Posts Tagged ‘therapy’

by Dr. Sara Rudwell

My most vivid memory of the Delta Society Pet Partner^® testing session with my golden retriever mix, Gracie, was asking her to obey the simple command, “Come”.  This particular portion of the test required that she ignore the attention she was receiving from the evaluator (a belly rub, in this case) and actually listen to my command.  I knew I was in trouble when I said the word and Gracie, all four paws in the air, lolled her head toward with me with a look in her eyes that said, “Yeah right, and leave this??”  Much to my surprise, after a few missed beats, Gracie made a slow-motion rise to her feet and reluctant saunter my way.  The remainder of the evaluation, which included dealing with loud noises and visual distractions, basic obedience, and handling, was a breeze.  Gracie particularly loved the test during which a group of 6 people were petting her vigorously at the same time – heaven!

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