Hi everyone! I’m nine months old now, and winter has officially taken over my world. Suddenly, there’s snow under my paws, frost on my nose, and twinkling lights everywhere I look. I’m learning how to walk properly in my boots, pounce through snow piles, and still remember my manners when everything around me feels brand new and exciting. It’s a lot to take in, but I’m learning more every day, and my Hooman says I’m a pretty, amazing little pup.
Just like you, December was a very busy month for me. It started with my nine-month milestone birthday and my very first silent auction. I attended with my brother, Doane, and a few other PADS dogs, including Baby Jingle, who is incredibly tiny and sweet. A huge thank you to Kim and everyone at Bonasera Pizza & Sports Bar for treating us like royalty. They have the absolute best pizza—it smelled amazing—but I stayed focused and politely accepted my reward treats instead. Events like this are wonderful training opportunities and only happen because of generous members of the public who support PADS fundraising. Thank you for helping puppies like me grow into future superhero service dogs!
I also had several important medical-related outings with my Hoomans, which gave me lots of practice staying calm, confident, and attentive in busy environments. At South Health Campus’s Bone and Joint Clinic, I met a surgeon, Dr. Illial, and one of his physiotherapists. While my Hooman reviewed X-rays and did exercises, I supervised closely. On the way out, I got to check out a teepee where I could watch people walk by and contemplate another nap.
We also visited Calgary Precision Labs, where, even though there was a weird vibe I was unfamiliar with, we ended up meeting really nice people – and an especially lovely couple who wanted to learn all about my training, the PADS program, and how people can volunteer to help by puppy sitting. I always appreciate when people take the time to ask questions and support what PADS does.
December also included dental visits for both my Hooman and me. I visited Dr. Lee at Sunpark Dental Clinic, and under my vigilant supervision, Stella the dental hygienist worked her magic on cleaning my Hooman’s teeth. Later, I had my own appointment at Woodlands Veterinary Hospital and Animal Dental Centre with Dr. MacKenzie—he’s so very cool! These visits were great opportunities to practice my manners around new sights, strange sounds, and smells.
The holiday season brought many firsts. Everywhere I went, Christmas lights made everything look sparkly and magical. I joined my Hooman for gift shopping, wrapping presents, and holiday outings, including a Christmas Eve church service and Christmas Day celebrations with my Uncle Jynx and our family.
Shopping trips included visits to The Dive Shop and Aqua Dive and Watersports, where I even got to try on scuba and snorkel gear. At Decathlon, while my Hooman looked at hiking equipment, I practiced walking confidently on a small rock trail designed to simulate different surfaces. In Browns Shoe Store, it was very busy, but everyone was patient and kind while I tucked myself out of the way and stayed focused on my Hooman’s every move. Everywhere I looked, people were smiling – I think I helped ease some holiday shopping stress.
One of my favourite outings was a visit to Parachute for Pets, a non-profit registered charity. I was welcomed to explore the store, scope out beds, toys, and dog wear, all while practicing my training. It was extra special knowing that every purchase helps support pets and families in need. It felt good to be part of something that helps others.
We attended the Christmas Eve service at McKenzie Towne Church with Pastor Brad Moffatt and his band, who were fun and energetic, and I didn’t even mind that the music was loud. It was especially meaningful to learn that the lady seated in front of us was the organizer of the Willow Park Charity Golf Tournament, which had PADS Calgary as one of its recipients. Moments like that remind me how connected and supportive this community truly is.
Christmas morning was full of excitement. Uncle Jynx and I had the chance to unwrap many presents, which made us feel like very lucky pups. My two favourite gifts were a snuffle mat and a little Foxy, generously given by Bonnie and Uncle Jynx. My favourite holiday treat was whipped cream on a peanut butter puppy cookie, which felt like a very special reward.
Winter also brought my first experience with puppy snow boots and a cozy down-filled winter jacket. I’m still getting used to wearing them, but I happily let my Hooman suit me up so snow, ice, and ice-melt salts don’t get between my toes.
One of my biggest training milestones this month, outside of medical facilities, was joining the Wild Her Ways hiking group of 17 awesome ladies to walk across nine (9) downtown Calgary bridges. This was my first time working “in cape” with a large group of people, practicing my heeling on a four-foot, flat leash, waiting for permission to “go sniff” periodically, relieving myself on cue in appropriate areas, and staying focused despite the many distractions and smells. It was a Huge test for me, and Diane, the organizer, said I did a great job, invited us to go for coffee afterward, and said we are welcome to come back again. How cool is that!!
We also bundled up for more nature and community walks, discovering new areas of Fish Creek Provincial Park before stopping at Patisserie du Soleil Bakery to warm up. While my Hooman enjoyed a treat, I enjoyed a well-earned nap.
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to my new PADS sitter, Bonnie, and her family for the best beds, bones, and cuddles. Thank you, Bonnie, for taking such wonderful care of me.
Thank you as well to all the PADS sponsors, donors, and members of the public who support my training and welcome me into shared spaces. Because of you, my tummy stays full, my learning continues, and I’m one step closer to becoming the superhero service dog I’m working hard to be.
Submitted by: Moira Reitsma
