Vicki Simons

Nike is my 7^th dog I’ve raised for Canine Companions for Independence and my 3^rd dog to graduate. It’s extremely gratifying. The ultimate goal is to see the dog you raised graduate, but there is so much more to the journey.

We welcome these little miracles into our hearts and homes at just 8 weeks old. We train and social them from day one. We go on walks and hikes and vacations together. We train and socialize at lots of fun and unique places. We do presentations and represent at information booths at various events to spread awareness and recruit volunteers. Nike helped me inspire two new puppy raisers who have joined the Canine Companions family, and the Northern Ohio Chapter and I have gained new friendships.

We got to travel to TEAM 2016 and visit the Santa Rosa headquarters together where we met one of Nike’s littermates and lots of puppy raisers, breeder caretakers, graduates, staff and assistance dogs in training. We stayed an extra day with our Chapter friends and went sightseeing in San Francisco.

Nike graduated as a facility dog. He works in a school system with special needs children. He will inspire and motivate them, build confidence, and be a friend. What a beautiful end to a wonderful journey!