Rhonda & Sasha
Australian Shepherd mix

I'd like to tell you about my Australian shepherd mix, Sasha. She is one of the original Dreamworkers Therapy Dogs. Sasha was adopted at the age of ten weeks old and immediately became my "velcro" dog. It was only natural to find an obedience class and start Sasha on some formal training.

It took a lot of confidence building through obedience and agility training before Sasha was ready to work toward therapy certification.  When we made the first visit to the nursing facility it was as if the light came on for Sasha.  She hopped up on a stool and sat politely for petting. She seemed to delight in being told how pretty she was and  in getting all sorts of treats. Now Sasha claims the nursing facility as her territory. She heads into the rooms of her regulars and often surprises me when she takes the lead in selecting which rooms to visit. When she chooses to make an unscheduled visit, we usually find someone who really needed a special visit to lift their spirits. I don't know how she knows, but she knows that she is needed.

 Sasha also visits my third grade classroom two or three times a week. She sits quietly for small groups of children to read to her. Reluctant readers aren't so reluctant to read when they get to spend time with Sasha. The children also help her practice tricks and obedience commands. This helps to improve their communication skills and self confidence. She makes a great topic for creative writing stories. The kids try to explain how she got her spots, why she has one ear up and one ear down, and what she dreams about. We also tie in character education lessons by using pet care as an example of responsibility. Each Christmas the class helps Sasha prepare for the nursing facility holiday party by decorating gift bags or collecting gift items to go in the bags. While the third graders participate in p.e., art, and music, Sasha goes to visit her friends in the special needs classes. She also visits other classes that invite us to present dog bite prevention lessons.

Sasha has also exhibited a new talent. She has alerted people when I've had an insulin reaction and was unable to communicate that I was in need of help.

See Sasha's Special Eyes Story

 Pictures

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