October 4, 2013 One of our Candle Hill puppy families was selling their house. When the new buyers came with their children to look at the property, Valor, from Max and Sara, was there. Valor, from Max and Sara 2009, with Ann after winning in Nose Work. In reply to her email about Valor: “Just in case you might be persuaded to get a “Valor” puppy. Take a look at Elizabeth’s web site. Her goal for the dogs she breeds: “Our goal at Candle Hill Shepherds is to produce “a dog a burglar will run from but a child can hug.” I think we proved the latter yesterday.” They wrote the following: “That’s a perfect description. Yesterday, I looked out in the yard and saw the poster child for the perfect family dog. Valor was fun, energetic, GENTLE and an amazing companion. She matched the energy of the children perfectly. She was Jesse’s best soccer companion and then dialed down and listened to the commands of 4 yr. old Maya. I’m still stunned by Valor’s nose work… not just her success but her rigorous search methodology. She’s an amazing dog and you guys have done a great job training her. Please let her know that if Pasadena is too warm for her beautiful winter coat, she’s certainly invited back to 132 Wilton.” 9/25/13 From Pat who has Rika, the Therapy Dog, out of Strongheart and Ulrika.

Rika continues to amaze and please. Recently at Walter Reed we were hanging out with kids getting chemo. We were getting ready to leave when a nurse asked if we could stay for just a few more minutes and help with a child. The child had to get 2 shots, one in each thigh after chemo. He was not happy and was screaming and crying. That is until Rika put her front paws on the bed and then he broke into a smile followed by a laugh. It is as near to crying as I have come. The nurses and parent could not have been more appreciative. It was a priceless event.

Thank you for the best dog in the world…at least our world.

Pat

Here is Rika in her special outfit to amuse the children she visits: