The First Year with Cooper

Chapel Hill, NC

by Dave Oberhart

July 1999

It seems like yesterday when I first met you. I remember sitting in my room, waiting for the trainer to bring you to me, and hearing the two of you come down the hall to my room. When you came in, I called you and you came to me, hesitating a little, since I was a new person to you. As we learned about each other those first couple of weeks, I knew that I liked you, and that you became responsible for me as your training required. You looked at me, watched out for me, and made sure I didn't get into any trouble. We worked well together, and I couldn't believe that I had gone so long without a dog.

On graduation day, I was very emotional, fighting off tears of happiness, and some of fear. Happiness because we had made it together, and that our trainer was trusting me with one of his best, and fear for what we might encounter away from the relative safety of Leader Dog School. Going home would be another adventure for both of us, as well as for my family. You were my friend, but I wanted everyone to like you too.

Arriving home was pretty adventurous. The cat was not happy, but thankfully she got over her "genetic aversions" and became tolerant at first, and finally your friend. All the humans at home liked you right off, and that made me very happy.

One thing was certain. You were "your own dog." You had your ideas and attitudes, and kept your own counsel about how you felt. It was difficult for me to tell that you actually "liked" me. Yes, you lead me wonderfully, but it was hard to see that you actually cared for me. I wasn't worried, but was hoping for some kind of sign, but it was still early. We had only been together a few months, you were still pretty young, and I figured that you'd show me in your way, in your own time.

Now the first year is over, and I understand why they say at school that you're in "training" for that year. I've watched you grow into a wonderful friend. You've matured, and have shown me how much you care about me. I know you worry when I don't feel good, and that you miss me when I leave you home on those rare occasions. . I've learned to look for how you show me your feelings, and it always makes me smile. I'm honored to be your friend, and that you'll have me as yours.

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