Cathy and Isaac: A note to LARPBO

by Cathy  Cozier Michalak (Aug 18 2018)

Last year I happened to see Liz Anderson mention LARPBO on Nextdoor.com. I checked out the website and it sounded like a dream come true. No breed or behavior restrictions? Multiple trainers with experience beyond Labradoodles (nothing against Labradoodles 😀)? Drop in scheduling? Proper equipment and safety emphasized? Agility equipment at the classes? CGC testing? I’ve trained dogs for decades and gone to many different training classes and finding LARPBO was like I’d found everything on my training wish list all rolled into one.

Going to our first class confirmed it and, shortly after, Isaac passed his CGC and therapy dog evaluations. Two things I’d had on my bucket list since Isaac came to our house as a weekend foster and never left.

Yesterday we had a very emotional visit at Stars Behavioral Health Group — the mental health facility where we volunteer. LARPBO was crucial in accomplishing this, something I’d dreamed of doing for years. Thank you!

Last night’s therapy visit: Isaac had a breakthrough with a client. In seven months, this young man never wanted to pet or interact with Isaac and Isaac sensed that, keeping his distance. Last night this client was seated in the room and Isaac walked directly toward him. As Isaac walked right up to where he was sitting, I kept a very close eye for signs that Isaac was making the young man uncomfortable. To everyone’s surprise, the young man reached out and gently pet Isaac on the top of his head! 🎉

Isaac also made the day of another client when he decided to climb in her lap. ❤️

And the kids made the sweetest thank you card for us.

PHOTO NOTES: Names and faces have been excluded for privacy.

Follow Isaac’s adventures on Instagram @isaacthegsd.

Follow Stars Behavioral Health Group on Instagram @starsbehavioralhealthgroup.