Matti's Page

Text Box: I was born on May 9th 2006 to Charlie and Cargo. Charlie, my dad, is a tri-color Australian Shepherd. Cargo, my mom, is a Blue Meryl Australian Shepherd, which means her coat is multi colored and she has one blue eye and one amber colored eye. I took after my dad and have his black, white and brown coat. I also have amber eyes. Linda picked me out of three puppies. She liked my calm and very sweet disposition. She didn't know at the time I would need those attributes in order to be a great therapy dog. After completing puppy training, novice training, advanced training, agility and canine good citizen's training, Linda decided that I should have a job. Her daughter, Laura is a nurse at one of the nursing homes in Carmel, where I live. She told us that dogs visit the patients there. 3-1/2 years ago we started our regular visits and have made many new friends. I love the interaction with those that are able and sit quietly with those that just need something warm and fuzzy to pet. So started my journey in the world of caring for my friends at the nursing home. After passing our test with Delta Society we were introduced to the Indiana School for the Deaf. We were excited from the start. Linda thought it would be good to teach me a fewASL signs so we could communicate with the kids. They are very receptive to us, however, we still have a lot to learn. We are now assisting the teachers in the classroom. This is all new to us and we are very anxious to be helpful to the teachers and especially the students.