Kelsi holds multiple Best of Breed titles.

Sharyl & Kelsi
West Highland Terrier

Eight years ago, we brought a little White West Highland Terrier puppy into our home. She was like a fluffy little white cloud. Prior to being housebroken, she pretended to be a 'rain cloud' occasionally leaving puddles (scattered showers) in obscure corners. Our persistent four-year-old insisted upon naming her "Cloud". The Scottish name, 'Kelsi', met with approval by other family members. Thus, our new puppy (of Scottish descent) became known as "Kelsi McCloud". (We were tempted to change the spelling to McLOUD due to her frequent barking).

I begin immediately training this cute little terrier, fearing that an untrained terrier could be destined to become a 'terror'. It started with a beginning obedience class, and then proceeded on to more advanced classes. I also joined the Westie Club of Greater Atlanta to learn more about the breed.  This continued further socialization skills and exposed Kelsi to the show ring. Soon, Kelsi was collecting things…ribbons, trophies, silver cups, and a silver plate. She even broke a record and was crowned "Westie of the Year of Greater Atlanta" three times. Kelsi loved the attention, but eventually surrendered her role of 'life in the limelight' to the demanding schedules of the two-legged kids in the family. Too busy to continue an active role in the Westie Club, we put her crown aside and let Kelsi take early retirement. Kelsi seemed content just being one of the family. She still led an interesting life accompanying me wherever I went, but something seemed to be missing in her life.

Feeling the desire to keep Kelsi active, in conjunction with an equally strong desire to help others; we were led to Dreamworkers, Inc. Earning her Therapy Dogs Inc. ( TDI ) Certification was a "shoe-in" for Kelsi. She had already earned her Canine Good Citizen ( CGC ) Certificate years ago, and her obedience classes had been good preparation for working in hospitals. Being more mature and calm, than in her spirited youth, has also been advantageous.. Her puppy nickname, the Shredder, is long behind her. (Kelsi acquired this temporary 'label' as a young puppy, while demolishing tissues and other assorted papers. She was the craziest and most indiscriminating 'paper shredder' in existence.)

We now are experiencing the joys of working with the Dreamworkers, Inc. Kelsi has emerged from her retirement status to that of a working Therapy Dog. We, along with others who volunteer their time and efforts, visit patients in the hospital and are convinced that Pet Therapy not only works; IT WORKS WONDERS.

Webmaster note: Kelsi had to move when her family was relocated. (We tried to keep her here, but she wouldn't
leave her mom.) She is out there spreading cheer in her new home.

See Kelsi's Special Eyes Story
 

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