Wednesday, October 7, 2015

"Q2" Opts for a Career Change


After nearly two years majoring in a future as a guide dog, “Q2″ was released from the training program and was career-changed to that of a beloved pet companion.
As they say in the guide dog world, the dog has to “want it” in order to thrive under the very demanding conditions for which they are trained.  For “Q2,” life as a guide dog was just not meant to be.  Instead, she’ll enjoy her early retirement in the home of friends of her puppy raiser.  Her puppy raiser shared the following message:
“Ultimately, she decided that it was time to change her major and find new ways of spreading the Love. Now a smart dog knows what they want and need and it took only a second for Quiz to make her choice. Quiz has chosen a new life in the local area as a sidekick with a kind and loving person! In fact, upon seeing each other they were both crying with joy! The staff witnessing the connection said there was no doubt it was the right match for Quiz. Quiz now has an opportunity to educate even more people in the meaning of love, just as her name sake, the original Quiz did.”
All of us who played a part in sponsoring “Q2,” and who loved her namesake are disappointed that we won’t get to cheer for her and a partner at a future Guide Dogs of America graduation, but we are happy she has found the perfect Forever Home.
Happy Retirement, “Q2.”  Here’s to a long and happy life.

How to be a Polite Dog Owner



I recently had a chance to share my thoughts on polite dog-owner etiquette in an article for Whole Dog Journal. Many articles are only available to subscribers, but this one is offered to everyone for free!
What's your favorite tip for how to be an especially polite dog owner?