Hazel

Placement | August 2020

Some are scared of change, but I'm excited for my future! Unfortunately some health issues came up which removed me from the training program. I was adopted by my amazing foster family, Sam and Mackenzie, and I am thrilled to spend every day playing with and loving on them! Thank you to all who helped me get to this point.

Hazel's Journey

Stage 1 Introduction

Hi! My name is Hazel.  I am proud to have been selected to enter into the Retrieving Freedom training program.  My parents are “Timber” and "Razor" from the Norris Family. During this stage of training I will be spending approximately 8 months with my new volunteer foster, Mackenzie. 

Throughout Stage 1, I will learn the basics obedience, public behavior, and a lot of socialization. I understand that it takes a very special dog to complete the program as there is a high standard to become a Service Dog. I am aware that I may be one of the dogs whose purpose is outside of service work so I will be updating my profile on a monthly basis for all that would like to follow my journey through the program.   

August 2019 - 2 months old

This month I got to meet my new foster, Mackenzie! I am thrilled to spend the next 8 or so months learning alongside her. 

October 2019 - 4 months old

My foster Mackenzie has a lot to say about me! So far we have spent 3 months together, and here's what she says: "Hazel Grace will be 5 months old on Nov. 3! We are currently working on “place” and “left”. We are also working on our recall skills off leash when we get distracted. She does amazing in public and at work with me. She plays very well with other dogs and loves to meet new people. Her new talent is playing with three toys at once: two in her mouth and one with her feet. She also loves sleeping in in the morning and is the best snuggler. She has become a highlight in my community and has brought smiles to many faces. I can’t wait to see where her journey takes her!"

December 2019 - 6 months old

Merry Christmas! Mackenzie says I'm the best gift under the tree, and that I definitely made the "nice list" this year. 

February 2020 - 8 months old

This month I was able to have a week-long play date with my older sister, another RFI service dog in training, Raven! Mackenzie fostered Raven, too, and it was a joy for all of us to be together. Mackenzie can't believe that I'm bigger than her, even though she is a year older than me. We are similar in many ways, yet very different. Mackenzie and I also gave a presentation to a local classroom. It's great to inform young people about service dogs and what we do!

March 2020 - 9 months old

I can almost always be found with a toy near me, in my mouth, or under me as I nap. Bruce (my stuffed animal) is my absolute favorite!

April 2020 - 10 months old

Well, quarantine couldn't have come at a better time. I went into my first heat cycle this month (enjoy the photo of me in a diaper!), so I've been staying home while my fosters work from home, too. I'm working on building confidence and lowering kennel anxiety. I love to play with friends and I'm learning fun tricks during the down time, like balancing treats on my nose!