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Longmeadow adding new canine citizen

By Rick Sobey

Staff Intern



LONGMEADOW During the next few months in the town of Longmeadow, you might notice a new tail wagging every now and then. And for all of the individuals out there who are scared of dogs, you do not have to be afraid of this one.

The dog's name is Glen, and he will be a new canine citizen in Longmeadow on April 18. As a canine citizen, Glen will be getting trained by Denise Spina to become a service dog for Canine Companions for Independence.

Glen, who is a cross between a labrador and a golden retriever, is only eight months old. During the next 18 months, he will learn to fetch, carry items and open doors for others.

The dog will accompany Spina to work every day at the Southwick Animal Hospital, where he will have plenty of "aunts" who will help with his service training.

According to Spina, Glen will be improving the local community during his time here.

"Glen will be seen around Longmeadow, and he will be seen frequently in stores and parks," Spina said. "He will be learning how to help handicapped individuals."

On April 18, Spina is going to pick Glen up from Farmingdale, NY, and she will begin training him at this time. Then, when the 18 months of training come to an end, Spina will be forced to give him back.

"After I raise him and train him, he will return to Canine Companions on Long Island, NY," Spina said. "And he will officially become a service dog and help a handicapped person."

Canine Companions for Independence is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.

Canine Companions for Independence is funded by private contributions, gifts from businesses, civic groups and service clubs, grants from corporations and foundations, and ongoing fundraising activities such as special events and mailings.

There is no charge for a Canine Companions for Independence assistance dog. Individual participants in the program are not responsible for any of the substantial costs involved in the lengthy process of breeding, raising, and training each Canine Companion.