kayelles

Down but not out

There’s a reason why you’re supposed to plan for emergencies. You hope never to have to act on those plans, but when something does happen—you’re grateful you’re prepared. This post is about one of those moments and how Gunther’s training was really put to the test. I know I’m really dating myself here, but haveContinue reading “Down but not out”

Fostering hope

A little while ago, I received an unexpected package in the mail from PAWS With A Cause. Inside was a framed photo of a young Gunther and other pictures of him as a puppy. They had come from his foster puppy raiser, Amy, who had sent them along through PAWS so I could have them.Continue reading “Fostering hope”

High time for a road trip

I’m happy to report that Gunther and I have hit another milestone together! We went away for our first road trip and overnight excursion, which meant he was with me 24/7 at every venue and during every activity I participated in. It was an excellent opportunity to put the skills we had learned together toContinue reading “High time for a road trip”

On speaking terms

Well, peeps. I know it’s been a hot minute since I last posted. This time of year, however, I pretty much go nowhere on my own for safety reasons. Call it my own form of hibernation, but once there’s snow and ice on the ground, I’ll only venture out somewhere if I can use myContinue reading “On speaking terms”

So much to be thankful for

Well, friends. I finally received the news I have been patiently waiting for—giving me even more to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. After seven long weeks since we took our test, Gunther and I have been certified by PAWS With A Cause as an official service dog team! His ownership has been transferred to meContinue reading “So much to be thankful for”

Put to the test

If you saw my last blog post, you might be wondering, “Did they pass, or did they fail?” I wish I had an answer for you, but it’s going to take a few weeks to find out as I wait for the PAWS Client Services team to review the video. All I can tell youContinue reading “Put to the test”

Put on notice

Well, peeps. The culmination of all the work during the last seven months has finally arrived. This week, G dog and I will be taking our certification test. Connie will come and videotape us doing all the things we are supposed to have mastered together both in and out of the home. The PAWS ClientContinue reading “Put on notice”

Testing the waters

Here’s everything I know about Labrador Retrievers: They love to eat. They love to retrieve. They love to swim. I guess one out of three ain’t so bad. I have somehow been gifted with what appears to be the only retriever in the world who doesn’t like to fetch balls or play in the water. Continue reading “Testing the waters”

Family ties

Having G in my life has added more joy than I could have ever imagined. It’s so interesting when I reflect back on the first month of this journey. There was so much emphasis on us establishing a bond. But I only thought of it in terms of having G feel bonded to me soContinue reading “Family ties”

One for the books

A few days ago, Aidan, G, and I returned to Barnes & Noble—this time without Connie. It was far more crowded than it had been during our training session from a couple months ago, which gave G many more opportunities to become distracted. I know I’ve mentioned before that I think G always tries toContinue reading “One for the books”