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Volunteer Puppy Raiser

JENNY THORNE

   


I learned about the program when I was in graduate school when I did my master's project on service dogs and people with disabilities.  I connected with a man who had a WAGS dog, interviewing him and followed him around with a video camera.  I was very intrigued by the WAGS program since it focused on two of my top interests: people with disabilities and dogs.

I have been a stay-at-home mom since 2003.  Previously I had worked in the field of rehabilitation counseling and saw first hand how a service dog can change the life of someone with a disability.   I wanted to be a part of the program because I strongly believe in the power of animals changing people's lives.  I knew I did not have the time to be a Puppy Raiser, but I still wanted to do what I could to volunteer. I started Sitting in the fall of 2006 and have been a Sitter for Elliot.

My favorite experience so far was taking care of Elliot.  He is such a kind, smart dog & was so much fun.  It was just amazing to see how he fit in so well around my young son & my own dog.  Elliot really will make a difference in the lives he touches.  It was also heartwarming to see how my son and my own dog accepted Elliot so quickly and lovingly.

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