Three years ago I had a dream to train my yellow lab, Kylie to become a therapy dog. It was my hope to visit nursing homes and hospitals to share joy and smiles. I wanted to give the gift of a dog’s love to those less fortunate who aren’t able to have that connection on a daily basis. As many of you know, there was a fork in the road and my dream was put on hold to care for my little Frankie.
It took me awhile to realize God meant for Frankie to become my therapy dog. He certainly had a grand plan in mind… and I finally paid attention. After writing Frankie’s book and taking her to school’s I realized the potential of Frankie’s never-ending love. I knew we could give back to the world even more. So we embarked on becoming a therapy dog team with Therapy Dogs, Inc. I am a big believer in the universe and being open when things are put into my path. Well, last spring I met Julie Hauck, 3rd grade teacher at Longfellow school when I did a presentation for her class. We hit it off immediately and our love for animals was evident. One thing led to another in our quick introduction discussion and I soon discovered she was waiting to receive her certification in becoming a tester/observer for Therapy Dogs, Inc. Yup, God was sending me His next message. It was time to realize my dream and it was Frankie who would be my therapy dog partner.
It was July when Julie finally received word she was officially a tester for TDI. In the meantime I met with the Volunteer Services Coordinator at a local hospital to fill out my paperwork to volunteer with Frankie. I also had to have blood work done through the hospital which I did right away. Then Julie, her dog Preston, Frankie and I, began our training at a nearby nursing home. In order to become a team Julie must observe Frankie and I in many different aspects on three different visiting occasions. Julie filled out our paperwork when our visits were complete, which I sent to TDI for approval. I was so touched when I read what Julie had written: “Barb was clearly happy to begin the journey of becoming a Therapy Dog Team. Barb and her dog, Frankie, work together beautifully. Barb has a very kind and graceful way of interacting with the residents. Frankie is a calm dog who enjoys attention. Barb and Frankie are going to spread a lot of joy as a therapy team. They are naturals!”
So there you have it… I had a dream three years ago… and it has finally come true. Wow. And as I say wow, I feel a lump forming in my throat and tears mist my eyes. It was a dream I wanted so badly. Now it is time to spread joy and smiles which we will do soon. My hope of sharing stories of our experiences will also be realized as I will share them through my blog…. and last, but most certainly not least… thank you my little Frankie once again for being one special dog. Mama is so proud of you!!
