Entering the schools

LEXI and I have made our first appearance at Mountain View Elementary School, shadowing Terry, accompanied by Elaine and WILLSON. My knees were definitely a'shakin before going in! LEXI did fabulous at the library event, but having to actually walk through crowded school hallways, and act smooth in my response to crowds around my pup, was all new to us. But, yet again, LEXI has surpassed my expectations and did wonderfully. She actually sat and let people pet her without jumping up (most of the time), and responded very well to my commands to modify her behavior.
One very cool thing I'm noticing, is that starting all this training at such a young age has really created a strong bond between LEXI and I. She seems to turn to me for direction and comfort when in these new situations. Eventually I want her to feel this comfortable around any adult giving her commands, but for now she seems to be very keyed into the fact that we are on this journey together (or maybe that's just how I want to feel about it!?!?)
I have 2 more shadowing opportunities in May at 2 others schools and am very excited about that. The more we experience this the more comfortable I will become. The more confident I become, the more LEXI will trust me.
LEXI's 'in training' vest, and my 'paws4people' embroidered clothes are on their way!

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