The dogs of Do Unto Others Assistance Dogs enjoyed a summer pool "paw-ty" ! In the process we were able to be certain these Florida dogs understand that they MUST wait to be invited in to swim; that they CAN indeed swim - puppies aren't so sure about it sometimes - even water dogs like Labradors; and how and where to exit the pool. Introducing the expectations, and enforcing a wait / stay until invited to "SWIM", are important lessons. Water safety isn't just for humans, our service dogs need to be reliable partners around a swimming pool. But, who says learning be can't be fun?!
In the last month, we've expanded our client list; continued training with the dogs we have, considered how best to acquire additional dogs/puppies this fall; and researched our choices of dog food to feed our pups (SO MANY CHOICES - so many variables). The work of the Executive Team continues as we develop the policies and procedures a new organization needs to function efficiently. You'll see a new look and feel to our website with both the puppy raiser and client applications online, and LOTS of ways to volunteer. And yes, we've been spending lots of our training time with our pups in air conditioned locations - the mall, restaurants, doctors' offices, and even the movies!
The "back-to-school" aisles in stores may be filling, the ads are running on TV, but It's still hot and muggy summer outside here in Florida. For our Do Unto Others Assistance Dogs though, EVERY day is a "dog day"!
