WEBBER went on a very important field trip this month with a volunteer who is a middle school counselor. She wanted to pass along the following report:
“Webber was beyond amazing to work with at the school. He connected so well with the students and responded to emotions spot on! He was truly incredible especially with two students. The girl who I wanted him for first just hugged him because she wanted to have a hug from her mom but couldn’t. Then she said she didn’t want anyone else to hear what she wanted to say to Webber. When I told her she could speak quietly, but I couldn’t leave the room, she said, “I’m just going to think it and see if he understands”. I told her he wasn’t a mind reader, but she possibly proved me wrong. Webber maintained eye contact with her while she thought about what was on her mind, as she started to show a tiny bit of emotion, he put his head on her lap and maintained eye contact, and then he leaned into her. She started to tear up and she leaned down and hugged him. Then she said, “Good boy Webber! You are such a good boy!” and to me, “He understands.” I have told people that I think having a dog work with me at least doubles my efficiency as a counselor, and I think Webber tripled my efficiency! He is going to make a difference to so many in whatever his job turns out to be!”
- Skills being learned: ‘My lap’, deep pressure, hand signals, ‘bow’, ‘fist bump.’
- Recent field trips: Home Depot, MacLeod Trail Animal Hospital, local parks, Junior High School Counselor’s office
- Possible behavior challenges: Some body handling discomfort, some sensitivity to loud environments.
- Potential career path: AFD
Thank you again for all your support of Advanced Dog Webber!
Submitted by: Advanced Trainers Lisa Davis & Miranda Turenne