Have you read the book, “A Dog’s Purpose”? It’s a story about a dog who finds meaning in his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love. It’s a fictional story, but I believe dogs really do come to this planet with a purpose.
As a service dog trainer, I had Ricochet’s life planned out from the moment she was born. She was to be a service dog for a person with a disability. The only thing I left out of my plan was Ricochet. Little did I know, she had plans of her own. One day on the beach, she jumped on a surfboard with a boy who is quadriplegic and counter-balanced it as they rode to shore. That was the day I realized her life purpose. When I finally embraced Ricochet's true calling, amazing things began to unfold. Then the four-legged student became the teacher, showing me--and the world--just how much good one dog with a “think different, out-of-the-box” approach can do. With every wave she rides, she heals hearts and transforms lives. Ricochet’s protégé, Cori is following in her paw steps too. Like Ricochet, she has chosen her own life purpose. This time, because of what I learned with Ricochet, I was able to identify it much earlier. She has a passion for water rescue, so we created a program for her called Canine-assisted Swimming for kids with autism, special needs, fears or other challenges. She is also training for water rescue with SICS Italian water rescue school in Italy. |
Ricochet was very fortunate to discover her life purpose, and even more fortunate to live it. She has a connection with millions of people all over the world as an animal messenger of sorts, delivering messages of inspiration and powerful life lessons. Her divine purity and the essence of her soul speak directly to the heart of those she interacts with. Her spirit has graced other people's lives, touching, stirring, nurturing and imparting wisdom. If you permit your dog to be who they truly are, if you allow them to communicate, if you listen to them, trust them, respect them and nurture their instincts, you will learn what your furry best friends are on this earth to teach you. I hope the stories of Ricochet and Cori’s experiences on this website will help guide you, as you move closer to your dog’s purpose… and maybe yours too! |