This dog had his day

Toby has the love of God in his heart. All he wants to do is stand beside the road and be a friend to man.

Maybe he'll get to spread more love now that he's passed his therapy dog test. The test certifies that dogs are safe to visit in hospitals, nursing homes or other therapy situations.

It wasn't easy. The evaluator gave him a little leeway because the white picket fence around the testing ring was obviously discomfiting. Maybe the metal latticework reminded him of prison bars at Sawmill Animal Hospital.

There were 18 challenges and Toby had to pass all 18.

I knew he would be great with kids -- he's used to teenagers worrying the dog out of him. But I feared the required encounter with numerous old people speaking gibberish and buzzing around on crutches. That would be scary to any species.

Not Toby.

He acted as if the ranting handicaps didn't exist.

He sailed through "sit," "stay," "come" and "wait with a friendly stranger."

His family was so proud -- even Papa called to congratulate him.

So let him be an example to all of us easily-agitated humans.

Toby's advice:
Don't be afraid of loud noises or uncomfortable encounters.

If they ask you to perform, share your talents with others.

Make friends easily.

Be tolerant of children and old people.
and, oh yeah...

Don't get fenced in.