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Kerry Nichols's avatar

Thank you Beth! I am very grateful to be able to look back now over nearly 15 years of puppies and see that by doing this small thing, it's having a big impact. I'm constantly reminded of the stone in the pond and I see the ripple effects from all of these puppies out in the world (and of course their amazing humans who have dedicated the time and effort to serve with them). It's all rather extraordinary!

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Kerry Nichols's avatar

I am increasingly reflecting on what is good in the world. We do seem to have developed a propensity to talk about and focus on what is bad. I love that you brought this up and even in marveling at the construction of a skyscraper, we can appreciate the ingenuity of the human mind. To some degree, we need to practice positive reinforcement with our species, including in the way we talk about each other and our world. So so much good. And so many good people.

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Beth Delforge's avatar

I really needed to hear this reminder again. Our world has been so challenging lately, it is easy to focus on that. And we should but not give it power without noticing deep appreciation of the love, care, and ingenuity people exhibit all around us. The reminder is the noticing of those skyscrapers and attentive therapy dogs and the people who helped influence it all. So much positive to notice out in the world. Thank you.

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Deb Schieve's avatar

I want to thank you for your book. We will be getting a puppy this summer, after the loss of your sweet Mocha last June. It has been a long year of sadness and missing her. Your book has been so helpful to get ready for this new puppy and hopefully will make her transition to her new home easier for all of us.

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Kerry Nichols's avatar

That's fantastic Deb, and I am delighted to hear that you are ready to open your heart again to another dog. Life just isn't the same without the patter of paws!

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Beth Delforge's avatar

LOVE this picture. So glad this little person had Chloe for snuggles. This photo and Sunny’s pic on the floor with those young children are my favorites. Also love the quote about not becoming all things great but doing small things with love. I’m riffing off the quote… but that is so you and you defy it because your greatness is just now growing in the world. We all have followed you because we see your love and humility wrap up around your passions and dedication. Greatness is a by product. We are so happy for you!

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kathy hobman's avatar

Perfect! Totally agree with all you say!!! Well stated -- 👍

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Beth Delforge's avatar

Thanks Kathy!

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Cindy Dore's avatar

That picture of Chloe and that child. Beautiful. Fills my heart!❤️

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Corie Dixon's avatar

As was once said by a remarkable person, "when we know better, we do better" says it all. I think we as humans jump on the wagon too fast too soon. I know I am guilty of that. "The dog whisperer" was one of those times. Being the pack leader. IT all made sense...at the time. I know better now and I am doing better. I am NOT part of thier "pack" but am allowed to engage with their pack. As I watch my newest litter and see how they engage with not only each other but with us humans amazes me each and everytime. To watch how their momma is teaching them and how they are teaching one another. I feel so privelaged to be a part of that. Thank you for teaching us Kerry about our pack and how we are relating to theirs.

Love the pictures that you posted of all "your" SD babies. THey would not have been have thr dogs they are without the start that you gave them. It shows in each and every one of your litters. Well done!

As far as Amazon goes...well...I love Amazon and shopping there. Having said that, I do not agree with their leader of the pack mentality. We will all win "them" over one dog at a time!

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Laura B's avatar

I feel the same! We do better as we learn. I was such a devotee of the Monks of New Skete with my first dog back in 2006, and they got a lot right, but I try to keep my mind open and learn more and more as I go.

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Kerry Nichols's avatar

Oh yes - I read their books too!

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Norma Marr's avatar

The picture of this sweet child and Chloe brings so many feelings to my heart. Such sweetness.

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Jean Sullivan's avatar

Thank you Kerry for sharing your love of life long learning with us. I also want you to know that the pics you shared of your puppies that are now therapy dogs, especially the one of Chloe, struck a special place in my heart. I had the privilege of sharing my home and my work with a therapy dog. We worked together at a Pediatric Rehab facility in a hospital and outpatient clinic. He was a Golden who touched the heart and souls of so many children and their families during his 8 years of service. Looking into his eyes, touching his soft hair, walking with him, dressing him up, talking to him etc. The encounters were magic and greatly enhanced what I and the other therapists could do.

Thank you for giving your puppies the start in the world that can help them be therapy dogs…

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Kerry Nichols's avatar

Oh my word. The wonders you must have seen with your guy - thank you for sharing this!

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kathy hobman's avatar

Aww that photo -- ohh my! It speaks volumes💕 The pure essence of love comfort & healing is all there. Its iconic - this is the power of therapy dogs. I have seen it .... Your insight your passion & your work is making huge impacts from the stable loving secure dogs you are so lovingly breeding ... Oh I hope more breeders follow your lead❤️ I shudder at that concept of - what is it - total dominance of your dog OMG - banish this horrific approach. Wisely it is as you so state - ripple affect of good - do have wonderful affect. A pebble thrown into the pond -- yes! You are seeing the effect you have made - congratulations. Wisdom & heart make huge differences. Small acts of kindness have huge impact- I have seen this repeatedly ...

( And the Empire State building video 🙌 - so great to see ! Once again - there is a lot of goodness in our worlds & we all need to be reminded at times to see them as at times the noise of other-ness obstructs our view🥴) Learning is a life long voyage & should be enjoyed - thanks for always sharing & acknowledging - You make a difference to all you touch🐾❤️

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