Snowflake, a Great Pyrenees, was skinny and had matted and short fur when couple Biz and Eddie Man first met her at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. He might look ugly to some but for them, he was just adorable. And taking him home with them was such an easy decision to make.
Snowflake was welcomed by his two siblings, a 12-year-old Golden Retriever, Annie, and a 10-year-old Foxhound mix, Hodges. Annie very was excited to meet him and they immediately got into playing mode while Hodges was just happy to watch them from afar. But after some time, he warmed up to him as well. He also found a lot of love and cuddle he needed from his humans and he always made sure to give that love back.
As Snowflake grew, he became fond of other people. He became so friendly that he made it a hobby to say hello to everyone they meet on their walks. He gave them a lot of canine hugs and kisses. Being very friendly with people gave Biz the idea to train Snowflake to be a therapy dog. Biz is already familiar with having a therapy dog as Annie has been one for nine and a half years.
Snowflake started his way to be a therapy dog but first, he had to get in better shape for all the hugs and comfort he’s going to give. He started eating a lot more to gain weight. He also got coconut oil to get his fur soft and huggable. And after all the preparation was done, Snowflake finally went to school.
His first stop was six weeks of basic obedience training at school. While Snowflake can be a bit stubborn at times, he was still able to be a very obedient boy and pass the training. After the winter holidays, Biz started making preparations for Snowflake’s therapy dog test.
The therapy dog test required them to be together for at least six months before they could go through with the test. Finally, Snowflake took the exam and passed with flying colors. After the exam was the final part where he needed three observations with testers/observers in different places.
With just three observations away from certification, Snowflake prepared himself. They first went to Tractor Supply Co. store, the second at Hitchcock Place Assisted Living, and the third at Lowe’s. Again. After getting the results, Snowflake passed with accolades.
Now, Snowflake has his Alliance of Therapy Dogs certification papers along with a red heart to wear on my collar. He’s been working hard, visiting two rehab facilities and two assisted living places. He’s wonderful at his job and he loves it. He’s getting lots of love and pets and he makes people smile.
Biz has plans to take Snowflake anywhere he is allowed and share Snowflake’s canine love with everybody. There’s a lot of other dogs like Snowflake who are wonderful and loving and just need a home to bring out their true potential. You give them a home and you will receive the most unconditional love.
Source: Aiken Standard
