A Year Without Nick

Nick and I

Walking together for the last time

Smelling the flowers

Educating the Public at County Fair

8 weeks and a cute puppy vest

First Bus Ride

 Today marks the day I sent Nick off into the world to be a guide dog. It feels as if it has been 5 years since than. No matter what kind of puppy raiser you are, you will always have a special connection with your first puppy.

Saying Goodbye

 
 Nick taught me a lot of things about life. He taught me that I'm not always right and I have to get help from other people in order to do my 100%. He taught me a world full of patience that I will have for a life time, even if I'm not the most patient with people, I will always be patient with my animals. He taught me that things don't happen over night and it takes a long time, lots of practice, and hard work to get the results you want. He taught me responsibility for myself and for others. He taught me how to relax and let things happen and that everything will turn out okay in the end. He taught me how to say goodbye.

 I won't lie. Giving up your puppy hurts. It hurts a lot. But watching them learn and grow into a working service dog that can help someone else is the most wonderful thing in the world. The first time I saw pictures of Nick working in harness, I cried. I'm very proud of him and proud of myself for all of the work I put into him.

In Harness

The day in august when I found out he had been career changed because he was to smart to guide, I also cried. I didn't know what would happen to him or where he would end up. I know very little about what Nick is doing today. He is supposedly working as a mobility and PTSD dog for a veteran in california, but that's all I know. I wish I knew more, I sent his dad a letter over winter break hoping to hear something back. But if he needs his privacy I understand and respect it.

Saying goodbye hurts but it's worth it in the end. He's a special dog and I know that what ever he's doing right now, he's doing great at. I miss him very much but I also know that his job is very important.

Those big brown eyes

I love you Nicky butt <3
Kyia 

Taking a rest