Wheel Me On...A Non-Profit Organization with trademark logo of American Bald Eagle and American Flag

"A Progressive Story about a Golden Doodle Service Animal"

© Copyright 2007; 2008 by Wheel Me On...

Training Accomplishments Noted Below First Article


"Princess Froggie Lovable Doodle"

by Julia Hollenbeck
© 2007; 2008

(A progressive story about an F1 Golden Doodle)

On November 30, 2007, a beautiful morning loaned a tranquil setting for a drive toward Louisville, Kentucky, where a visit to an establishment dedicated to breeding Doodles would make the ultimate decision of whether this "new" breed of canine would be the ideal match for a Service Canine. Making the decision of visiting the Breeder's Kennels was part of a decision assuring all canines were properly taken care of and the last remaining puppy would obtain association. During the past several weeks, research discovered the Doodle to be profusely desired as an ultimate Service Animal by many persons with disabilities who were both Handlers and Owners. Curiosity seemed to keep wheels in a steady motion without stopping during the 173-mile drive while venturing into the potential of a new beginning.

Once taking the exit from the freeway, the road eventually turned into an exciting venture of wonderment. Where was this place? It seemed hidden in a forest-like setting. The final turn onto the property brought wonderment with the sighting of several canines running and playing in a very large fenced playground and a large home situated on top of a hill. The breeder and an associate immediately approached with concern whether or not assistance would be required; they were thanked and assured no assistance would be necessary.

Once out of the vehicle, amazement prevailed while watching the female Doodle puppy take control of an opportunity, while she ran along the outside fence of the playground and appeared to be teasing her playmates on the opposite side of the fence. This game of, "ha, ha, ha, look at me; I'm on the outside and you're on the inside", lasted for several minutes and then her curiosity switched to the visitor after being called by name.

Fascination of this remarkable puppy enveloped the experience, but the main question: Would we bond? Persisted. This was certainly the breed desired after watching her, but what was the kennel like and how were these canines cared for? As if reading one's mind, an invitation to visit the large kennel was immediately accepted and smaller wheels on the wheelchair pulled into the building where an astonishing sight was seen.



On the right side of this large building an unknown amount of kennels, each with a private door leading to a cemented area for "potty patrols", (washed down and kept clean), were individually separated for each "family". Thus, the parents of the little Doodles lived together with their "children" until separated. Each kennel contained two large "dens" or "caves" uniquely designed and built by Charley Louiso, (one of the owners of the facility), with comfortable bedding materials on the inside. Charley also designed platforms for the dens to provide stability. It was interesting to watch Charley walk along the front of the kennels and see the interaction of the canines with him.

From the entrance, (middle photo), it was impossible to capture the length of the entire run of kennels while seated in a wheelchair. In the picture on the far right, a white standard Poodle, captured interest and made a point to pose in-between the dens.



Directed to the kennel of the parents to the Doodle puppy named "Froggy", they waited patiently while focusing attention to Charley. Noticeable along the way, (and quite notable), were the cleanliness of all kennels and separation of adjoining kennels. The Sire, a Standard White Poodle name "Doodle" and the Dam, a beautiful Golden Retriever, named "Princess" stood proudly for their photo and then, their little Doodle named "Froggy" came bouncing in for a photo with her parents through the backdoor. The three of them socialized and all paid attention to voice commands.

Lovable Doodles
Shepherdsville, KY
(Just South of Louisville off of I-65)

Owned and Operated by Charley & Anna Louiso
(With Several Additional Human Hands)

All of the canines were gorgeous, but one does not choose a potential Service Canine by beauty and instead by quality of the breed. Research provided learning the Golden Doodle rated extremely high for their intelligence and fast becoming a favorite for persons with disabilities. The latter of course, would depend on patience and positive training. Watching performance of the potential candidate and then going to the Veterinarian, making certain there is no obstacle preventing task performance was the next step on the following day.



While Charley & Anna Louiso carefully watched the Veterinarian, Foggy behaved quite well without squirming or fusing during her examination. The Veterinarian approved Froggy as an excellent task performer for service assistance. In other words, in his opinion Froggy would be able to serve as a Service Canine with the proper training and saw no reason why she would not be able to physically perform.



Most puppies are assigned long before being borne, but this puppy was a little special coming from a small litter of three and being the only female. The Breeders decided to keep her as a Breeding Female and developed a strong bond with the puppy. The extra four weeks she remained at their kennel brought her to age 12-weeks because she did not leave the kennel when her brother's did for their respective new homes at age 8-weeks or earlier.

