Natalia Supporting Others

by Carolyn Cothran

Natalia, akaTali, was one of my favorite dogs. She looked like a very large Border Collie. She had such a wonderful temperament. I saw her living on the lakefront near my home. The family who had her couldn’t afford to keep her and we took her. Her friendly disposition got her adopted very quickly by a farmer who raised chickens. What we learned is that this sweet girl loved to chase chickens! She came back to us.

One day this wonderful couple, Becca and Alan, came out and said they were looking to find a large dog to serve as an assistance dog for children with mobility issues. I thought of Natalia right away. She never jumped on humans even though she was very happy when one enters her kennel. Alan, saw right away that she has a strong desire to please. They adopted her and reported that they were crazy about her and was learning how to be a service dog.

I was invited by the wonderful couple to speak at a Rotary Club meeting where they were bringing Tali to show what they were doing. She happily recognized me and was so amazing! In a few short months, this amazing dog was so well- behaved, happy and truly loved. She will make an excellent service dog and her life will be that of helping children and getting the love she so richly deserves.