Stahlers take joy raising Canine Companions
|
ABOVE: Sara and Ben Stahler pose with Rio, their current Canine Companion for Independence puppy in training. HOME PAGE SLIDE SHOW PHOTO: Rio, a canine companion in training, stares at a postcard featuring a Labarador retriever during a trip to a retail store. Socialization exercises such as trips to stores, businesses, parks, schools and offices are important parts of training service dogs, according to Rio’s puppy parent, Ben Stahler. (PHOTOS | SUBMITTED) |
Ben and Sara Stahler have been playing the part of puppy parents for the past six years and they most likely will continue for years to come.
“I tell people you have to be willing to give them up,” Mr. Stahler said of the Labrador pups the couple receives from Canine Companions for Independence. “You have to remember it’s never your dog.
“One day they will leave for advanced training with professionals and then be placed with someone with a disability.
“For me the tears really flow when I see someone with cerebral palsy or missing a leg gain mobility when they get their dog. It gives them such independence.
“It make me want to do this until I’m dead.”
Both Stahlers are retired and active but they have the time and patience to work with the dogs.
Mr. Stahler is Bellefontaine’s mayor and continues to work part-time as a pharmacist. Mrs. Stahler volunteers with Discovery Riders and the Columbus Zoo along with serving as the gifted and talented teacher for Upper Scioto Valley schools. She also spends one day a week with grandchildren.
Raising the dogs from eight weeks to 18 months is somewhat akin to raising children, Mr. Stahler said.
“At some point, you want to have children reach the point they are able and want to leave your home,” he said.
Mrs. Stahler particularly likes the puppies, while Mr. Stahler said he most enjoys the dogs as they learn their commands and reach their first birthday.
Rio, a female, is their current dog. She is the fifth in six years.
Mrs. Stahler proposed the idea and researched the non-profit Canine Companions.
“The whole concept of CCI combines two important interests,” she said, “helping others and dogs.
Read complete story in Saturday’s Examiner.
CLICK HERE to subscribe today!
WEB EDITION STARTING AT $9.50 FOR 5 WEEKS!