This only tightened the bond between her and the kennel owners, but there was a near desperate woman needing to replace a former Service Canine, and have another task-performing canine before the beginning of the summer. The Breeders had a very difficult decision to make of whether to turn the puppy over to someone else. Concern and love for the puppy bred at their facility, now ran the show at the kennel as a star attraction to other canines who soon recognized she had "free run" and also protected her. This pup was the last of the female puppies of her own genealogy until another litter arrived.

Froggy was born on September 11, 2007, while her hopeful new owner was at Key West Light House and the Southernmost Tip of the Continental USA in Florida, attempting to celebrate the life of a nephew, losing his life on that fateful day six-years ago at the World Trade Center. (It was while stopping at the Southernmost Tip of the Continental USA that the reality of having to retire my present Service Canine struck home.) Looking at Froggie was remindful of a first granddaughter borne, declared a "little frog" when beginning to crawl at four months of age and later, using "Froggie" as an e-mail name when she started using the Internet. There was no doubt the accident of this canine named "Froggy" played an important role and the spelling of the name could simply be changed.

Waiting for the Breeder's final decision while admiring little "Froggie" was pain-staking but at the same time, a reality in knowing how serious these Breeders were about new ownerships very rewarding. It was hard to determine whether Charley or Anna were having the harder time making a decision and then Anna approached. "May I hold her?"

"Are you sure it is okay?" Anna asked.

Froggie on her new Handler/Owner lap

"Yes. Just place her on my lap and I will hold her."


After a few moments and final decisions, we moved outside to fill out the papers. "Froggy" would now be known as "Princess Froggie Loveable Doodle", named after her mother, the name accidently bestowed on her, the first name of the kennel where she was born and her father.

Hello... How do you do?

Froggie standing w/paws on owner's leg and Fox sitting opposite side of wheelchair Same position with both canines looking at Bob with camera Fox and Froggie standing on floor looking at each other

Among the clutter in my office, the retired Shiba Inu (Fox) came for a visit to say "good-bye" and Froggie was quick to "come" to greet him, but Fox shyly stayed in one spot waiting for his new Master to stop taking photos while showing little to no interest in Froggie. On the other hand, Froggie was rather perceptive and eager to play. The two of them got along rather well, but in truth, Fox now attached to someone else, was ready to leave. It is amazing when canines paired with the right person; how quickly they adapt. (12/05/07)

Accepting Wheels and Tennis Shoes

Froggie asleep in front of P-200 wheelchair Front view of Froggie asleep on floor, close to w/c


It may be a little hard to learn how to walk (heel) next to a rolling chair, but in truth, there is no fear of the wheels with Froggie. Most interesting are the tennis shoes laying rather close to her and respecting they are not "toys". Photo on left taken from lift chair in living room when realizing the tennis shoes where left by the wheels before transferring to second wheels. After looking at the photo, a decision to sneak through the living room, around the corner into the study, found Froggie literally protecting the smaller wheels and the tennis shoes! (12/09/07)
The First Grooming

Froggie on groom table while Jan Courteaux blow drying Froggie by hand Ruth and Froggie cheek to cheek while Jan blow dries Froggie by hand Groomer Donna Vanwinkle giving Froggie final inspection

Froggie's three-month birthday had to be a special day! What better way than to start with a full grooming at Muttz Kuttz, right next door to her Veterinarian, Doctor Kilcoyne, with the Animal Medical Center. While dashing over to the Animal Medical Center to pick up supplies, photos of her "in the tub" were missed, but returning to Muttz Kuttz, Froggie was found with Jan Courteaux lovingly drying her and Froggie rather engrossed with the sensation. Moments later, Ruth Green, Office Manager, Animal Medical Center, popped in for a visit to meet Froggie and the two of them shared their affection. After Froggie's rubdown and hand blow dry, Groomer, Donna Vanwinkle, whisked her away for the grand finale with hygiene and final inspection. What a wonderful birthday present and beautiful canine! (12-11-07)

W. G. Kilcoyne, D.M.V., Animal Medical Center
120 Kraft Street, Clarksville, TN
Telephone 931-648-8818

Muttz Kuttz
120 Kraft Street ~ Clarksville, TN
Telephone 931-542-5900

A Note from Froggie
Copyright 2008 in behalf of Froggie by Wheel Me On...

The past two months have been a very interesting experience with my new human Handler, ("Mom"), her assistants, friends and other persons I had an opportunity to meet. I never thought there would be so much excitement away from my family at the breeder's kennel playground at Loveable Doodles, but believe me when I woof ever so slightly at the joy I have found in my new home. As a Service Animal in training, I find things to do everyday that rather impress "Mom" and receive all sorts of attention, which of course, make me want to do the task over again whenever I have the opportunity. The most important thing to me is being close to Mom, whether she is sitting in her wheelchair or transferred to her desk chair, I seem to find a comfy place to stay until she moves. I am most always on her left side and when she stops someplace, I often place my paw on top of her foot on the footrest of her wheelchair.

Froggie curled up under desk with head on Mom's left foot Froggie with paw touching Mom's foot after she moved Froggie curled up on top of Mom's right foot after she moved again


Froggie with red Christmas bow over right earDecember went by rather swiftly while learning many "do not's" and "do's". On December 20, 2007, I finally discovered my tail to be an interesting sport when grabbing it and circling around several times to the joy of my Handler. On the same day, "Mom" left me in the office and closed the glass door between two rooms. I was not about to sit still for that one and decided to open the door. "She just grabbed the door handle and tried to open the door!" a worker told on me, but Mom said, "That's exactly what she is supposed to be doing!" Then opened the door the rest of the way and gave me all sorts of attention.

On the day before Christmas, there was a lot of excitement when I handed an item to Mom and later saw my own reflection in a mirror. Of course, I barked at the sight of myself! December 27 brought another visitor and when she dropped her cellular telephone, I simply picked it up and handed it to her. "Did you see that?" She excitedly asked Mom and my Handler just laughed.

Froggie taking a nap next to toy frog - CrookerJanuary seemed to go by rather quickly with a lot of time spent in the office where I stay right next to Mom most of the time. I am not as interested as what I was with playing with toys anymore, and find it a lot more interesting and fun to help whenever someone drops something. I still manage to get in trouble once-in-a while but I am learning quickly about the things I can and cannot do.

Froggie with head up looking aroundI also like to lay in the morning sun near the main office door, snoozing snuggled up next to "Crooker" who makes noises like a frog. Actually, I have three cookers, not including myself, (woof woof). One day, (earlier this month), I was taking a nap when suddenly this light shot out of nowhere. I looked up and saw Mom with her camera again. I think Mom just gets a little carried away with taking pictures sometimes but think it is a little strange she has yet to capture a few shots of me in action!

I know my training will never stop and expect to learn many more task performing things I can do to help my Handler who uses a power wheelchair as a daily means of mobility and has a hearing impairment. Perhaps there will come a time I will be able to learn tricks as well, but right now my concentration is on helping. I don't mind not going outside and running in the winter, but I have to admit I really had a blast romping in 1-inch of snow on the last day of January 2008. I enjoy being on the road, visiting human doctors, meeting their staff and have adjusted to the slippery shiny floors. My favorite times are just being close to Mom and going wherever she travels, whether a grocery store or visiting other humans further from home. Now that I have learned what Task Performance is all about, succeeding with Basic Training and declared a Task Performer, I am truly dedicated to excel in this wonderful arena.

... Princess (Froggie) Loveable Doodle
(Member of WMO Service Animal Group)
Continuing in the New Year of 2008

Froggie posed sitting in front of door on February 4, 2008
Froggie Smiles Big For the Camera After being Bathed and Groomed


Froggie sitting in snow several yards from house with replica lighthouse in backgroundFroggie in similar postion with everything covered in snowThe first snow came to Clarksville, Tennessee, on January 31 and Froggie was rather excited to play in it, but the snow did not last and by the time she finished romping around in it, she had uncovered a good section of grass. Quizzically, she looked back at the house as if to ask, "They call THIS snow?" With promises it may snow again, she decided to come back inside the house, but she had to wait two months for the next snow to appear.

When the snow arrived again on March 8, Froggie was a little bewildered as to what happened to all the grass, but enjoyed romping in the 8-plus inches of snow until called back into the house. (What happened to her lead run and pole?) Being a typical "water" canine, she learned quickly to enjoy snow and rainwater, seeking a quick "wipe down" after entering the foyer.

In between this time, Froggie became very interested in learning about Service Animals and is a member of the WMO Service Animal Group, whose members email one another, expressing their thoughts and concerns, and often receiving sound advice. Without going into a lot of detail, on February 8, Froggie decided there was too much clutter to get any work accomplished and just sat in the chair behind the desk staring across the room.

