Critter Tales —

Puppy proves she’s ready and willing to help

SWEET—‘Graci’ made a boy in a wheelchair feel much better. Craige Story of Westlake Village told us about Graci, her Australian Labradoodle. Graci has been in training this year to take her therapy dog certification. In preparation for the test, Story takes Graci with her almost everywhere.

One day in a department story, they approached a mother with her son, who was in a wheelchair. His head and hands were secured. Story asked if Graci could say “hi” to the boy as part of her training. The mother said that would be fine.

Graci went over to the boy on her own and licked each of his hands, then laid her head on the boy’s lap and looked up at him.

Story said, “I was so proud of my puppy . . . she is truly the best dog in the universe and my best friend, after my husband, Dana.”