In November 2019, I took home my first service dog after completing handler training with Canine Companions. Since then, Nottingham, or “Notty” has picked up socks, phones, pens, and wallets. He has pulled on my sleeve to help me take off my jacket. When I have fallen, he barks for help to let my parents know I need help. He has seen me through 3 surgeries, accompanied me on a bus ride from Austin to Dallas, and watched so many Grey’s Anatomy episodes. Notty has helped me save energy, encouraged me to get more exercise, and allowed me to have that sense of pride at the thought of successfully taking care of another being.
Our most recent adventure was last month when Nottingham and I went to our local Macy’s and took an ADI recertification test. Canine Companions’ staff test my handling abilities and how well Nottingham behaves in a public environment. I admit I get a mild case of testing jitters, but Nottingham only wants to show off to the people who trained him to be the service dog that he is. During the test, he picked up my wallet like a champ, let others step over him like it was no big deal, and walked by dropped dog food without going for it. We ended up passing with a three-year certification.
As we headed back home, I wondered what adventures await Nottingham and me in the next three years.
I can’t wait to experience them and then share them with you.