Froggie sitting behind Handler's desk in chair

Message from Froggie: "Okay, granted we just moved in here a little over a month ago, but not even I can work in this mess!"

Froggie patiently sitting on scale in small closetQuickly learning how to get on the scale and sit still to be weighed, Froggie enjoyed this little routine. In fact, this ended up being one of the more simpler things she learned to do and developed into having to tell her, "not now", if the closet doors were opened with no intention to weigh her. Obviously, it would not be long before she will only be able to be weighed on the larger scale at the Animal Medical Center and by then watching her weight will not be as important to her Handler as what it is in her early months of growth.

On the 11th of every month, something special occurs and Froggie is rewarded for the milestone with another month of age. Regardless of when her last bath occurred, Froggie is bathed and groomed within 3-days of this "special day" and most often on the day before, because she must look her very best on her special day. She is weighed and measured as well, but it appears it will not be long before Froggie will not fit on the scale her Handler allows her to use.

(Froggie gets on the scale without help and expects to be weighed when seeing the doors to this closet opened.)


Froggie lays perfectly still on a blue pad looking at camera

Princess Froggie Loveable Doodle
Six-Months Old, March 11, 2008


Froggie looking a little bewildered over the large scale she is standing onFroggie getting weighed at the Animal Medical Center was a lot different than being weighed at home and not knowing the name of the command did not help the attendant, but Froggie obviously thought all was rather curious. Froggie's 6-month birthday, planned days in advance with an appointment at the Animal Medical Center in Clarksville, Tennessee, with her favorite human friends, hoping to meet another animal or two and visit with Doctor Kilcoyne's Silver Standard Poodle, Maggie, who kept everyone under control.

Entering the lobby, she went straight to the counter, raised up, placed her front paws on the counter and then peeked over at Ruth Green. "Well, Hi Froggie!", Ruth exclaimed as she greeted her and then came around for an up-close hug, but Froggie was more interested in meeting a Beagle who had absolutely no interest in "The Frog".

Doctor Kilcoyne arrived with Maggie and Froggie missed the chance to say "hello" because she was just too busy trying to convince the Beagle to play, (who was more interested in protecting his owner), and then was called into one of the examining rooms to see Doctor Kilcoyne. Without hesitation, Froggie quickly turned and headed for the room, where she knew she would get all sorts of attention from Doctor Kilcoyne, along with his tender loving care.

Doctor Kilcoyne holding Froggie's chin up to see her eyes Doctor Kilcoyne in friendly conversation, holding Froggie's head while she is laying down on examining table looking up at him Doctor Kilcoyne laughs at Froggie's willingness to shake hands

What "The Frog" did not know was her favorite doctor was about to perform an ovario-hysterectomy. In the perfect world, protecting the species of a breed is of high importance and in our opinion, no Service Animal (male or female) should not have the proper procedure (for their sex) to eliminate possible breeding. Froggie was happy, alert and ready for her injection that would allow her to sleep through the surgery and her Handler disappeared out the door for the pet store after visiting with Doctor Kilcoyne.

Returning late in the day to pick up Froggie was an experience it itself. Froggie was excited to see her Hanlder and a neighbor, but yelped slightly when attempting to reach for a hug. As Doctor Kilcoyne walked into the examining room, Froggie eagerly greeted him and Froggie's Handler laughed. "I guess she isn't upset with you." She told the doctor.

"No, we're still friends. She doesn't know it was me that did it to her." The doctor laughed.

Froggie laying quietly on pink blanet over red pillow in officeArriving home Froggie was treated just like the Princess she is and quietly enjoyed every bit of all the attention while being settled in for the night. She slept through the night but her perkiness quickly changed on the following morning, following her Handler and hurting, there was no solution other than setting up three places for Froggie to lodge to keep her Handler in sight and stay calm.

Later in the day, a neighbor Froggie adored came to visit. Oops, the wire kennel, (lovingly referred to as Froggie's jail), was set up under her Handler's desk after being stored for several days. After Froggie's pillow was set inside, Froggie quickly entered her "jail" and settled down again. The Handler looked at her neighbor and asked, "How am I going to keep her calm for ten days?" Froggie would not eat, not even a treat, or drink any water and the Handler becoming very concerned telephoned the Animal Medical Center. Ruth Green told her to wait 48-hours, be mindful Froggie does not attempt to pull at her stitches and keep her calm, suggesting a light blanket to cover her. Sure enough, this worked!

