Highway's Tale & Life With Leonbergers

This is his story of becoming a therapy dog. Highway Volker von Risden Haus, was born on September 5th, 2013 on the Bluegrass Parkway, a 71.13 mile highway in Kentucky. He was the 9th puppy born from his mother Xita von Der Mohnwiese (from the Czech Republic) and his father (Jaro Ja-He). He was born just outside of Harrodsburg, KY. The reason this beautiful, big, long-coat boy was actually born on the road was that he got 'stuck' being born and died
:( But thanks to the quick action of his breeder, Nick Risden, and his amazing nurse, Karen Aubrey, they were rushing Xita to the veterinarian! Karen saved Highway's life, and his mother's life, and she revived Highway. But in the process of being born, the umbilical cord was wrapped around Highway's tail and his long German Shepherd tail was cut off, so he now has a short, stubby, fluffy tail that bobs, more than it wags! And bob it does, because Highway is a happy, healthy, big German Shepherd Dog! And he was one of two puppies in the litter of 9 born with a long-coat. Highway came to live as a foster puppy with Robin and Danny, along with his mother Xita from the time he was 2 months old. He was going to go to another family when he got older, but Robin fell in love with him and couldn't possibly part with the boy! And so he became a part of the Fleischer pack. Xita eventually went back to live with her owner, Nick Risden. It was intended for Highway to be trained in Schutzhund, like Elvis von Risden Haus. However, Highway quickly did not show the personality and drive for this competitive dog sport. He was showing a more playful, 'surfer dude' attitude towards life! :) And Highway is delightful in every way! His middle name, Volker, means 'People's guard' in german. Highway is lovable and also a great protector. He enjoys going places and being with people, and likes to be engaged in activities. Highway likes to please and is easily motivated. For these and many reasons, we knew he could be an ideal therapy dog. Highway's photos, videos, and antics have entertained and delighted folks on FB for two years! And so we thought, how much more Highway could offer comfort, joy and create the kind kind of magic that enriches lives through training as a therapy dog. And so we are documenting his journey to become a Certified Therapy Dog! What a therapy dog work involves and how to train for it...
*We will show Highway's training from beginning to achieving certification
* We will show the various settings where Highway does his therapy work
* And we will share the stories of how Highway's big Heart-FULL of love gives to people in need