In October 2021, 14 year old Ava and her family were invited to attend Team Training at the Miller Family Campus of Canine Companions, and was perfectly matched with service dog Ogden.

Ava’s mom, Jenn says the greatest moments between Ava and Ogden are the most subtle ones. “When Ava initiates contact with him, whether it be a little pat as she passes him by or spontaneously picks up a toy to throw to him, we are reminded of how Canine Companions has forever changed our family.” They continued that “an unexpected benefit we’ve encountered is the sense of pride and responsibility that is emerging in Ava. She’s in charge of feeding Ogden twice a day while he patiently waits as she prepares his food. Ava has difficulty expressing herself verbally, but she’s learned to give Ogden the command to “eat.” We’ve noticed a little glimmer, or possibly a smirk, on her face when he reacts to her verbal approximations.”

Sometimes Ava is frustrated by being unable to express her feelings. Occasionally she will burst into tears with her family unsure of the cause. Immediately, Ogden is there with his favorite toy, wagging his tail and making Ava smile. It’s just a natural bond that cannot be taught.

Jenn says Ava and Ogden have a deep connection with each other. “Though Ogden has only been with us for a few months, we cannot imagine our home without him.”

Your support of DogFest Long Island-NYC helps make more placements, just like Ava and Ogden, possible.

DogFest Long Island-NYC 2022 Supporting Canine Companions

DogFest Long Island-NYC 2022

DogFest Long Island-NYC 2022 Supporting Canine Companions