#HoomanTweet THREAD - Retirement

Time to answer some of your questions.

There are 2 reasons why a Service Dog retires.

1. If they are too old or become sick & can no longer work.

2. If the handler’s health deteriorates whereby they can no longer care for the dog.

To be able to work with a service dog you need to care for it in return. Think about feeding, grooming walking and playing. If you can’t provide these things, the dog will become attached to the person who does provide them. This has a big impact on their work.

Some of you know I’m in the middle of a rehabilitation treatment. This is because my health has drastically deteriorated. Don’t worry, no terminal illness. However I no longer have, and won’t be able to regain the ability to care for Don like I could before.

I love Don with all my heart and soul and I know it would be unfair to him, as well as irresponsible, to keep him here when I can’t give him what he needs. So I decided together with our trainer to let hem enjoy a well earned retirement.

He’s now with a family with children who run with him together in the park. He can also go to the beach and swim. He gets couch cuddles and doesn’t have to sleep alone. He’s going to have a wonderful retirement full of adventures.

It was an almost impossible decision for me to make but I know it’s the decision that gives him everything he needs and deserves. I also know you guys will miss him as much as I will and although that’s sad, it’s comforting because we’re not alone.

I don’t yet know if I’m allowed to get updates or if the family want to take over this Twitter account. I do know that this account isn’t going anywhere. I have hundreds of pics of Don I want to share with you and I can still teach you about service dogs.

You guys are amazing, sweet & supportive & I don’t just want to disappear & leave you. So I hope it’s ok if I stick around to entertain you, teach you & most importantly, share some Don love with you. Is that alright? Can we do that together? Love you guys. #MustLoveDon