It has officially been one week since Maeve came home, and what a week it has been! This was our first time handling therapies on our own without Maeve’s trainer guiding us, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come already.
On Monday, we headed to GiGi’s Playhouse for Kay’s occupational therapy. While Kay was in her session, Maeve and I worked on a few scent games, practiced “leave it,” and focused on concentration skills. One of our favorite exercises was having Maeve lie on the floor while I bounced a ball around her, testing her ability to stay calm and focused. These skills are so important because even though Maeve learned them during training, we need to keep practicing to make sure she stays sharp and prepared to help her girl when needed.
Tuesday took us to Kay’s weekly physical and speech therapy sessions. This day was a little more relaxed for Maeve. We practiced resting calmly on our placemat in the lobby, waiting patiently while Kay finished her appointments. Between sessions, Maeve checked in on Kay whenever she came out, making sure her girl was doing okay. It sounds simple, but for an energetic eight-month-old puppy, staying settled for long stretches can be a real challenge.
We wrapped up the week’s therapies on Wednesday, returning to GiGi’s Playhouse for another occupational therapy session. I continue to be impressed with Maeve. She may only be eight months old and still very much a puppy at home, but out in public, she shines. She settles quickly, listens well, and if she feels the need to investigate something, I let her check it out before guiding her back to her spot. She does wonderfully. GiGi’s is usually quiet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, which gives us a great chance to practice skills, but when visitors do come in, it’s an even better opportunity for Maeve and me to work through distractions together.
My favorite part of this journey has been watching the bond between Kay and Maeve grow stronger each day. Maeve lights up when we pick Kay up from school and always makes sure to check on her girl, ready to help however she can. I know this connection will only deepen with time, and I cannot wait to watch their friendship and partnership flourish in the years ahead.