Fall 2021

A PUP’S progr es s

Hello again everybody,

As you may have already guessed, I really love being “out there!” Better yet, being out there was just what I needed to take my training to the next level. In fact, a few weeks ago I passed my Level 2 Test! If that doesn’t deserve a drum roll and cannon fire followed by zoomies, I don’t know what does! Now that my training is complete and I’ve passed all of my tests, it’s time to start the process of looking for my Partner. This is what’s known as the “matching process.” It’s kind of like fitting two pieces of a puzzle together. The process involves matching my strengths “Candidates.” These are people that have been screened and approved to partner with dogs in my program. They’ve also gone through classes to learn all about what I know and about what it’s like to partner with a dog like me. and needs to the strengths and needs of people called

Once again, I have some pretty exciting news to share. In my last update I told you that I’d learned all of the commands and tasks required to become a Saint Francis Service Dog. I also filled you in on the fact that I had some catch-up work to do as far as socialization, since my trainer and I were limited in where we could go and what we could do in public places with COVID. These last few months have been all about getting “out there” and putting what I’ve learned to the test in the real world. Since the last update, I’ve definitely done just that. I’ve been to libraries, hospitals, soccer games, and hotels. I rode the trolley in downtown Roanoke and attended a Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets ceremony that included bands playing and even cannon fire! I also flew to Florida and did a demonstration on a big stage in front of lots of people to show them all of the ways that Service Dogs and Facility Dogs can improve people’s lives. “It’s time to start the process of looking for my partner...It’s kind of like fitting two pieces of a puzzle together.”

Once people who may be a good fit for partnership with me are identified, I actually get to meet them during something called “in person” interviews. I’m not so sure about the “in” part, but I sure do like the “person” part. I just can’t wait!

Take care until next time when you may get to meet my person!

Sophia

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