I headed back out to Assistance Dogs of America Inc. in Swanton on Tuesday to get a few photos of some of the therapy dogs going through training with their new owners.

ADAI therapy dogs, although they are not service dogs, are highly trained and offer comfort and companionship to children in schools, persons in nursing homes and individuals with developmental disabilities, autism and Down’s Syndrome.

I recognized Brewster, Dwight, and Aaron from my trip out to ADAI before and was happy to see them responding so well to commands given by their new owners.

Here are some photos from the day…

This is Aaron, he was in training for the week with his new "parents" who are so excited to have him join their family. Here he is doing his ‘stay’ command, no problem for him; he’s one very laid back dog!

Aaron waiting patiently for his turn.

Aaron’s new owners; he will be a big help to their family:)

Next up is Brewster, that beautiful White-Golden Retriever.

His new "Mom" teaches kids who have Autism, she knows they will just adore him and so does she:)

I had Brewster pose for me next to a new motorized wheel chair that was donated to ADAI.

Next is Dwight, he kinda reminds me of a Muppet, he’s just too cute!

Dwight is going to live with a school Principal and he will go with her every day to be a school therapy dog.

I bet the students are SO excited to meet him!

The trainer used Yogi to demonstrate the commands that the new owners need to know; here he is anxiously awaiting her next move…

On my way out, I spotted that sweet little Wixey, I couldn’t resist those big brown eyes so I had to throw a ball for her for a little while.

I’ll keep you posted on my future trips to ADAI, I know I’m looking forward to going again:)

Check out Wellspring Photography and ADAI on Facebook!

-Tabitha