The Flog – The Fabry Log

Here is an update on the post about Thunder, the service dog. On Friday, 1-16, I read some stories about little things people do that mean so much. There's something about Thunder's story that gets me, and I'm hoping it gets you, too. This is a puppy picture of Thunder. Read the email from a listener who has done a lot for someone she doesn't even know. And then enjoy the pictures of this beautiful dog.


Hi Chris,
I caught the last 10 minutes of your program today and it caught my attention. I just re-listened to it.

My little puppy story began last April (2008). I became a puppy raiser for an organization called Dogs for Disabilities who provides service dogs for people with disabilities. I received a 9 week old puppy named Thunder. I did all of the puppy raising; house-breaking, obedience training, etc. After he graduated from obedience training he received his "service dog in training" vest and we went out into community to get him exposed to different environments. We went to grocery stores, the mall, a restuarant and on a train and bus.

This past Sunday, January 11, 2009 I had to say goodbye; it was time to return him so he could begin his 8 months of formal training; learning how to turn on lights, open doors, retrieve items, etc. When he completes this training he will be given to a person that has a disability. I will be able to meet this person that I helped raise this dog for.

Thunder's job will be to assist this disabled person with daily tasks; giving them their independence back. He will also provide companionship and unconditional love and make them more "approachable" by people in the community.

It is difficult to say goodbye to Thunder. However, I know that I have given someone a very special gift; the gift of independence and uncondtional love and that makes it all worthwhile.

Jodi