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tessa

amazing dog

Tessa was born on January 12, 2019 and is a Black Labrador Retriever. She came home to RtW Owner Kat Zwick and her partner on March 9th, and was initially in ongoing training (in addition to playing, cuddling, and sleeping) to become a full-fledged therapy dog.

Tessa attended sessions with Kat for some time before Kat discovered that Tessa has her own anixety disorder and would not be able to be a full-on therapy dog for clients. Still, Tessa has always brought a smile and comfort to clients of Kat’s. Now she does so remotely, while Tessa naps and says hello to clients through Telehealth sessions!

Check out Tessa’s Instagram @therapydogtessa for pictures, updates, and even Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) tips and tools!

Click on the gallery below to see Tessa through the months so far! (Oldest to youngest)

 
 
 
We want to thank Emilee Turbeville, who provided significant puppy care and training during Tessa’s first 5 months in Santa Cruz to help Tessa prepare to be a therapy dog! Emilee moved back south to be closer to her family in 2019. This is a pic of …

We want to thank Emilee Turbeville, who provided significant puppy care and training during Tessa’s first 5 months in Santa Cruz! Emilee moved back south to be closer to her family in 2019. This is a pic of Tessa at 6 months old with Emilee. Thank you, Emilee!