Welcome, Stephanie Norvell!

About Me:

I teach special education in a resource setting, grades K-5. I bought our goldendoodle when she was a puppy as our 25th wedding anniversary gift. My husband wanted to get me a diamond ring but I surprised him with a goldendoodle instead. It was the best present for both of us. Several years prior, I was stricken with Guillian Barre Syndrome and out of the blue I was paralyzed from my neck down. I was in the hospital and in physical rehabilitation for many months where I had to learn how to walk again, etc. During that time. I was visited by a team of therapy dogs that brought so much joy to my lonely days. I knew that someday I wanted to be able to train my own therapy dog and bring that same joy to others.
About a year later, I brought Abbie home. She was so much fun to train and we have developed such a bond. We have volunteered with Gabriel's Angels as a pet partner's team where we worked with at-risk children. We also volunteer at Chandler Regional Medical Center where we visit patients to brighten their day.
Recently, I had to cut back with my volunteering because I went full-time with teaching and was in overload. I was thrilled when the principal at my school asked me to start a Read-to Me Program with Abbie. We will work with at risk children with reading difficulties where they will read to her to help improve their reading skills and raise their self esteem.

What Type of Doodle(s) do you have? What are their names? Tell us about your doodle(s) or any other pets you have!

Abbie is a 5 year old F-1 Goldendoodle. She was Delta registered when she was18 months old and has been volunteering with me since.

Where did you get your doodle(s)?

Breeder

Why did you choose a doodle rather than another breed or mix?

I chose a goldendoodle because of their wonderful golden retriever type personality and they are easy to train. They are also known to be a minimal to low shedding dog and great for people with allergies. Both of my grown children are allergic to dogs. They do not live at home but visit regularly. Although Abbie sheds minimally, just a few dust bunnies here and there, my daughter is very allergic to her. When Abbie was a pup, my daughter's allergies did not bother her very much. However, Abbie is now full grown and weighs 67 pounds, and my daughter's allergies are in full force when she visits.

What are Your Favorite Things to Do With Your Doodles?

I love taking Abbie with us everywhere we can. She is such a happy and very friendly dog. She loves going on car rides, playing fetch or tug, chewing on an antler, taking walks and spending every minute she can with us. We are empty nester's and she has brought us so much joy.

Does your doodle(s) shed?

A little bit but nothing major

Who grooms your doodle(s)?

groomer

Favorite Doodle Products?

flashing ball, deer antlers, stuffed toys

Relationship Status:

Married