In July of 2003 we received an email about a dog in need of a home. We had been thinking about getting a second dog and decided that adoption was a great idea. We made a call to BideAwhile animal shelter and arranged a meeting with Scamp, a 9- month old Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix. He was timid, frightened and had no doggy manners. He barked at everyone and everything, cringed at any attempts we made to touch him, and continuously had uncertainty and fear in his eyes. We saw something behind all his fear and doubt that told us he was a sad puppy who only needed love, attention, patience, commitment and something to do. Scamp came home with us the very next day.

With the help and support of the wonderful staff at Lietash Canine Academy, the dog formerly known as Scamp is now Stryder. He is a wonderful young dog whose confidence continues to grow on a daily basis. He has successfully passed levels 1 though 4 and has moved on to novice competitive obedience classes and enjoys beginners agility every Saturday. He is devoted, willing to please and very affectionate. It is because of Lietash's patient, knowledgeable and supportive staff that Stryder and we have learned so much in such a short time. Stryder now understands how much fun it can be to learn new things. He is a fabulous family companion and most importantly he has learned to trust. Stryder has been with us for 5 months and we cannot imagine our lives without him.

Marie, Amy and Danielle