Dodger

Dodger's Journey

Stage 1 Introduction

Hi! My name is Dodger.  I am proud to have been selected to enter into the Retrieving Freedom training program.  My parents are breeding stock from Wildrose Kennels and I was a donation to Retrieving Freedom from the Wildrose Service Companions Foundation. During this stage of training I will be spending approximately 8 months with my new volunteer foster, Skyler. 

Throughout Stage 1, I will learn the basics obedience, public behavior, and a lot of socialization. I understand that it takes a very special dog to complete the program as there is a high standard to become a Service Dog. I am aware that I may be one of the dogs whose purpose is outside of service work so I will be updating my profile on a monthly basis for all that would like to follow my journey through the program. 

December 2020 - 7 weeks old

   

I am so thankful to have spent a few weeks with my temporary foster, Jill! She has given me a loving home, which is especially nice over the holidays. We have been working on learning and responding to my name, potty training, walking on a leash, and crate training!

January 2021 - 2 months old

I made the transition to my new foster home this month! I am so thankful for Jill and her family for opening their homes and hearts to me over the past few weeks. Now I'm settled in with Kyle and Skyler and am looking forward to learning more each day!

February 2021 - 3 months old

   

Kyle and Skyler brought me to the Retrieving Freedom training facility to do a photo shoot with their other fosters, Yang and Daly. It was fun to play with them!

March 2021 - 4 months old

     

I had a big "first" this month - first time going to college! Now that I'm older and fully vaccinated, Skyler has begun taking me to college classes with her. I'm so excited to experience new surroundings and gain new skills! At the end of the long days, I happily partake in snuggles.

April 2021 - 5 months old

      

I continue to go to college classes and behave well for a young puppy! Skyler and I go to monthly training sessions at Retrieving Freedom where we learn new skills to practice at home.

May 2021 - 6 months old

Skyler adopted her previous foster dog, Yang, who is no longer in training. I love having a buddy to play with at home!

June 2021 - 7 months old

 

Skyler and I went to the splash pad this month.Though I did not run through the water, it was a great training opportunity to sit patiently while friends played! We also went to a car show, where I remained calm through the chaos and noise.

July 2021 - 8 months old

 

I went to my first movie theater! I slept peacefully throughout the movie, even with the temptation of food on the ground around me.