Dear Linda and Gary;

We are so excited to tell you that Calli took her dog therapy test yesterday and she passed with flying colors as the evaluator said! It was a 40 min. exam that entailed things like walking with me and responding to commands, meeting strangers that would dress in different clothes and pet her, brush her, talk to her, use wheel chairs, walkers, etc. to see her reaction and she was a sweetheart the whole time. The evaluator said she never saw a collie look so beautiful (great, because she is due for a grooming!). When it was all over she said she rated a "2" on every part of the test, which is what she said was the best you can do! She even wrote lovely comments on her score sheet about how well we worked as a team! Wow, what a day; we are so proud of her.

You must be proud too because this was at one time your "baby." We will keep in touch about our visits to nursing homes, hospitals, etc. and are looking forward to visiting the people and children, enjoy our visits, and brighten up their day in whatever way we can.

Lots of love and doggy kisses, and kisses from Alan and Kathy

Linda,
 
As you can see by the photo dear Clare looks wonderful.  we think she is beautiful. Hard to believe she turned 5 this May.
 
Clare begins work on July 22nd!  Clare is a certified pet therapy dog and this summer is the pilot dog for the new reading program at our local library.  Clare and I will be working with grade 1-3 students to improve their reading skills.  She knows her commands, when you tell Clare to read, she takes her right paw and turns the page on the book.  She is a star!!!!
 
It was interesting to watch her when she underwent her therapy dog evaluation.  The examiner has collies and the test dog was also a collie.  They were nose to nose with wildly wagging tails, just like they had been long lost buddies.  Everyone comments on what a loving personality our dear girl has.
 
Dan is still teaching Clare goofy tricks, they will be on the David Letterman show eventually if he keeps at it long enough.  Boca, the little yorkie is still the boss.
 
Hope all is well with you, Gary and the family.
Take care,
Jean  (and Clare)