Tug and Push!!!

Sam's Tale:

Today, Lolo opened the refrigerator door for me and closed the bathroom door.  She helped me by tugging a laundry basket of items across the floor BACKWARDS!!!  How cool is that!!!  I can't wait for you to meet her!

Amy's Tale:

We enjoyed our much needed day off at church, the beach, and eating seafood (yummm!).  Today, we were back in the grind learning new commands and practicing to pass our public certification exam.  A big "aha" happened last night as we were playing fetch with Lolo.  I asked Sam to say Fetch and IMMEDIATELY a large sound came from his mouth.  He yelled the same sound without hesitation for 10 minutes playing fetch with his new girlfriend.  

Tested and Conquered!!

Sam's Tale:

I wish you could have seen my girl Lolo today.  We had a field trip to Lowe's to practice handling our dogs in a busy public place.  Lowe's was so crowded!! One lady even had a little yappy dog with her.  Do you know what?  When my girl Lolo walked beside her, she didn't even look at that little dog who was lunging at her!!!  Way to go Girl!! We gave her lots of lovin' for that.  I also learned today that Lolo can play fetch so well with me.  Her energy really makes me laugh!  Also, when my mom says "UP", Lolo will pick up an object (like my cup) off the floor, put her front paws on my wheelchair tray, and give me the item from the floor.  Is she smart or what???

Amy's Tale:

Wow, I can't believe a week has gone by and I am finally having the opportunity to write something!!  It has been great and exhausting.  Kind of like running a very long race.  Seeing Sam's reactions to his dog has made it all worthwhile.! He is vocalizing to the dog, initiating petting, and most importantly smiling and laughing all the time.  We have a group of nine families getting dogs.  Amazingly, all seemed to get matched with the dog that fitted their personality.  Canine Companions is a fantastic organization and very thorough in their training.  I am amazed at all that goes in to breeding, raising, training, and then the matching process.  Lolo is a cross between a yellow lab and golden retriever and the perfect combination of love, obedience, and fun.  I am looking forward to getting to know her more and watching her relationship with Sam grow.  Tomorrow we have a break so we are going to go to the beach (without Lolo - not allowed to yet) and then seek out some good seafood.  

Welcome to our blog

Welcome to our blog everyone!!

Sam Tale:  

Long drive.  Mom and Grandma behaved themselves.  Southern CA is hot, cold, windy and rainy. Beach was fun.  Love Canine Companion's Campus!  lots of dog EVERYTHING!!    Grandmom is snoring - earplugs help.  My new friends - dogs, kids, and trainers are all super cool and fun.  Like the smooth floors and open spaces.  I am cruising in my walker every evening to catch Lolo.  Isn't she awesome??  Her brown ears are so soft!!  She loves me!!