January 2026 – Future Leader Dog Roo Update

Future Leader Dog Roo continues to stay busy with new experiences and adventures this month. She is growing more confident and adaptable with every outing.

Roo accompanied me to a doctor’s office visit, where she showed excellent manners by lying quietly on the floor throughout the appointment. The nurse, who looks forward to seeing all the puppies I’ve raised over the years was especially happy to see Roo and commented on how well behaved she was.

Roo also joined me when I installed members and officers for the Red Raiders Leo Club, sponsored by the Huntley Area Lions Club. She was truly the hit of the day at Huntley High School, happily greeting students and adults alike. Another Lions outing included attending the Island Lake Lions meat raffle, where Roo met many friendly people before deciding she’d had enough excitement and settling down under the table for a well-earned nap.

Winter made a big impression on Roo as well. We received about 15 inches of snow, and Roo decided it was the best thing ever. She loved running around with her nose buried in the snow, flipping it everywhere as she explored. Even during all that excitement, we worked on her recall skills, and she did a great job coming back to me each time to earn her treat reward.

At home, Roo is still very eager to befriend our cat, Ash. Unfortunately, Ash wants no part of it and continues to deliver rapid-fire smacks to Roo’s nose whenever she gets too close. Roo has decided that if Ash doesn’t want to be friends, she’ll simply take over Ash’s cat bed instead.

Thank you for your continued support of Roo’s journey. She is learning to balance fun, focus and calm behavior in a wide variety of situations — all important steps in becoming a Leader Dog.

Written by Lion and PDG Jeff, Future Leader Dog Roo’s Raiser