Bliss was born May 18, 2003. She was part of the "wedding litter". Her owners' son got married the night before the litter was born. Her brothers and sister are named Chapel, Ascot, Tux, and Lace and they are all service dogs for people with disabilities. She is a Golden Retriever, and is a Certified Professional Therapy Dog, also known as Animal Assisted-Therapy Dog, trained and supplied by CARES, Center for Independence, Concordia, KS. She was puppy raised by a first grade teacher in Lawrence, who took her to school everyday from 8 weeks of age until 1 yr, when she went to be trained. Some therapy dogs are trained by inmates, however, Bliss was privately trained. She knows how to heel, come, sit, lay down, stand, and many other commands. She knows left and right, as well as wait, stay, and forward. She is very smart. Therapy dogs can help lower blood pressure, promote improved physical, psychosocial and cognitive function of students. Dogs help lower tempers, give unconditional positive acceptance, and help students show increased self esteem.
   Kansas has laws that allow assistance dogs to enter all public buildings. Bliss has an ID card that proves that she may enter public buildings. She does not carry it, but Mrs. Fitzmorris does. Bliss loves to be hugged and patted.