When Michele fell in love with Finn, it was with a still-heavy heart.
She had recently lost her beloved Cooper to cancer. They had trained together through our local Lend A Heart Lend A Hand Animal Assisted Therapy organization. Cooper had a very special role at the Yuba City Library reading with children – so much so that they named a special section after him, “Cooper’s Corner.”
Michele’s hope was that Finn would one day be ready to join her and contribute again to this amazing organization. (Note: today, some of the group was at the Butte Fire here in California, lending comfort to those displaced.) I remember her visiting with this fur ball almost daily until he was ready to go home. (This is Finn nearly sleeping through his puppy assessment.)
Sometimes she would wonder aloud if he had the energy or personality to become a therapy dog.
If last week’s class was any indication, I think that question has been answered.
He just needed to grow into his playful self. And he found the perfect match in Summer! Let the games begin!
Big paws to fill? Finn’s got this.
Gardens For Goldens 
Cute as a button and I’m certain he’ll not disappoint. Sorry to hear about Cooper. I love watching dogs play and wrestle, so much fun!
The hardest part about loving any animal is that they live for such a short time. We morn the loss of all our cats, but alway find room for more.
Lovely pictures one and all. I love watching them wrestle. So darn cute.
Aw, what cuties! I love watching puppies play together! I’m sure Finn will be a great therapy dog.
My condolences to Michele on her loss of Cooper. I know the pain of losing a beloved canine companion to cancer too, as you know. My only consolation is that my girl isn’t hurting any more. I hope Michele can find peace and comfort in her memories of Cooper.
the best ever job is therapy dog! high paw and sorry for your loss I lost 2 of my senior pawsisters this summer, it took me a couple of months to bounce back to normal
What wonderful pictures. Finn sure is a cutie. I’m sure he will be a wonderful therapy dog. Sorry to hear about Cooper.
Gentle peace to Michelle. Finn sure looks like a comfort! 🙂
What important work beautiful Cooper did with you, Michelle, and Finn will make his own unique contribution, that’s clear!
Finn looks ready to go and what a sweet little guy he is. He has big paws to fill, and I am sure he will. 🙂
So sorry about Cooper. I have lost two Golden’s this year. Feeling the pain.
Too hard. I’m very sorry for your loss.