Sometimes the best way to conquer grief is to seek out new opportunities. For Bobbie and Dave, the heartbreak that came after losing their pet dog prompted them to find something dog-related to assist in moving forward and refocusing their attention to something positive. The volunteer foster program at the Puget Sound Field Office in Seattle offered them just that; the chance to experience the love of a dog, while giving back to their local community.
Fostering Ponzu, a service dog in training that is soon to be placed with someone with a disability in the Puget Sound, has healed them in ways they never thought possible.
“This program allows you to both share yourself and think outside yourself,” shared Bobbie.
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Daily walks with Ponzu have allowed them to reconnect with their neighbors, something they’d missed out on for a year after losing their pet dog. Knowing he will go on to enhance the independence of a person with a disability, and getting to share about that with their community makes it all the more enjoyable.
“Fostering for Canine Companions has broadened our emotional base. Our happiness is greater and our joys feel brighter with this new sense of purpose we’ve been given.”