Meet TJ - April 2020 | COPE Service Dogs

While we are all pulling together during these trying times, we thought it might cheer everyone up with a weekly visit with one of COPE’s amazing future service/facility dogs. Just like humans, each of our dogs has a very unique personality and story. Enjoy!

Meet COPE Service Dogs’ TJ

TJ is a big, gangly, gentle giant! Part Lab and Golden Retriever, he brings a smile to every face that he meets as he maneuvers his large body into small places. His enthusiasm for people and other dogs is contagious. TJ was born to COPE’s McHappy a year ago and still gets uber-excited seeing his Mom and fellow littermates.

TJ was named by a generous sponsor in honour of her late husband Tom. He was a big-hearted man and an advocate for service dogs. Tom played a part in raising a dog currently working as a wheelchair helper. TJ carries his nickname.

TJ loves attending school and working with his student trainers. One of his favourite times of the week is lounging on a pillow with elementary school students during COPE’s ‘Reading Buddy’ program.

When he isn’t training, TJ can be found playing with his friend Flo, retrieving the biggest stick he can find on a walk or going to work with his Foster Mom at a law firm.

TJ enjoying a cuddle with an elementary student during COPE’s Reading Buddy program

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‘I suffer from social and separation anxiety but I never feel awkward or alone in COPE class – I can actually be myself. That’s why I love COPE. ‘

~Dina

Student Trainer of TJ in COPE’s ‘Canines in the Classroom’ program

Puppy TJ snapd loving the belly rubs and attention

Our handsome boy TJ

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Foster Mom, Erin, loves being part of TJ’s training

TJ snapd doing his ‘go under’ command. This will be helpful in the future when he is in a situation that he needs to be out of the way but close to his Life Partner

TJ
‘s Picks

Movie:
The Great Catsby

Book:
Tail of Two Cities

Activity:
Whining and dining

Your Weekly Smile

Q: What do dogs do after they finish obedience school?

A: They get their masters.

This Week’s Indoor Game to
Keep Your Dog Happy

Hidden Treasure

Dogs have a remarkable sense of smell. Did you know that they have approximately 45 times more scent receptors than humans? And what better way to exercise that sense of smell than by making a game that uses it? All you need to do is collect a few small boxes or containers and arrange them upside down. Place a prize like a favourite dog toy or treat underneath one of them and encourage your pup to start sniffing around. When your dog accurately identifies which container the treat is under, make sure to congratulate them and, of course, reward them with the hidden treasure.

For more info about COPE Service Dogs please visit www.copedogs.org