This special ceremony had all the pomp of any graduation, but it was one of the most emotionally-filled gymnasiums I've been seated in. You see, this was the Indiana Canine Assistance Network's (ICAN) Class of 2011 graduation.
ICAN's mission: “Changing lives and unleashing abilities on both ends of the leash” is accomplished by utilizing incarcerated adults in Indiana's prison system as handler/trainers. These individuals train these incredible animals to become assist companions for children and adults with disabilities.
As the dogs go through their two-years of training, they are furloughed with ICAN volunteers for two to three weeks at a time. These individuals monitor how the dogs react to everyday life/situations. My boss is an ICAN volunteer, so over the last two years, we've had several dogs at work who are in various stages of their training. What a way to work . . .
I'd be sitting at my computer lost in a moment and in came Charlotte, one of the dogs who graduated last night, tail wagging and a toy in her mouth. Any frustration I might have had would be gone and for a few minutes, we'd have our time together. Can't beat that!
I met Charlotte's new family last night. She wagged her tail when I called her name, but she was more focused on the little girl she will now be partnered with. I saw Tippy, a black lab and golden mix, who is ICAN's first dog trained specifically for diabetic detection. He goes over to his partner and sniffs when he detects low (and high) blood sugars . . . before his partner does. This is an incredible success story.
Time and time again last night, people (handlers and newly-partnered people) spoke about the impact this program has made in their lives. From the assistance these dogs provide to their people partners, to the love and devotion that goes both ways, to the incredible building of the human spirit. ICAN provides great opportunities.
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So, I drove home to the farm with my eyes and my heart opened so much more. What an incredible experience it was to see the bond between dog and handler, dog and partner.
God is good.