On the third day, Froggie showed no obvious sign of discomfort. In fact, she was eating and drinking and wanting to play but the Handler placed a quick "nix" on the latter. After a brief walk outside during noon, Froggie basked in the sun inside the office where her Handler continued her work. Pampered and loved, she continued to display a pleasant demeanor, the two days of discomfort well worth her surgery and now the third day questionable:

"How does one keep 'The Frog' from playing and jumping?"


Sometimes, one just may have to have a heart to heart talk...


The answer is relatively simple: Any Handler who works with a canine considered a "puppy" must not expect more of the canine than what the canine can give. In many cases, canines are considered "puppies" until they are one year of age, but this is NOT the general rule for large bred canines, who do not necessarily mature until they are two years of age. Rather than provide a raft of examples, we will concentrate on Froggie's progress and possibly her "set-backs".

Working with a Service Canine expected to perform tasks that will be of a helpful and needed nature for a person with a disability, is not the same as with a "pet". Service Animals or Canines, as the case may be, are not trained in the same manner. A good example of this is one should probably not train a Service Canine to "attack" because that could most definitely backfire when least expected.

Restricting a puppy from being a puppy is counter-productive; find a "safe place" for puppy behavior when needed. Within a short period of time, your Service Canine will know when he/she can be a "puppy" and when puppy behavior is not accepted. It is also important to refrain from allowing strangers to communicate with your Service Canine. The general rule; "Please do not touch, look or speak to my Service Canine; (he/she) is working", is always appropriate.


May 11, 2008


Eight Months of Age

August 11, 2008

All Most Eleven Months Old

Waiting for command to retrieve and give Handler a shoe.

A Brand New Look for Froggie's Birthday!
September 11, 2008

Jude Courteaux behind counterThe morning Princess Froggie Loveable Doodle turned one year of age, a phone call was made to Muttz Kuttz for her traditional gift - grooming by a professional team! Her hair was now as long as 6-inches in length over several areas of her body and had become quite a chore for a person with limited strength to brush daily. Though she was just as pretty with a "roughed up" look as what she was when combed out, the reality was she needed to be "combed out" at least every other day and this task was becoming nearly impossible with her long hair.

During the short drive to Muttz Kuttz, a tough decision was being pondered over: "How much hair should be cut off and would the haircut make her look strange?" Leaving the final decision to Groomer Stephanie and her assistant, Shanta Thompson, at Muttz Kuttz was a wise decision when Froggie happily greeted Jan Courteaux, who whisked her away for her bath.

It was late in the afternoon when returning to retrieve Froggie, eagarally greeting Jude Courteaux, a Kennel Worker, with camera in hand. A very smart decision was asking someone else to take the precious photos, so as not to risk disturbing "The Frog" who was being quite cooperative and paying attention to every snip. The following photos were taken by Jan Courteaux who bathed Froggie:

"The Frog" was quick to notice Jan walk in with the camera and smiled quite nicely for her; the two groomers had now completed most of their extraordinary scissor cut and were completing finishing touches for "The Frog", Stephanie was now working on Froggie's right ear, while Shanta brushed her hair on her left ear.

Final touches included Froggie's paws; like a human's shoes, one of the more noticeable items on a living being and very important for any canine.


Just as important were the pads on Froggie's paw; who remained at attention while Stephanie carefully trimmed the excess hair away from in-between the pads, which will assist Froggie's performance when entering buildings with slick floors and then continued to diligently clip an even appearance, rounding out the hair without exposing her toenails. By judging from the above photos, there is no doubt Froggie knows what a camera's flash means and loves to pose for her picture.

A great deal of attention was paid to Froggie's legs and paws, worked on avidly by both Stephanie and Shanta to give this task performer comfort and an attractive appearance. Shanta appears to respond to Jan, who may well be asking about Froggie's bangs.


It would appear by the expression on "The Frog" and Stephanie, that Jan surely asked, "What about her bangs?" No doubt, Jan was told Froggie's bangs would be trimmed as well. (Days earlier, the Handler/Owner took a pair of scissors to trim them and this surely did not help Muttz Kutts Groomer's.) Ultimately, the bangs were trimmed by Stephanie and the final result turned into an award winning appearance!

