Today feels like such a milestone in this journey Esther and I have been on together. After months of training, practicing skills, building confidence, and learning how to work as a therapeutic team, we now have our official Pet Partners Team Evaluation date:
Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Emma S. Clark Memorial Library in Setauket, NY.
I can’t even describe how proud I am of Esther. From the moment she came home with me at just eight weeks old, she has shown this gentle, intuitive spirit that makes her perfect for therapy work. Every step of this process, from mastering “Leave It “to practicing “Head Down” to calmly navigating busy environments, has been preparing her for this moment.
Preparing for the Big Day
Between now and January, Esther and I will continue polishing her skills, making sure she’s confident with all the required elements:
✔ Calm greetings
✔ Loose-leash walking
✔ Reactions to equipment
✔ Reactions to other dogs
✔ Accepting touch from unfamiliar people
✔ Remaining composed in unpredictable situations
And, of course, I’ll be working on my handler responsibilities too. The evaluation is a team effort, and I want to show up as centered and confident as Esther is.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about passing a test. It’s about the calling I feel as a thanatology and community health student, someone who has personally walked alongside grief, and someone who believes deeply in the healing presence of animals. Esther will not just be a therapy dog, she’ll be a partner in helping people feel seen, comforted, and less alone.
A Loving Reminder
Pet therapy doesn’t just happen; it’s built. It’s trained. It’s nurtured. And it requires a dog with a heart big enough to love everyone she meets.
Esther has that heart.
We’re ready. We’re grateful. And we can’t wait for this next chapter.
🐾 Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing updates as evaluation day gets closer!
Anna & Esther: Companionship, Grief and the Healing Power of Presence 
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