PAT

Ivy made me so proud today! Showing off for NSD trainer Amy, Ivy behaved as though we completed advanced training yesterday! Ivy passed her public access test with flying colours! Way to go Ivy!

Ivy at the park, burning off energy before her big test!

Birthday cards for Ivy

Ivy and Cayleb's classmates made birthday cards for Ivy!

First day of school

I have to admit that when I first learned a service dog was an option for Cayleb I was sceptical! 'Right, a busy mother of three, one of whom has autism and takes off all the time with no regard to danger, is going to be able to handle a dog' I thought. 'Just what we need, more responsibility'.

Everything about having Ivy couldn't be further from my original thoughts. What a difference she has made in Cayleb's life, in our lives!

A child who is on his own agenda, ready to take off without notice is now safely secured to his dog. Going out in public is no longer the complete nightmare of losing my child. 

Knowing Cayleb is attached to Ivy and that be is safe is a piece if mind that is priceless. Having his best friend Ivy at Cayleb's side when he is upset or scared gives Cayleb a tool to learn how to calm himself down.

Today Ivy is training at Cayleb's school with the EAs in his class. She will now be a familiar face in the halls opening new opportunities and offering Cayleb independence.

Today Cayleb has his best friend at his side and today I will give Ivy a big hug, holding back tears as I say thank you to the dog who has changed Cayleb's world.

$25,730

Another $105.21 from Tomken Chocolate Bars! We are now at $25,730!
So close!!

It's Ivy and Cayleb's BIG DAY!!

Nearly three years has past since that night I sat at my work computer and filled out the National Service Dog application form. Today has finally arrived, today Ivy is training at ErinOak with Cayleb!

It was really weird for Ivy and me when I handed her leash over to NSD trainer Vicki and said goodbye. Ivy looked utterly confused that I was not taking her back home with me after dropping off Cayleb.

Cayleb was acting ridiculously excited this morning on our way to ErinOak-so happy that his best friend will be at his side 24/7 from now on. 

 

Annual Bottle Drive

The annual Paws for Cayleb bottle drive has begun!

Last year we collected just over $250 collecting empties. 

This year we are already off to a good start! Do you think we can match last year's efforts or surpass them? 

WPBT

Back in the fall, Bryceson's class choose Paws for Cayleb and WWF as the two charities for which their class buisness would work to raise money. The buisness was named WPBT (World, Paws, Bazaar, Theatre). 

Through a TON of hard work including running at school events (hot chocolate & books cafe, raffle and a family fun movie night) as well as approaching local buisnesses WPBT well surpassed my expectations. 

Not only did they raise just over $915 for Paws for Cayleb, but they did it with excitement, energy and a contagious passion that only 8-10 year olds can spread. The support our family felt from Mrs. Belford, her students and the community was nothing short if heart warming.

I am thrilled, as a parent, that my son was involved in such an amazing class project while experiencing what true community is all about!