Service Dogs In Training - Our Foster Dogs
In 2012 we began fostering service dogs in training. It has been very enriching to our family to have these dogs as part of our lives. Even though their stay with us is temporary, they left permanent pawprints on our hearts, and we had bittersweet tears when it was time to say goodbye.
Our time fostering with 4-Paws for Ability gave us all the opportunity to learn more about the importance of volunteering. We learned first hand how loving and letting go can be a sacrifice, but the rewards of seeing the dogs accomplish so many skills and making a match with their forever home makes it all worthwhile.
Lexi
Lexi was our first experience volunteering as a Guardian Home. Lexi loved her Kong ball and would play fetch almost endlessly. She would run with the kids for hours as they played in the yard. Lexi is a beautiful Golden Retriever and we enjoyed sharing our home with her.
Getting to know Lexi - her first day home with us.
Hue, aka "Super-dog"
Hue was loved by everyone who had the chance to meet him. He came to us as a foster puppy when he was just a few months old and stole our hearts. He is a velcro-dog and would do anything you asked for as long as you continued to ask him. Hue was also a hugger. Not just a lean against you hug. Although Hue had incredible restraint and manners for a young Golden, for select people Hue would gently greet us with a full body, standing on hind legs, front paws all the way around you hug! He only gave this hug occasionally and usually when he was expressing great joy. Hue now lives with a wonderful family who loves him deeply. We are so thankful to be able to share time with this amazing dog.
Hue enjoying one of our many socialization outings. If you opened a car door, Hue was the first one in!
Hue enjoying a rest during a walk on the Kokosing Gap Trail.
Ricotta
Ricotta was one of the puppies from Nika's litter that needed a Puppy Foster home and basic training. Nika was so happy to have one of her babies back and it was touching to watch Nika teach Ricotta to use her puppy manners. Ricotta is a snuggly sweetheart and we enjoyed getting to be a part of her early training.
Ricotta's ride home from 4 Paws.
Ricotta after a puppy bath!
Our work with service our service dog mommas and puppies has grown into an enthusiasm for shaping well rounded, strongly socialized puppies. Click below to see the Puppy Enrichment Program for Hycottage Farm Puppies.