US logo

AmeriDogs.com
"A Dog is for Life, not Just for Christmas"  




 

 

 

 


Kelsie
2004

S

 

  

West Highland White Terrier

Every year, the American Kennel Club
presents its Award for Canine Excellence to dogs who
"enrich, inspire or contribute to the lives of individuals and communities".

Awards are given out in 5 categories: Exemplary Companion Dog (ECD),
Law Enforcement (LAW), Search and Rescue (SAR),
Service (S), and Therapy (T)

Here is the story of one such dog:
Toms River, New Jersey   Kelsie, a 5-year-old West Highland White Terrier, is a certified Medical Response Service Dog for Loren Marino. She has given a renewed spirit of independence and confidence to Ms. Marino who suffers from several life-threatening conditions. Kelsie monitors her and signals in a variety of specific ways when there is a medical emergency. 

In addition, she can activate medical alert systems, retrieve resuscitating medication or human assistance. As a Lieutenant Commander for the U.S. Navy, Ms. Marino trained dogs for the military before being severely wounded in the line of duty. She used her extensive experience to train Kelsie, teaching her to perform more than 200 tasks such as retrieving objects, and operating handicap doors, levers and buttons. 

The pair are committed to educating the public about the medical and psychological value of service dogs through frequent demonstrations in schools, community centers and corporate offices. They are also dedicated visitors to local nursing homes where Kelsie's magnetic personality brings joy to the oldest and frailest members of the community. Kelsie, who is now a mother of two certified service dogs, has helped Ms. Marino to realize that even with limitations, one can still live life to its fullest.

 

Back to West Highland White Terrier