Moku's A Superstar!

Liz R. Kover
Oct 1, 2015
2 min read

Daily CHALLENGE & ACTiViTY Summary

Dog’s name: Moku

Date: Thursday, October 1, 2015

Physical Fitness

Moku and I had SUCH a busy day today! While our only proper exercise, as a calculated practice, was a walk around the neighborhood (to drain energy before Moku’s very first assembly!), we were active and expending tons of energy throughout much of the day. Moku also got in a good swim, and we walked some at The Mission before starting class.

Cognitive Fitness

Once again, I find myself over the moon with pride for this boy! Today, Moku joined the ranks of the most seasoned therapy dogs on our Miracle Mutts team, helping to educate the (120) first-graders at Stella Hills Elementary School on responsible pet guardianship, and how to meet dogs safely. He was so calm and mature, either sitting or laying next to me (or in the shade with the other dogs and their handlers) throughout the 45 minute presentation, which involved lots of loud kids who seem to “bustle” even while sitting still. Moku demonstrated his commands, and also showed the kids how to greet other dogs properly! As we exited the schoolyard, Moku walked gently down the row of students, letting each child pet him as he passed by them. He was a natural and a pro in this very hectic setting!

Social Fitness

Moku did amazingly well during the assembly, as previously mentioned. He interacted appropriately with both of the other dogs, one of whom was at first overwhelmed by his exuberance. He tempered his energy and allowed her space. THIS is a new thing. This is something I have worked with him on very consciously, and am seeing the results coming through just recently in his behavior. It is a joy and source of pride to witness!

He was also great at The Mission! He interacted perfectly with all of the other dogs and people, and demonstrated his commands in the middle of a big circle of onlookers. Moku gets an A+ for the day!

Emotional Fitness

I count Moku’s very tangible maturity in certain (aforementioned areas) as a perfect reflection of his emotional fitness! He is calming down (some) in the areas where it’s clear he has learned he needs to do so. It is so awesome to witness the LEARNING process!

Primal Fitness

I consider Moku’s service to his community today, and interaction as a loyal, loving friend to many children and adults alike, as related to his primal fitness. As Labrador retrievers are bred for those very traits. And Moku’s labbie spirit shines through in spades in all these wonderful ways!