Follow an adorable Golden Retriever as he trains to become a helper for the disabled. Ira was not born to be an ordinary dog. A few weeks after his birth, a foster puppy trainer with possibilities, Canine Partners for People with Disabilities, took him home to begin his training as a Service Dog. Service dogs help people who have a lot of difficulty moving around on their own. To become one, Ira must learn how to retrieve dropped keys; press a wheelchair sign to open doors; ride a bus; sit quietly in loud, distracting places; and do many other difficult tasks. Not many dogs can do all that! Fortunately, Ira is smart and confident, and he is able to pass his Service Dog test. Unfortunately, the new facility that Ira needs to attend for more detailed training isn't ready. What will happen to Ira? Will he be able to learn a new career as a Guide Dog for the Blind?

Dorothy Hinshaw Patent and William Munoz have worked together on a number of photo-essays, including Homesteading and the acclaimed West by Covered Wagon, which School Library Journal starred as “a handsomely designed and well-conceived piece of non-fiction.” Dorothy lives in Montana with her husband, and William lives in British Columbia with his family.