Congratulations go out to Takoda — Supreme Grand Champion arbCH Tantaras Takoda Cloud Dancing, CGC, TDI — who was recently awarded the New Jersey Veterinary Animal Hall of Fame award. What an amazing achievement for Takoda, a five year old Shiloh Shepherd, and his owners Cindy & Ken Schleifer of New Jersey. Takoda was nominated for the award by his vet — who calls him an "ambassador of goodwill" — and earned it with all of the hard work Cindy and Takoda have done. As a team they have volunteered countless hours of their time, doing 2-4 therapy visit sessions a week since 2006.
Takoda has excelled in other areas, Takoda was one of the top dogs in the rare breed show ring when he was actively showing, achieving the #3 Top Rare Breed Dog [of all dogs showing with Rarities that year] with Rarities/NAKC in 2004.
Takoda, above with judges and breeder/handler Suzy Graham, with his BIS and RBIS awards. Photo courtesy of Cindy Schleifer.
Although Takoda excelled in the show ring, Cindy feels the work he's doing in his retirement is what he was born to do. "He just lights up when we enter a nursing home/ rehabcenter/ assisted living facility," says Schleifer. "He is a natural and was born to do this job. The patients just love when he visits, and the smiles on their faces, make me proud and happy that I'm able to share my special dog with all of them."
Takoda working and enjoying it. Photo courtesy of Cindy Schleifer.
Takoda was adopted by the Schleifer's in 2003. He is out of the December 2002 Hammer/Hunter litter bred by Suzy Graham of Tantara Shiloh Shepherds. It is with Cindy and Ken that Takoda excels at his most important job, as friend, soulmate and constant companion.
Takoda enjoying the relaxing view of the river. Photo courtesy of Cindy Schleifer.
You can read more about Takoda's award, as well as the accompanying press, at his I Love Takoda website. Congratulations Takoda, thank you for representing Shiloh Shepherds so very well.
Click play to view Takoda's therapy video. Video courtesy of Cindy Schleifer.
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