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Paws To Heal Team
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Paws To Heal Team
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Frieda is a 3 year old German Shepherd. She was the 1st puppy raised by Melanie for Guide Dogs of America (GDA) in Sylmar, CA. Frieda was released from guide dog training at 6 months due to elbow dysplasia. Melanie knew that Frieda was a talented pup and changed the focus of her training from guide work to therapy work. Frieda took and passed the Delta Society’s Pet Partners exam as soon as she was old enough (1 year). Frieda has been a working therapy dog for 2 years. She enjoys “working”, being the top dog, treats of all kinds (especially Greenie bones), playing fetch, going to pool parties, and watching over her “sisters” Fiona & Riva. Fiona is a 2 year old Black Labrador Retriever. She was the 2nd puppy raised by Melanie for Guide Dogs of America. Fiona was a sponsored puppy (Sepulveda Building Materials) which bode well for her future – GDA could tell she had the right stuff at a very young age. As Fiona progressed through the program GDA was very pleased with her progress. As Fiona approached 18 months (turn in age) GDA was seriously considering her to be a breeding dog which is a very high honor. Sadly at the very end they discovered elbow dysplasia in her too and she was released. Once again Melanie knew she had a very talented dog on her hands and couldn’t let those skills go to waste. Fiona became a certified therapy dog with the Delta Society in June 2005 and has been working as a therapy dog ever since. Fiona enjoys sleeping, eating, being hugged, treats, “working”, and being a good role model to her lil’ sis Riva - Melanie’s 3rd guide dog puppy in training, a 1 year old Black & Tan Labrador Retriever. Frieda and Fiona visit Dorothy Grant Elementary School in Fontana, the Upland & Fontana public libraries, and the Rancho Cucamonga Barnes & Noble. Melanie teaches the 5th grade at Dorothy Grant Elementary School in North Fontana. She has been happily employed by the Fontana Unified School District for 6 years.
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