We applied to Bergin University of Canine Studies for a facility dog at our children's organization. Although we were prepared for a long wait we were called within 5 months and started training 6 months after applying. We were matched with a 2 year old Golden Retriever who has become beloved by patients, family members and staff alike. He helps patients get through difficult procedures, have some "normal time" in abnormal circumstances. He has quickly become a mainstay and carries his own patient list, he snuggles, gives hugs, helps open doors and take off socks or pull down zippers, he helps children brace to walk and most importantly he sits quietly and let's children, family members and staff hug or pet him. If he has a day off I get emails with sad faces! Most importantly he really loves his job, he is always looking to meet and greet and is so gentle and calm that it is amazing. He is also far smarter than I am as his trainer. If I use the wrong word for a command he just tilts his head and looks at me, waiting patiently for me to let him know what I want. The training was wonderful if not a bit overwhelming, I had no idea how smart dogs are. In the first week we learned 108 commands! Staff were extremely patient, compassionate and encouraging. I could not have asked for a more positive experience or a more positive outcome. THANK YOU!
My husband and I joined Bergin University ten years ago as puppy petters. A "no brainer" when it sounds like the easiest job on the earth. Who wouldn't want to pet puppies? We graduated to being foster parents for student's dogs who needed a quiet place while their student was not able to take them home with them on summer, Thanksgiving or Christmas vacation. We have also fostered several pregnant breeders. We've lost track of how many "grandpuppies" we have over the years. We look forward to fostering our 27 th dog for them.
I joined Bergin University as a volunteer 20 years ago. I guess that says something about how I feel about this organization. Most non-profits depend heavily upon volunteers, and Bergin is no exception. Along with many other devoted volunteers, we do whatever we can to help. To name just a very few activities: petting puppies (Well, somebody has to do it!) which helps in their brain development and socialization, preparing them for an important role in someone's life; puppy raising and fostering; social therapy visits with incarcerated men and women; public relations via booth duty at community events; fundraising; preparing and serving meals to clients, students, and staff during client training; administrative work. The list goes on and on, but I think the picture is clear. We help in many ways, and the staff is quick to acknowledge their appreciation. That--and the dogs, of course--is what keeps us coming back.
Myself and Thor graduated as a team in May 2018. Thor helps me be more independent by assisting with tasks in the home such as retrieving items for me .
Thor performed this lifesaving task within the first two weeks of living with me. When myself required immediate medical assistance, Thor ran into the other room to get help from another household member, then returned to the room and laid with me while help was on the way.
Without Bergin university and the work they do I might not have been able to share this.
I absolutely love Bergin University and all they are about! I was so blessed to have received Nelly, a facility dog, from Bergin who is the best dog in the world! Nelly is my “canine therapist” who works alongside me in my profession as a pediatric occupational therapist in the hospital and clinic settings. She is phenomenal with everyone she comes into contact with during her work day, both children and adults alike! I am so grateful for the thorough and comprehensive client training that Nelly and I participated in at Bergin and we will always remember those special 2 weeks full of learning,bonding, and love with all the wonderful community of staff, students , and volunteers at Bergin. Bonnie Bergin is outstanding and her years of experience and expertise in canine studies is amazing! She is truly an inspiration! I have so much appreciation and gratitude for Bergin University, and we will always be part of the Bergin family!
I am drawn to this non-profit, because they have such a long track record of successfully supporting Veterans and people with mobility challenges. They are local in SOnoma County and have been around since 1991. Bergin keeps very low overhead for it's budget so the money stays in programs. The power of the connection between the service dogs and students & training staff is remarkable as the dogs make their journey to placement with our clients. What a blessing it is to volunteer in a place like this.