Artist Statement: It was not until I was fourteen that I really learned just how special animals really are. In eighth grade I decided that I wanted a service dog to help me become more independent. I went to a local non-profit company, Assistance Dogs Unlimited, seeking help. Although reluctant at first because I was so young, they paired me with a wonderful chocolate lab named Charlie. We quickly became one of their best teams, and the best of friends. As I grew up and life changed Charlie came with me. In 2009 I started my journey at UConn with Charlie at my side. He quickly became the most popular dog on campus. About a year ago I had to face the terrible fact that dogs simply do not live as long as humans do. Although it was terrible to say goodbye, I know he is still with me guiding everything I do. I most definitely would not be who I am today without him and what he taught me. So this project is in many ways a tribute to him.
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