Ricochet joined the Puppy Prodigies’ program on Neo-Natal & Early Learning as a service dog trainee from the minute she was born. She began training at birth, as program instructors think that the earlier service dogs begin training, the more effective they will be. Puppy Prodigies is a group that focuses on training dogs as early as possible and match them with the right people who need them.
The golden retriever made rapid improvement during her training. However, as she grew older, her propensity for pursuing birds intensified as well.
Ricochet’s instructors attempted to get this behavior out of her since it poses a hazard to people with disabilities as service dogs must devote their whole attention to their human companion when on duty. However, they were ultimately unsuccessful, and Ricochet’s owner, Judy Fridono, was forced to withdraw her from the program. Naturally, she was disappointed, but she reasoned that it would be best if Ricochet continued to do what she enjoyed the most: surfing.
Ricochet has been endearingly called the “surf-ice dog” for assisting disabled surfers. Her surfing prowess also contributes to philanthropic fundraising efforts.
Patrick Ivison, a young man undergoing rehabilitation for quadriplegia, was the beneficiary of the golden retriever’s first attempt at fundraising. Patrick took on adaptable surfing, and Judy thought it would be fantastic if he and Ricochet could surf together.
Ricochet leaped right on Patrick’s board halfway during their ride on the waves, eager to surf with the boy. The surfer dog raised over $10,000 for Patrick.
Ricochet had an aptitude for not only surfing but also for determining the best way to aid her surfing pals. The dog stays on the back of the surfboard when she surfs with physically handicapped youngsters such as Patrick or those who have cerebral palsy to help balance the board and prevent it from turning over.
The dog moves to the front when her surfing friend is physically capable, so they can hold on to her and avoid falling off.
Ricochet has since organized hundreds of fundraisers and garnered numerous accolades. She is also featured in an IMAX original film, Superpower Dogs.
Source: Surf Dog Ricochet
