Changing My Life: My Partnership with Galaxy

In this lovely golden dog was poured all the hearts and souls of a breeder/caretaker, puppy raisers, kennel staff, veterinarians, trainers, and so many others who shaped her into the perfect partner for me. For eight years she has made my life so much richer….I am awed by her intelligence, strong work ethic and drive for excellence.

I am filled with a sense of wonder by her sweetness and loyalty.

I am humbled by her trust in me, doing things she is fearful of because I ask her to.

I am comforted by the feeling of safety and security I have whenever she is with me.

Her skill in communicating is incredible.  I learn so much from the tilt of her head and ears, her posture, her gaze, her tail, her breathing, her movement.  I am always informed.  I feel much less of a stranger in a world that I cannot always hear or understand.

In noisy places, I am unable to judge the loudness of my voice and this makes me reluctant to give commands.  I might shout “sit!” with authority during a tour of the Smithsonian and have the entire group whip around– confused, ticked off, or searching for a security guard.

I taught Galaxy several signs and gestures, which she grasped with just two hours of practice.  Now she can amaze and impress people who think she is doing all these cool things without being told.  Often this leads them to think more highly of me for having such a great dog.

Galaxy is the only dog I have every known who can switch in an instant from a wild play to  a dog who is calm, gentle and all business.  Work and play are the same to her and she always lifts my spirits with the joyful way she embraces them.

We are two beings, but one soul.

Galaxy always inspires me to want to be a better person, one who is worthy of her and all the people – staff, volunteers, and donors — whose generosity brought us together.  THANK YOU.

Cheryl gives a speech at CCI’s 35th Birthday celebration, with Corey Hudson, CEO of CCI