Alpha’s Nordicus, CD
February 8, 1993 to July 6,2006

Nordic was born into Fidos to be a Therapy Dog. He started coming to Fidos at about 12 weeks of age as a little grey flannel dog. He passed his Therapy Dog tests and was visiting full time at 6 months of age – and did not stop until a few weeks before his passing.

In his earlier years he did some conformation showing – but really didn’t like that as much as doing Obedience Competition. He eventually earned his CD (Companion Dog) title and competed at the Open level – but he enjoyed himself being inventive a bit too much to earn the Open title. He dabbled in Agility and had a good time at that as well – particularly through the tunnels and the A frame and any of the jumps. He loved to jump.

His jobs at Fidos were many and he loved them all. As long as he could go – he didn’t care - He visited at Taylor Manor Hospital (now Sheppard Pratt) for 13 years – and at Holy Cross Hospital for 11 years and subbed here and there when needed. He would work with any of the volunteers so if someone wanted to go and needed a dog to handle – he was game. Demos and info booths – He was game for those wherever they were- Times Square – no problem. The federal Correctional Institute in Cumberland to work with Inmates and puppies in training – a great day trip.

He started working with clients in training at Fidos and became the first dog that many clients worked over the years. He continued that work until May 2006. He could work with folks with walkers, canes, power chairs, scooters, or with various hearing disabilities, and he was rough on them all until they learned how to motivate him – mainly a well timed treat. He was the friendly dog in a crowd for many years in the Fidos annual CGC/TDI testing.

In the various Therapy Dog awards – he was voted Most Athletic the first year (he did love to jump) and then class clown each year after that for his antics. He also loved to have fun and make people laugh. In his last year – he enjoyed competed at FidosSurvivor and winning!

Outside of Fidos he mentored the many Fidos dogs in training that passed through the house as well as over 50 Elkhound Rescues who lived there until a home could be found for them. He loved long romps in the woods and in the snow in winter and was game to travel anywhere - especially to Erie PA where he’d swim happily in Lake Erie regardless of the weather!

He lived a full and wonderful life, touched many people. He will be missed and always remembered.