The Beginning

I'm starting to get cold feet.

When I first applied to become a Puppy Raiser for Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) I never thought I would actually get approved (my extremely optimistic self).

I had always wanted a dog of my own but the time never seemed right. I first heard about CCI through work about two years ago but I didn't do much research. This past summer I ran across an email asking for volunteers to raise a puppy from 8 wks to about 14 months. I asked everyone I knew what they thought about the idea. Everyone said it sounded great idea but it would be hard to give up the puppy after taking care of it for so long. So after a few months of contemplating with the idea I finally decided to apply.

To my surprise, I will be picking up FLORIDA V on Wednesday, exactly two months after applying!!!

My heart starts racing and a smile illuminates my face every time I think about it. I know this will be a very big change and a struggle at first and at the very end when I have to turn her in. What will get me through this adventure is the thought that one day, Florida could possibly become a service dog and help someone live a much fuller life.