Ellie Mae, Saved for a Purpose 

    Lithonia College student Julie Adams was devastated when she learned that it could take up to two years before she could receive a service dog. Adams, who suffered a debilitating spinal cord injury, needs a service dog to help her lead a more independent life. Essentially, the dog would serve as Julie's arms. It would be able to do many simple tasks that are impossible for Julie. Facing two years without this much needed help appeared overwhelming.

    At the same time, Ellie Mae, an eight month old golden retriever, faced a dire fate. The dog was scheduled to be euthanized during a parvovirus outbreak at the Clayton County Animal Shelter. Fortunately, a last minute blood test saved Ellie from death.

    That's where Emily Fevert, Julie's physical therapist, comes in. She heard Ellie Mae's story and contacted Dreamworkers, Inc., an organization that trains service and therapy dogs. Ellie Mae was quickly assessed to determine if her temperament was appropriate for a service dog and was accepted into the program. Steven and Stacey Hill, Dreamworkers volunteers, are currently training the dog to become Julie's service dog. Through their efforts, Julie and Ellie Mae will be united later this year.

    Dreamworkers volunteers like the Hills serve throughout the Metropolitan Atlanta area. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to serving the community through animal related programs. They visit schools, nursing homes, and day care centers with their certified therapy dogs. Additionally, members offer low-cost obedience classes and free training for service dogs.

An Update on Ellie

  After completing her public access training Ellie has now begun to work with Julie. Her trainer and Julie work together to determine the specific tasks Ellie will need to learn. Julie is also learning the art of handling her soon-to-be-partner. Ellie has visit with Julie's family, toured the campus at Julie's college, and visited the classroom and school where Julie is doing her student teaching. The plan is for one more training visit and then the leash will be passed to Julie.