Please welcome Opal to the Canine Connection family!  On November 11 Opal came to live in Iowa from Paws with a Cause in Wayland, Michigan.  She spent the first 14 months of her life in the care of a puppy raiser for the organization, and then returned to Michigan where she was born for service dog training.  It turned out that service dog training wasn't Opal's "cup of tea" and she was "career changed" to the life of a pet and demonstration dog.  After a few weeks to adjust to her new home, Opal is now back in training to be a demonstration dog.  She is very enthusiastic and is learning very quickly!  Opal is also learning canine musical freestyle!   Click here to see Opal's first off leash run on her first day in Iowa!

Gave an informal talk to a group of teens on Wednesday about dog training as a career - Ginger went along as a therapy dog and Opal, as a demo service dog in training.

In a just published article, "This Christmas, Give the Gift of Love: Adopt a Shelter Dog" Cindy Ludwig discusses the number and availability of wonderful dogs available for adoption in animal shelters across the country and how careful selection and planning can not only save a dog from almost certain death, but teach children about compassion and responsibility.

Cindy Ludwig has written for publication for nearly 40 years.  She is now a contributing writer on Suite 101 - see the article just published, "Dog Training in Iowa Requires Kennel License"  

Cindy Ludwig, contributor to the book, "Top Tips from Top Trainers" was quoted on the Nylabone website this month.