Hi! My name is Cinder. Born and raised in Orange County, California, I was abandoned with my siblings as a young pup. Fortunately a wonderful rescue group, Pro Pet Life, found me and I was immediately placed in a warm foster home. Pet Pro Life took me and their other available dogs to an adoption clinic at PETsMART every weekend in hopes of finding homes for as many of us as possible.

My Mom, Ashley, had raised and trained guide dog puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind for eight years and was interested in adopting her own dog to do therapy work. The day I came into my Mom’s life she wasn’t even looking for a dog, but when she walked into PETsMART, she fell in love with me, a cute, fat bundle of fur, if I say so myself.

Many people believe that my new Mom and I were meant to find one another because “Cinder?means “ash?and my Mom’s name is Ashley.

My Mom quickly trained me in the necessary basic obedience skills, as well as socializing me with both dogs and people. Since my Mom was an elementary school teacher, it was only natural that I would come to love being with children most of all.

Apparently I was destined to spend my life helping others. When I was two and a half years old I became a therapy dog with the OCSPCA (Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Once a month we visit a retirement home in Huntington Beach and a Children’s Home in the city of Orange.

CHOC (Children’s Hospital of Orange County) was the place we had wanted to visit more than anywhere else. For us to become a therapy team at CHOC, I had to become certified with Therapy Dogs International, Inc. After passing the fourteen required tests and doing a couple of probationary visits at the hospital, we became a CHOC pet therapy team.

Twice a week we go to CHOC and visit all of the amazing children. Hopping up on the beds and lying down for a tummy rub are some of my favorite parts of our visits. Also I love to show off my tricks to anyone who’ll watch, and I always stop to say “hi?to the wonderful CHOC staff (they usually have some yummy treats for me!!).

No words can describe the unbelievable experience of being a pet therapy team. Both my Mom and I know we’re there to help brighten other peoples?day. It’s truly an honor and privilege for us and we’re touched by each and every person we meet.

My Mom has taken many pictures of me. She selected the four seen here to send with this email message. I hope I don't sound too conceited by telling you that many people have told me that I'm a beautiful dog (and I believe them).

Your friend,
Cinder