Very Happy Heart Here

I've done a few posts in the past referring to my desire to volunteer for a worthy charity that trains dogs.  I am in early (unplanned)  retirement myself and although I  have several friends that visit me regularly,  I do still get very  lonely at times.  I have researched adopting a dog from a local shelter, but I really cannot afford the $200-300 or more adoption  fee they request to be  paid  for desexing , microchipping, etc.   I would also be responsible for future  vet bills, which could possibly be thousands....anyway....

I have now had two home inspections and two home interviews for the  charity I wish to help out.  It turns out that my medical issues and financial issues do not make me unsuitable after all.

What I do have going for me is a lifelong love of dogs, a yard with secure fences and gates, and plenty of time at home.  In fact, the second interviewer said "you are perfect". 

I  have NEVER thought of myself as perfect LOL, but this could be a nice situation for me.  I would have a companion, maybe for a weekend, maybe for a few months, and all expenses are already paid.  I just need to provide a safe and loving home while the dog is in training.

 I have had to sign confidentiality statements since my last posts, and I am fine with that.  It is still ok for me to blog in more general terms though.  I have an appointment  for my "people" training this coming Friday morning and after that, who knows?  I don't know  yet if I need more training after that.  These dogs cost $30,000  EACH from birth to completing their training at the age of two,  so it is important for their human contact to be consistent.  When I go to my human training, I will learn some verbal commands,  the rules for feeding and treats,  about sleeping arrangements, etc.

 My second interviewer said she will keep me busy.  I don't know yet how soon I will get a dog after my training session but will keep you posted. 

I think being able to help out in this way will be just awesome for me.  The only downside is that I cannot get too attached to any one dog, but I think if there is a regular supply, I  just  might be ok!   xx debbie