At KeenDog, we love celebrating the powerful relationships that grow between our clients and their dogs. One client who has truly inspired us is Jennifer, whose journey with her dogs beautifully blends obedience, purpose, and heart.

When Jennifer first began training with us, she had a clear and powerful goal: not only did she want well-behaved companions, but she also dreamed of her dogs becoming certified therapy dogs so she could give back to her community. And that’s exactly what she did.

Jennifer’s two therapy dogs, Cesar and Camilla, made a meaningful impact through their volunteer work at local hospitals and schools. Camilla, especially, left a lasting legacy as a reading dog at Cleveland Elementary School. With her calm presence and patient demeanor, she helped young children build confidence in their reading abilities—showing them that storytelling is not just fun, but empowering.

Last year, Jennifer became a published author, sharing Camilla’s story with the world in a beautiful children’s book: Camilla the Tail-Wagging Tutor. Through her gentle encouragement and wagging tail, Camilla invites children to fall in love with reading in a safe and joyful way. My own 3-year-old daughter often chooses this book for bedtime—Camilla has truly become a favorite in our home, too.

In March of this year, Camilla passed away at the remarkable age of 15. Her absence is deeply felt by all who knew her, especially the students at Cleveland Elementary. She loved her work, prancing proudly through the halls every Wednesday with the excitement of someone who truly knew she had an important job. She would sit by Jennifer’s desk each Wednesday morning, eyes full of anticipation, waiting for her turn to brighten someone’s day.

Camilla’s joy was palpable. Her love for the children, the stories, and her role in the classroom was more than just a weekly visit - it was a calling.

If Camilla could leave us all with one message, it might be this:
“Reading is cool. Never stop reading. And if you can find a dog or a pet to read to - you should.”

Here’s to Camilla, Cesar, Jennifer, and every human-dog duo out there making the world just a little bit brighter.