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!

[Pat and Traveler]

Yah for Gracie! She's got her priorities straight--and she's gorgeous!!!  Good work, mom and dad!

[Lonnie & Libby Lu]

This is a wonderful story and good girl Gracie!  How very sweet and your pictures are great!.  Gracie knows her therapy manners!  Way to go for Mom and Dad too:)