Jenny Thorne
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.