class of October 19th, 2014. But her brother Preston did graduate. Charlene and Carole did an amazing job of raising him. Congratulations!

Poppy's Doing it!

Dear Family,

Hi everyone!  I just wanted to give you an update from Guide Dog College.  I am still learning new things and we are going to more challenging and exciting places almost every day. 

We recently rode the Metro train and worked around downtown Pasadena.  There was a lot to look out for but it was fun. 

Some of my friends have decided to go home but I’ve decided to stay and learn even more. 

Hope you are all doing well!

Paws to you,

Poppy

Dear Poppy

Poppy right in the middle of the fray, as usual!

Dear Family,

Hi all!  My trainers tell me that I’ve completed my first set of tests wearing my harness.  I helped guide my trainer while they were wearing a blindfold and it was fun!

I know I still have a lot to learn and soon we will be taught how to guide on stairs, elevators and even escalators!

We have fun when we are not working too.  The kennel staff gives us toys and we get to run around in a big group.  It’s a blast!   

Take care.

Wiggles and wags,

Poppy