I apologize that it has taken a week for a new post. I am at a loss for words to truly describe this journey but I will try my best. I was  not prepared for the range of emotion, the wonderful moments of joy and pride paired with feeling sad and detached. I have a new respect for these military men and women, their wives, husbands,  and children. I am now even more passionate about my vision seeing it transpire into a reality.

The last day of ‘training’ we planned on a long evening at Jamey’s home, with Shawna, Cooper and Abby. Abby had not yet met Tiger (so much pended on this meeting) but they both were very familiar with each others scent and things. We were all nervous and excited. We took the time (about 30 minutes) to properly introduce them. They immediately were aware but not threatening, both dogs are very passive and non dominant. Tiger and Abby both have such similar personalities that they will wind up having a very good relationship! I can say that after a week of living together, Shawna reported this morning that Abby actually laid down right next to and on Tiger and took a short nap together.

Another step that night was to have Shawna and Tiger spend time together and teach Shawna Tigers commands. One of the best moments of the night was when Jamey who took Shawna out and taught her how to walk Tiger.  This act was one of the measurable moment’s showing the benefits of  how this processes works. Jamey was proud to show off his dog and  he had gained enough confidence to teach it! I didn’t know at the time, but Jamey had snuck a tennis ball in his pocket.  Later that evening Shawna told me (holding back tears) that they had fun playing fetch and it was wonderful  seeing Jamey so happy.

There were many times through out our week where Joe and I could visibly see the difference when Jamey was with Tiger. When they walked together you could see both their body language change, Jamey relaxed and Tiger right next to him-head on his leg- step by step.  It wasn’t just the transformation in Jamey, but in Tiger too. It was like they were meant to be. At first Tiger looked to me because I was his main trainer, but by the third day Tiger was looking to Jamey for correction,  and when we would sit and talk Tiger would go to Jamey and sit on him. Jamey and Tiger picked up on each other instinctively. Many times a day I cried and even now as I write this tears flow down my cheeks.  It works…

Saying good bye is always the hardest. I was again unprepared to hard how it would be to say good bye to Jamey and Shawna. They both were so grateful and happy. I said a happy fast schmookee wookee good bye to Tiger. I turned around fast  to leave, I did not want them to see my tears.  I was sad to leave Tiger, wondering when I would see him again  but also crying cause I was so happy and proud.

Tiger, you are a special soul, sent to us at the right time. I have learned many things from you in our short time together and I will never ever forget what you brought to not only me, but to the Johnson family.