There was no doubt, a certain amount of shock enveloped the Handler as she saw her Service Canine being led into the lobby, looking much like she did when she was a younger puppy. The Handler was not quite certain about "The Frog's" new look and acquainted it with having her own hair cut. (It will grow out again!) Within less than a couple of hours, the Handler not only adjusted, but was extremely pleased with her beautiful canine for a variety of reasons. Most important, she would now be able to use less energy with daily grooming!



The Muttz Kuttz Team at the Kraft Street location in Clarksville, Tennessee, pose with Froggie:
Shanta Thompson, Stephanie, Froggie, and Jan Courteaux.



Dressed to match her Handler/Owner, Froggie sits politely while waiting for one more photo before heading out the door of Muttz Kuttz to go home.
Unbeknown to her, a large rawhide bone was waiting for her.

Breaking a new barrier, on the same day, Froggie picked up a dropped credit card in an office supply store and handed it to her Handler politely. This was just the beginning; learning it was quite all right to retrieve items outside of her inner environment. On October 1, Froggie retrieved a dropped spice bottle in a grocery store and again handed it to her Handler. The latter interesting because a woman with two young children stood nearby quietly waiting and watching. Froggie continued to make the attempt and after succeeding, the woman explained to her children, "See, that is a working dog".

Not everything in life is work ~ there is always time for relaxation!

Froggie standing on hind legs looking at river Froggie turned head to look at camera

Froggie on board Tunica River Boat Cruising on the Mississippi
October 14, 2008

My First Cruise on the Island Princess
January 2009

When seeing the hustle of suitcases being packed I began wondering if I was going to be left behind because my suitcase didn't appear for several days. What a relief to finally see the suitcase come out from the closet and know I was going along with my human, who I have never been away from and really started to worry! Then I heard someone say something about a cruise and for some reason that word sounded a little familiar. I really didn't care where we were going; I just worried about being separated, but my human Mom told me not to worry and when we met with Mary Adams for her to fit me with new bandana's, I knew something neat was going to happen on this travel. We drove for a long time for three days, stopping to meet with friends along the way and I finally got to see Trooper in Orlando, then his human Dad went with us to ask Alex at Bike Works to put a new tube in Mom's manual wheelchair tire. It sure felt good to get out of the car-van and walk around while Alex repaired the tire. That night, Mom told me there would only be one more day of driving; what she didn't tell me was that I would have yet another bath before going on a much larger ship and cruising on the ocean for several days. What she didn't tell me was I would stay on the ship while she visited five different lands!

On January 13, 2009, Mom drove into a big port called "The Everglades" in Fort Lauderdale, Florida after spending another night in a hotel. She stopped and talked to someone in a cage - I think she was lost because the man in the cage told her where to drive. Then, the next thing I knew, we stopped again and a big bus in back of us honked his horn. I barked at the bus as loud as I could, telling him to cool it, but Mom scolded me and I lied back down. A nice man came up to the car-van and I watched him very carefully while he talked with Mom, then he walked away while we just sat there in the car-van, after he asked Mom to move the car just a few inches. To my surprise, he came back, removed the entire luggage, and then got inside the car-van. Mom drove around and around a parking lot, very similar to many places I've been with her, until she found a space to park the car-van. The man was name "Porter" and he helped my human Mom to a place called a "Terminal" after she parked and locked the car.

Inside this Terminal, both of us were searched. Now that kind of made me wonder exactly what was going on - were these doctors or something? ARF! I wanted to tell them to keep their hands off my vest! ARF! Mom's cameras were taken away from her and then we went through some sort of barricade and equipment I could not understand; the humans gave us back the cameras and escorted us to a place where there were other humans waiting. When I saw some other wheelers, I knew everything would be okay. In just a few short minutes, another human came up to us and I heard Mom's signal to get up and go with her. The next thing I knew, I was following someone onto the biggest ship I had ever seen! Humans called "Crew" and "Stewards" took us to a room called "Stateroom" and to my surprise, Mom's luggage was inside this stateroom, including my suitcase! "Woof!" I was sure happy to see everything there! Mom fixed me a bowl of water and then said, "Let's go check things out!" I wondered what "things" she was talking about as we headed back out of the hallway and then took an elevator to another floor called "Deck". By this time, I was hearing words I had not heard very often before and just starting to figure out what then meant. The word "Steward" actually meant "Elmer Mendoza" who helped my human Mom with a lot of things. The humans called "Staff" could be most anyone from "Mr. Bobs to Julio or Felipe" and several others I met who wore special suits. "Passengers" were humans just like my Mom traveling on this same ship.

