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We adopted @bigmomodog from @humanesocietysrq (Humane Society of Sarasota County) almost 9 months ago, when I decided to volunteer there. He was 4 years old.

Momo is a long-haired Akita, also known as a Woollie. That means he has a recessive gene that gives him his long coat, and from what I’ve learned, Woollies are often a little more mellow than regular Akitas.

When we started obedience classes, my only goal was to bond with him and understand what commands he already knew. He had clearly been well cared for, and he was already very well behaved.

The classes went so well, and he seemed to enjoy them so much, that we decided to train for the Canine Good Citizen test. Around the same time, we also joined the Pet Therapy program because Momo loves being around people. Plus, in Florida, it’s sometimes too hot to walk him outdoors, and he still needs stimulation.

We’ve been on a few Pet Therapy outings now, and as soon as he sees me put on the lanyard and pull out this specific bandana, he gets so excited.

It’s not like I have all the free time in the world. I work for myself, go to improv classes twice a week, work out, travel, and all the usual life stuff. And yet, this has become one of the most rewarding things I do.

Being out in the community with Momo is good for both of us. I really hope our story motivates someone else to visit a shelter and find their buddy.

Toby, may he RIP, was also a rescue dog, but he was reactive in public, so I feel like he sent me Momo for an entirely different experience. Both have been beautiful in their own way, because the bond with a dog is unique and special.

These pics are from yesterday at the YMCA. I LOVE gyms, and Momo got to walk the indoor track and go up and down the stairs. It seemed like maybe it was his first time doing that.

Did you know what a therapy team does?

#therapydog #akita #sarasotaflorida
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