Getting a Service Dog with Anjali & Kolton
Service dogs can do more than just guide you. Anjali discusses all the ways they could help you in your day to day life.
I have known Anjali for years now, and every time I see her or read one of her social media posts, I am always amazed by her energy and perseverance. Whether it’s flying all over the country or attending numerous conferences, it seems Anjali does more in a week than most people do in a month. Nothing can slow her down: not working long hours, not a crazy travel schedule and not being in a wheelchair.
I remember when Anjali talked about getting a service dog to help her with her daily chores. I knew that pup would be helpful guiding Anjali through airports, restaurants and other places. But little did I know that that would be just the beginning of what a service dog could do for her and countless others.
I was so excited when Anjali agreed to talk to me about her experience with her service dog Kolton. I know how helpful Kolton has been for her and how much she appreciates everything he does, from grabbing the remote control to carrying her bags.
Kolton helps Anjali carry her bag. Photo credit: Sandy Siegel
Anjali thought it might be time to get some help after dealing with health issues and surgeries. Daily tasks became harder, and since she lived alone, Anjali thought of the ways a service dog could help make her life a little bit easier. After some thought and research, Anjali contacted Canine Companions for Independence and went through their process of filing an online application, doing a phone interview and traveling to their training site. Once she was on their list, she waited for an invitation to team training. It was a long but very thorough process, and Kolton finally became a part of Anjali’s family in May 2016.
Anjali gets a kiss from Kolton at Canine Companions for Independence. Photo credit: Canine Companions for Independence
Even though I have know Kolton for years, I am still amazed by everything he can do for Anjali, from opening the refrigerator door to picking up boxes off the floor.
Kolton helps Anjali throw out some boxes. Photo credit: Anjali Forber-Pratt
Kolton can even help with the laundry, by taking wet clothes out of the washer and placing them in the dryer!
Kolton helps out with the laundry. Photo credit: Anjali Forber-Pratt
Not only is Kolton well trained and super smart, he is also very sweet and playful when he’s not working. Just throw him a ball and Kolton will become your best friend for life.
Kolton enjoying some playtime. Photo credit: Anjali Forber-Pratt
I am so grateful to Kolton for all of the help he’s given Anjali over the years. Thank you Kolton for all you do, and thank you Anjali for sharing your story. You both make me so proud to be your friend.
You can watch my interview with Anjali and see more of Kolton in action here.
Anjali & Kolton enjoying a beautiful day
