Flash is a service dog...more specifically called a mobility assistance dog.  He helps me with my balance when I walk.  He also helps me to get out of bed, out of a chair, and off the floor or ground.  The balance when walking is the biggest thing that has helped me to be independent and maintain my muscle strength.  I also use Flash to brace when I need to bend over to pick up things, because Flash is such a good height.

Flash came to live with me on June 15, 2001, at the age of two. He has done so well at adjusting to strange new things, especially most noises. Two noises he doesn't like are thunder and firecrackers.

Flash loves to be hugged, the more hugs the better. He also loves to have his ears rubbed, but hates to have them cleaned.  Teethbrushing is such fun, with Flash trying to eat the toothpaste.  He loves going to his vet, he can't wait to get in there and check out the place.  At the vets, he licks anyone tending to his nails and vaccinations and wags the end of his tail, because....there's a treat at the end.  He also loves the garbage truck hoping the garbage collector will have a treat waiting for him. 

As a service dog, Flash goes with me on my errands, to the store, the library, the school, restarunts, and attends church with me regularly.  Flash and I have been active in doing service dog education to children through the library "early out" program here, and in a neighboring town.  Flash is a regular visitor to the St. Mary's School, visiting the children to tell them about his work as a service dog.  Children asks lots of questions and so far we've been able to answer them all.  This is the 3rd year we are going up to the school to visit.  The school calls Flash their unofficial mascot.

Life as a service dog is not all work.  Flash gets lots of walking excercise with me, and occasional periods to run and fetch his toy.  He has a couple of toys just for outdoor play.  When we go outside, he is anxious to carry one of them.  As soon as we get back to the door, he places it on the floor, and doesn't touch it indoors.  He is also sensitive to my moods and emotions, and likes to stick close to me.

Flash loves play with his sunshine golden friends.  Running in a big backyard is such fun!

Flash has become a part of this town.  Everyone knows Flash, and comments on how beautiful and well behaved he is.  When they do not see Flash with me, people ask where he is.  People think I brush him daily or give him a bath every week.  In fact, he gets one good brushing per week, and one bath every couple of months, unless he needs one sooner.

I am so grateful to the owners of Sunshine Goldens for all they have done to make Flash available to me. 

Now that I have introduced Flash to you, why not find out more about him by visiting Flash's World -- A Service Dog's Story.

Wanda