Tonight's picture was taken in August of 2005. Mattie was three years old and was learning about water and swimming. Mattie did not take to swimming like a duck to water. He was cautious and fearful, which actually was a great thing, because water in my opinion is something that needs to be respected. Mattie had a sixth sense like that! For several summers in a row, we encouraged Mattie in the water and I would say by the summer of 2008 (age 6), right before he was diagnosed, he began to swim independently and feel more comfortable in the water.
Quote of the day: It's wonderful that going to the theatre is considered one of the things that you want to train a service dog for, rather than thinking that theatre is out of reach for people who require a service animal, because it isn't. ~ Ann Swerdfager
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/q/blog/adorable-photo-of-dogs-attending-a-stratford-performance-takes-off-online-1.5246983
Naturally when you see this photo, what is your reaction? If you are like me, it probably brought a smile to your face. As animal lovers, we are always absorbed, intrigued, and fascinated by our furry friends. However, in this particular case, these furry cuties were actually working. These are service dogs being trained and acclimated to being in a theater. After all, theaters are crowded, have loud noises, tight spaces, and lots of people. These service dogs need to be aware of all these challenges in order to be an effective helper to their companion.
The theater staff and performers were very impressed with these pooches. As they sat quietly like a human theater goer and were focused on helping their handlers. Meaning they were not distracted during intermission by concession stands. All I can say is WOW! My Sunny is a good boy, but he is motivated by his stomach. First and foremost!
I am sure reading this article would have brought a smile to my face whether I was a dog owner or not. But now that Sunny is in my life, I have a greater appreciation for the art of the dog. Dogs are sensitive, perceptive, and very keyed into their owner's emotions. They have a way of making a bad day seem just a little better, and I can absolutely understand why people turn to dogs as service and emotional support animals. There are times I look inside Sunny's eyes, and I swear I am looking at a person. All I know is Sunny gets me moving and walking everyday, regardless of weather and circumstances. I admire the dog-human bond and isn't it wonderful that this dynamic duo can now experience theater together.
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