MEET NORA –
SERVICE DOG FOR ZOE By Zoe Fritz
What do you enjoy most about having a Service Dog?
What I enjoy most about having Nora in my life, is that she helps me whenever she can and she just makes life so much better. I never knew a dog could have so much personality until I met Nora. She is so kind to everyone and every creature or animal she encounters. What is your Service Dog’s name?
Nora Jean is her name and we are not quite sure how she got it but we do know that she is very special. Nora is a full blooded black Labrador Retriever. Do they have any special talents or quirks? What have been the benefits of having a service dog?
Nora is an autism service dog, so she helps when I am anxious. For example, when I fidget with my hands, she will nudge me with her nose. The greatest benefit of having Nora is having someone to go through life with step by step. She is always there for me and always there to cuddle with. How did they come to join your family? Tell us how you got the service dog and how the process went? How has having a service dog helped you?
I was on a waiting list for around four years for a service dog, and when I got picked for Nora, I literally cried happy tears. Nora is an ICAN Service Dog. When I met Nora, I knew we were going to have a great connection. Having Nora has helped me more than words can explain. Taking Nora with me makes me feel more confident to take on new adventures and to go to new places. Without Nora, I never would do anything outside of what I do on a regular basis. She makes me feel confident that it’s ok to be myself. She’s motivated me and helped me throughout high school and I even took her to my high school graduation. When I was too nervous to do something on my own, I could always do it with Nora.
Photo credit: Liz Kaye Photography
Send the LOVE with PUPPY LOVE for Valentine’s Day! Puppy Love Valentines is a unique fundraiser that supports ICAN’s mission. Our dogs-in-training deliver Valentine gift boxes to people at work and home throughout the Greater Indianapolis Area! Our deliveries fill up quickly, so don’t delay in ordering! In addition to gift boxes, we are also offering special romantic Valentine packages! To learn more, visit icandog.org, call 317-672-3860, or email brynnee@icandog.org.
Any funny stories to share?
We were in English class and Nora knows a funny trick called “blah, blah, blah” where she will open her mouth slightly three times to make it seem like she’s saying it, and she did that while the teacher was talking to us. Nora is super spoiled. She has a collar for every holiday.
Deadline to order is February 8th!
5100 Charles Court | Suite 100 Zionsville, IN 46077
www.icandog.org February 2021 • Special Needs Living
11