Hand holding pink ticket for Froggie to takeFroggie standing inside box staring at cameraI think we went to Deck 14 where there were a lot of things happening, music was being played by humans called a "band" and many humans were dancing. I think it was Julio Soto, Junior Assistant Cruise Director from the Cruise Staff, who offered me a pink ticket for a drawing, but I shyly pulled away because I knew I was not supposed to "take" anything unless my human Mom told me too. On the same day, another human showed me where my box was for my potty patrol, but I was more interested in what the noises where coming from below the stairwell and would not listen to Mom's commands.

On the next day, Cruise Captain Mr. Bobs arranged to have my box moved to my own private room one deck above the one where our room was located, complete with a live potted plant for me to sniff, but then my human Mom pulled out her camera to take a picture of me. WHAT? I just stood there and grinned real big for her. NO WAY! BARK!!

I didn't have to work very hard and it sure was a lot easier for me to help my human Mom out of bed every morning. I went every place Mom did and met a lot of people. We often looked at the ocean and I wondered if the ship was going to be our permanent home. It was starting to look that way with Mom going to dinner every night; I thought it was kind of neat to go all the way under the dinner table and hide beneath the table cloth. ARF! I don't think Mom knew I was in there backwards and watching the other humans! We spent a lot of time talking to many passengers who often mentioned my name or would ask to touch me. Sometimes, Mom would let them.

On our second night, Julio Soto, Junior Assistant Cruise Director, was in the Wheelhouse after dinner when we arrived and asked to play with me. When I heard my human Mom say, "Go for it", I did, and wrestled Mister Julio to the floor!

Froggie pins Juiio to floor Julio attempting wards off Froggie to get up off the floor

I pinned him down and Mister Julio was laughing so hard, he could not hardly breath while other passengers laughed too, so I thought it was all right, but then I heard my human Mom say, "That's enough" and I knew I had to stop.
Froggie trying to dance with Julio Julio rubs and pats Froggie

We sailed on the sea for over two days then I heard my human Mom talking to another person named Rusty Wilson who would always come up to me to say hello. He asked her if he could keep me while my Mom went to shore on the island of Aruba, and I really became very worried because I did not understand when she would come back. Mom tried to explain to me why I could not go with her, but she didn't understand I just wanted to know when she would be back. On January 16, the Island Princess, (hey, this ship has one of MY names!), pulled in to dock at Oranjestad at the island of Aruba.

Mister Rusty came to get me and I was just a little leery, but Mom told me to, "Go with Mister Rusty", so I did. He took me off the ship and into a different terminal I had not seen before and then we went outside. Suddenly, I spied my human Mom inside a vehicle being driven away. She waved at me and it just made me feel worse, but Mister Rusty took me for a long walk until I needed to rest and then invited me inside his stateroom where I just laid on the floor and pouted until I saw him messing with some camera equipment.

If there is anything I do understand, it is the flash of a light from an object called a camera. When I saw him messing around with the camera, I knew right away he was fixing the settings for a photo of the two of us together. I think he told me to get up on his bed, but was not sure if he used the same command Mom would have used. I must have done the right thing because after the first picture, he lied down next to me for us to have our picture taken together and right at the exact moment, I decided to give him a big smooch!
Froggie laying on carpet  in Rusty Wilson's stateroom Froggie on bed smiles big for camera Froggie give Rusty a big smooch on the cheek

I'm not even sure when Mom got back; I was tired and just wanted to rest, but I had a lot of fun that day with Mister Rusty. We sailed on the ocean some more and Mister Elmer helped me help my human Mom. When we stopped at another land, Mister Elmer would keep me company while Mom was gone. I liked Mister Elmer too and when he laughed at me, I would just cock my head and look at him. One day, he was leaving our stateroom and I barked at him when Mom was gone. He opened the door back up and asked me if I wanted to go potty. BARK BARK! Mister Elmer rode the elevator with me and Mom wasn't there with her camera. Woof!
Steward Elmer Mendoza leans against the deck rail while cruising the Panama Canal

We arrived at the Panama Canal and I went with Mom to help her take photos. I really still don't understand what the Panama Canal is and when I saw that land right next to the ship I could not figure out why the ship was still moving. I think the ship must have wheels like my human Mom's wheelchair, but she didn't get off the ship for a while. Mister Elmer came outside after a short while to check on us and Mom took a picture of him. (Now he knows how I feel when she wants to take a picture of me!) Later, I got to spend time with him again. He was my buddy whenever Mom left taking me for short walks until Mom came back. Sometimes, he would open the door and just peek in at me in the stateroom and say, "Hi Froggie", and when he took his break from work he would watch television with me too.

