GRACIE - THE THERAPY DOG

[Barbara Mettler]

Imagine our surprise when Gracie was invited this past winter to be an amateur therapy dog for our Nordic skiing students with autism.  On a good day, Gracie will obey the sit command and, with proper treats, will do a variety of cute tricks.  On most days, it is highly unlikely that she will sit, stay and come if there are more interesting people, animals, or treats in the vicinity (i.e. the length of a football field - or two).

My husband, BJ, and I decided to give her a try though we were pretty sure it was going to be one long grueling day of wild puppy failure,  We packed her bags - leash, water bowl, food, treats, cute winter coat, skijoring harness, -  and some Ibuprofen for ourselves. Off we went into the wilderness - actually a 5-star luxury mountain dude ranch and Nordic Resort -  where we teach kids with autism who come to us from Denver.

Gracie astounded us with her behavior.  She laid quietly or stood still for every child who approached her and wanted to hug or pet her.  She obeyed all their commands instantly, fetched balls,  and never flinched when her feet were accidentally stepped on or her tail or ears tugged.  Kids who were afraid at first were reaching out to feel her soft fur after a few weeks.  Gracie became a rock star!  The teachers all took turns walking her outside while we taught - and one just became a new doodle owner because she loved Gracie.

We learned a lot about our wicked smart doodle in those 10 weeks.  She still doesn't always come when we call, doesn't like to give up her fetched items, and gets totally distracted by just about anything this side of the moon - but she's a great amateur therapy dog!

[Jarka, Monty & Auggie]

She sounds like a pro to me!  What a good girl.

My older one is a therapy dog and it's the same story: he is not 100% obedient, very stubborn and very inpatient. But when he has his vest on, he's a totally different dog.

[a.k.a. Rodney]

Huge kudos to her!! Her instincts are great..she has her priorities in order!!
You must be so proud! A great "kvelling story"
And great of you & DH for the job you guys are doing for the kids!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

You must be so proud. Congratulations for having such a wonderful, loving dog who made a real differences in those children's lives.

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

What a nice story!  She knows when being good is important!  Go Gracie!

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Way to go, Gracie!! You make us proud!!

[Marnie, Stanlee's Mom]

And to top it all off.....she's wicked cute, too!  Amazing job, Gracie!

[BG and Gavin]

Nice work Gracie!  You rose to the occasion.  Sounds like you are doing a wonderful job mom and dad.

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

I'm impressed! Sounds like 'amateur' should be replaced with 'pro!'

[Jennifer and Jack]

Some dogs are just intuitively amazing at knowing humans needs....Jack is able to sense when I am about o get sick...it really is amazing....every day I fall more in love with these babies! Great Job Gracie!

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

WTG, Gracie! Way to make your Mom & Dad proud!