Just thought you might enjoy a picture of our new addition. She is 8 weeks old, weighs 11 pounds. Mom is a golden retriever, Dad is a black lab. We are raising her for the next 14-16 months for Canine Companions for Independence. We will go to Kindergarten puppy classes weekly for the next three months, then every other week after that. She will "graduate" in Feb or May of 2004 then go back to San Francisco for more extensive training for 6-9 months then be placed with her lifelong human. Yes, we will cry when that time comes - she has only been with us for two days and has already stolen our hearts.

This whole process began with Janine who has wanted a dog since she could say the word. I was not a "dog-person" and did not intend to become one - ever. I made the mistake of watching the movie "My Dog Skip" a couple of years ago and when the girls both ganged up on me in September about getting a dog, wellll.......... A tax client of mine has raised dogs for CCI for a number of years. I contacted her and we have been in the application process since October. Since I had never had a dog of course I had and still have many questions but I think we can provide a lot of love and nurturing for Kierra and receive much in return.

There is only a 30% chance that she will be placed with a lifelong human.  CCI has an excellent breeding program and extremely high standards for lifetime placement. In the event she is not placed, she will be offered back to us. If we say no, she can be offered to a friend or family member and if that does not work out, CCI has a closed waiting list of people that recognize the value of the dog and wonderful training that has gone on.

Hugs - Chris