06/23/2025
A very special congratulations to a very special dog! As her "mom", Suzanne Himmelberg, tells us:
I wanted to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for Jan and the impact she has had on both MIA and me. MIA, who will be 16 years old this September, joined our family as a rescued, mixed breed puppy at 8 weeks old. Over the years, she has brought so much joy and love into our lives. A few years ago, following a neurological injury likely caused by discovered Intravertebral Disc Disease, MIA had to retire from her favorite activities -- playing frisbee, running free, and climbing stairs. That's when I began searching for a therapeutic activity to keep her mentally stimulated and physically engaged in a safe way.
Thanks to a dear friend, Diane Lagasse, we discovered My K9 Buddy and Nose Work. Nose Work has been a game changer for MIA. It provides the perfect balance of challenge and enrichment, and Jan has been an exceptional guide throughout our journey. Her teaching style, professionalism, and above all her patience and kindness have been invaluable. Jan has made learning accessible, enjoyable, and empowering for both MIA and me.
Though I hadn't initially considered participating in trials, our family encouraged us to try at least one, to honor MIA's journey and accomplishments. We decided on the Mason-Dixon German Shorthaired Pointer Club trial this past weekend and entered just three Novice Container events. I'm happy to share that MIA earned her Novice Container Title! She also took 2nd and 4th place in two of her events and placed 5th in the third. Not bad for a senior girl -- who seems to have been the oldest dog (as well as least trial-experienced) at the trial!
We, at My K9 Buddy, are very proud of both Mia and Suzanne for believing that old dogs can still have fun!!
