When Colleen joined Golden Dog Adventure Co. in November 2022, she began by watching from the sidelines. She followed event recaps on Facebook, seeing members and their dogs explore new places, build skills, and grow more confident together.
In July 2024, Colleen attended her first Golden Dog event. At first, she joined her friend Cindi and Cindi’s dog, Jethro, while Carli remained comfortably at home. Colleen took time to observe how events were structured, learn from others, and build her own confidence before deciding which experiences might also be a good fit for Carli.
As Colleen became more comfortable, she began bringing Carli to smaller, trainer-led events where they could learn and explore in supportive, carefully managed environments. Together, they participated in experiences including the Spring Nose Work Workshop at the Golden Dog Playground with Jake Belmont of Red Pointy Dog Training and Connected in Motion: Building Calm, Confidence & Communication in the Real World with Ashley Clark of You and Your Dog Training & Services.
Most recently, Colleen and Carli joined a Pop Up Adventure walk and swim at Riverside Park led by local adventure guide Diane Morgan. Because Carli loves the water, the outing gave her an opportunity to explore, cool off, and enjoy an activity that naturally helps her feel comfortable.
On a separate three-mile Riverwalk outing in Hooksett with Cindi and Jethro, Colleen and Carli experienced another meaningful moment. When they encountered dogs near the water, Colleen advocated for Carli and created distance because Carli can be reactive around unfamiliar dogs.
Later, an off-leash dog unexpectedly approached Carli before Colleen had time to pivot or move away. Instead of escalating, Carli remained curious and calm. She and the other dog exchanged an appropriate greeting before the handler called the dog away.
Colleen later reflected that because she did not have time to anticipate the interaction or become worried, that concern did not travel down the leash to Carli. It became an unplanned but meaningful win and another example of the progress they are making together.
No matter the situation, Colleen handles each challenge with grace and growing confidence. She always has a smile on her face, even when something unexpected happens. Her focus remains on helping Carli feel comfortable, safe, and supported.
Colleen continues to observe Carli closely in a variety of settings, paying attention to what helps her relax, what may be too much, and when she needs more space. Rather than expecting Carli to fit every environment, Colleen makes thoughtful decisions based on the dog in front of her.
To date, Colleen has participated in 13 online and in-person Golden Dog events. Some she attended without Carli because she recognized that the environment might not be comfortable for her. Others became opportunities for Colleen and Carli to learn, explore, and build confidence together.
It has been remarkable to watch Colleen’s confidence develop with guidance from Golden Dog’s professional training partners and adventure guides. As Colleen became more confident, Carli did too. That growing sense of calm and assurance traveled right down the leash, helping Carli feel safer and more welcome in unfamiliar environments.
Colleen’s friend Cindi has also been an important part of their journey. Cindi and Jethro, Golden Dog’s June Adventure Duo of the Month, have remained enthusiastic supporters, advocates, and cheerleaders as Colleen and Carli discover the adventures that work best for them.
Colleen and Carli’s journey is a reminder that adventure does not have to begin with a giant leap. Sometimes it starts by watching, learning, showing up without your dog, and slowly building the confidence needed to take the next step together.
It also shows that success does not always mean avoiding every challenge. Sometimes success is advocating for your dog, choosing the right environment, remaining calm when something unexpected happens, and continuing to observe and respond to your dog’s individual needs.
Congratulations to Colleen and Carli, our Adventure Duo of the Month!