On this big ship, my human Mom would sometimes get lost and I would try to guide her to where she wanted to go. I was learning very quickly which places she had to be and even memorized the time. I met a lot of nice humans called people and could not help but want to give them a hug because they were so special.

Froggie gives Fran Herrick a hug Froggie rears  up to Peter Herrick

Froggie sits next to her box in her special roomFelip, Froggie and JulioFran and Peter Herrick were special humans; Fran spent time visiting us and helped get me water to drink from a small ice cream cup. I was very careful and did not knock the cup over until one day when I couldn't resist chasing after some ice inside of it, but I didn't get scolded because we were on something called a "pool deck".

While the ship sailed back to Florida, Mom ordered me to sit still to have my picture taken in my special room. I think she must have lost her mind because she NEVER took a picture of me when I went to the box outside at home. In fact, she just told me to "hurry up". I guess there was something special about the box on the ship - I don't know, but I decided to listen to her stern words and not move until she told me too.

On the day we arrived back in Florida, Julio Soto and Felipe Carvac asked my human Mom to take a photo of us together. I wanted to play, but she finally got me to sit still long enough for one last flash of light.

I had a lot of fun on this cruise and all the humans were very nice to me. When my human Mom was escorted to get our luggage, we walked past a long line of passengers and I could hear my name being called, but Mom just kept telling me to follow the man in front, so I didn't have a chance to say "good-bye". I will miss all of them, but maybe someday I will go on another cruise and see them again.




Basic (Boot Camp) Training
(Commands Accomplished in less than Two Weeks by Handler/Owner)

Name Recognition
Potty Patrol (House-broken)
Sleeps in Own Bed Overnight - No Longer Using Kennel
One Call to Report for Duty
Sits and Waits for Command to Eat
Takes Biscuit Without Over Enthusiasm
Waits on Command
Sits on Command
Stays on Command
Leaves Items Alone on Command; Recognizes Her own Belongings
Walks on Command; Taking Lead Only When Necessary
Scales Heights (appropriate for canine's size)
Alerts Handler

Accomplished Basic Training - January 31, 2008
(20-Weeks Old; 39-Pounds, 20 ½-Inches Tall at the Withers)

Retrieves Harness and Takes to Handler
Readily Adapted to Collar; No longer wears harness except for potty patrols at home
Remains "at ease" with head and body in a lay down position when Handler eats
Willingly Enters Vehicle via lift and Retreats to Cargo Area when Traveling on Road
Retired from Kennel; Full Run of Residence
Sleeps next to Wheelchair; Allowed on Bed if Desired
Remains at Attention for Grooming
Sits or Lays Down Next to Wheelchair when in Places of Public Accommodation
Respects Service Animal Vest as Uniform in Public; Behaves Accordingly

Advancement - March 11, 2008
(6-Months Old; 47.7 pounds, 23-Inches Tall at the Withers)

Potty on Command
Stays in Bed until Handler Awakens
Displays Friendly Association with People, Canines and Veterinarian
Waits to Enter Vehicle on Command; Goes to Designated Position
Waits Appropriately to Leave Vehicle on Command
Graduated to 1-inch wide Collar and matching Lead
Displays Appropriate Behavior in Variety of Public Accommodations

Advancement - September 11, 2008
(12-Months Old; 61 pounds, 24-Inches Tall at the Withers)

Retrieves Leash on Command
Stays Close to Handler at All Times
Remains in "Lay-Down" Position during Handler's Appointments
Waits Patiently for First Morning Potty Patrol

Task Performance

Retrieves Items Dropped and Gives to Handler
Takes Item from Individual/Handler and Gives to Individual/Handler on Command
Alerts Handler when Someone Approaches Residence
Aggressively Alerts Handler when Suspecting Danger
Allows Handler to Use Her Body as Brace

Disposition & Character - Age 12 Months

Allows Handler to Remove Food while Eating
Turns Loose of Edible Item and Willing Gives to Handler
Approaches another Canine Gently; Not Aggressive
Extremely Attached and Watchful of Handler



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