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Armina Update Armina is doing quite well. ( I like her 'call' name so much better than her registered name.) I am very pleased with her progress thus far. She has earned both her Canine Good Citizen and has recently been accepted as a therapy dog in the College of Veterinary Medicine. University of Tennessee @ Knoxville's H.A.B.I.T. Program. (Human and Animal Bond In Tennessee) Here is the link for more information http://www.vet.utk.edu/habit/. This program has been around for some time and is well respected. The animals screened and must be of VERY sound temperament in order to be accepted. The university assumes legal liability in case something goes wrong. Thus far, there has not been one incident for over the ten years that the program has been in existence. So their screening program is quite effective. The evaluator was a bit skeptical at best. She kept making references to Armina's young age (1 year and 3 months) and repeatedly ask me if I thought she was ready. She also made several comments about the fact that most German Shepherds she has seen are very nervous. She also has judged in obedience and is an active trainer. So these were not the comments of a casual observer. She has plenty of first-hand knowledge. I told her that I didn't have any reservations. I knew that the test was designed to stress the dog as much as possible. What I did not understand was that I would NOT be the handler. I was a little concerned at that point. After waiting for 5 or 10 minutes and Armina did not come bouncing out looking for me; I decided that it must be going OK. All was well. After about 40 minutes, they came out. The first thing that came out of the lady's mouth was "This dog is amazing. She'll do well anywhere!" She did well with all age groups etc. She and I sat down to talk about where I wanted to be assigned and soon. Somewhere during the conversation she revealed that she had a friend that bred Shepherds. She asked me where I got Armina and I shared the information. The conversation turned to the differences between the German standard and the American one. She couldn't understand the American breeders. The only answer that I could think of was that they were as crazy as the dogs they breed. (H*ll. I have ruined any hope of joining the local German Shepherd club. Not only have I refused to purchase a dog from them; I go about telling people how deformed the poor creatures are. However, I have strayed from the topic and am preaching to theirs.) I met with members of the local chapter of the National Association of Search and Rescue. I introduced them to Armina and we agreed that she needs another job to do. I am excited about this and hope that I have the time to get involved. There are a couple of draw backs though. I can't make her look ugly enough to show her in confirmation (By AKC Standards). I also spend a great amount of time explaining to kids why they can't run up to most GSD's because the majority are crazy. I feel like I have the dog that was meant for me. You had sent me photos of puppies in that litter. Please feel free to use me as a reference and send me updated business cards when you get them.
Sandra Brown |