Congratulations Sugar!

Crazy lady here- I'm breaking protocol and writing this post. I wanted to say a special "congratulations!" to Sugar Sweet for winning Reader's Choice for Best Working (Bitch) Dog. Woo hoo! Thank you Mango Minster Readers! I do not know how I could have survived the past six months without Sugar's flawless transition from a shy rescue dog to a strong and powerful service dog. Seriously. I am the world's worse dog trainer. I tend to take a "whatever" attitude and Abby (may she rest in peace) walked all over me and my household.Sugar arrived in January 2008 as a shy and timid dog. Here's the adoption video of her first day in the United States:

(You can read more about her early life here.)

Within a year, Sugar grew and gained confidence. I quickly discovered that it only took 1 or 2 tries before she learned a new command. Sugar was always scary-smart, and I suspect she had prior training before she was dumped in the Taiwan streets. When the latest changes happened in my life, Sugar quickly learned the special skills needed to support my illness. I was shocked that she could recognize my seizures-- and, even more surprised that she could be trained to find help, if I fell or had a seizure (thanks, Wild Dingo!). She overcame her shyness to visit doctor's appointments with me, and to help carry my medications. Later, she quickly learned how to act as a "walking cane," in case I lost balance and needed support. I mean, she's 35 lbs, and I am a fat girl. How friggin amazing is that? I am also amazed that she has the strength and perseverance to pick up new skills and just "roll with it," when some fresh challenge hits my world. Every day I say a "thank you" to the cosmic universe that Sugar and I found each other.Finally, I want to take a moment to give a "shout out" to Dixie and her Mom. Dixie's mom has been struggling with her own illness, and Dixie has met the challenge of becoming a service and medic alert dog the past year. It's a wonderful story (read it here). Dixie and her Mom have found each other, and they continue to support one another through the ups-and-downs of life. Although Dixie did not win the Mango Minster Working Dog award this year, I believe she deserves some special recognition for the amazing work she does, in support of her Mom. Kudos Dixie! Sugar and I believe you are a winning team!Next? Cracker time! Loki is a candidate, and Sugar has a mad crush on his studly muffins. Stay tuned for more Loki tales tomorrow-- but, if you want a head start, feel free to cast your vote for this insane dude here.Thanks!
Crazy lady
p.s. Sugar will return tomorrow. She's busy hunting Bambi, right now...