Entry Category:
Dog
Entrant's First NameJennifer
Your Pet's Rescue StoryCambrie's Journey: From Shelter Pup to Certified Therapy Dog
At just 8 months old, Cambrie's life took a turn for the better when she found herself at the Palm Valley Animal Society in Edinburg, Texas. Despite being healthy, this young pup was underweight and in need of a loving home. The shelter, bursting at the seams with animals in need, made the decision to transport Cambrie to Orlando, Florida, where her fate would change forever.
In Orlando, Puppy Pleaser Rescue took Cambrie under their wing, and that's where I entered the picture. Initially fostering Cambrie for my mother, my husband and I soon realized that this special dog was meant to be a permanent part of our lives.
When Cambrie first arrived in our home, she was a bit fearful but overflowing with love. Recognizing the potential, I immediately began working on building Cambrie's confidence and skills. Basic obedience classes helped Cambrie learn essential commands, while trips to Beyond the Leash doggy daycare allowed her to socialize with other dogs and people, slowly bringing her out of her shell.
As Cambrie blossomed in her new environment, her true personality began to shine. Her intelligence and eagerness to please became evident, and we decided to challenge Cambrie further. Together with Beyond the Leash, we worked towards and achieved impressive accomplishments:
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification
- Urban Canine Good Citizen certification
- AKC Trick Dog title
- AKC FIT Dog designation
But Cambrie's greatest achievement was yet to come. With her gentle nature and newly gained confidence, Cambrie found her true calling as a certified therapy dog for Orlando Health. Now, this once-underweight shelter pup brings comfort and joy to patients, proving that with love, patience, and dedication, rescue dogs can transform not only their own lives but the lives of others.
Cambrie's journey from an overcrowded shelter in Texas to becoming a beacon of hope in Orlando's healthcare system is a testament to the potential of rescue dogs and the power of second chances. Her story reminds us that every dog, given the opportunity and love, can become an extraordinary companion and even a hero in their own right.