Golden retriever Samson takes his job as a medical service response dog very seriously, maybe even too seriously. For owner Lea Hendy, it became apparent quickly that the loveable giant didn’t know how to dog. On their days off at the dog park, Samson was the odd man out, sitting alone in the corner while the other pups played. It seemed like he couldn’t turn off work mode or form bonds with other dogs. Samson joined Lea’s family to train as a service dog. When she noticed his seeming lack of social skills with other dogs, she was determined to find a way to bring him out of his shell. Little did she know that a chance encounter with a cat would change everything. While they were out traveling, Samson spotted a kitten in the window of a building and immediately wanted to play. It was an “aha!” moment that Samson could indeed make deep bonds; it just had to be with the right animal. A couple of months later, they brought home a tiny kitten named Cleo, and the instant friendship surprised everyone. They gently placed the backpack with the little kitten inside in the middle of the room, and Samson immediately sprung into excited barks and tail wags. Lea said they were never expecting him to be so excited about his new friend, and the two have been inseparable since. A PURR-FECT MATCH HOW A KITTEN HELPED SAMSON UNLEASH HIS INNER PUP
Snowy S SIMPLE ST
As another Missouri winter leads us indoors, it’s essential to maintain our peace of mind and keep our bodies balanced. Here are a few simple tips to fight off the holiday pounds and more.
UTILIZE YOUR HOME
HEALTH HUB. While some people believe they need a set of weights or expensive home workout equipment to stay in shape during inclement weather,
our homes already offer plenty of opportunities to stay healthy. If you’re stuck at home with free time, everyday chores like vacuuming or making inside windows spotless can help keep you active. For a more extensive workout, consider rearranging the furniture in your living room. If you’re able, doing repetitions on a set of stairs can help keep your legs in shape. Oddly enough, your kitchen is one of the best workout spots in your home. Instead of raiding the fridge before snuggling up in front of the TV, try “kitchen counter push-ups.” The process is SIDESTEP WINTER S Smart Tips for Snow and Winter is challenging for people in various parts of the country, but it can be particularly brutal for us here in the Kansas City area. While most of us exercise extreme caution behind the wheel, we may overlook simple things that put us at risk for slips and falls while walking outside our homes or in the community. Here are a few tips to help avoid serious injuries when braving the elements on foot. WINTER-READY WARDROBE ESSENTIALS Whenever you venture outside — even if it’s a quick trip to check your mailbox — always dress to help protect yourself from a fall. First and foremost, pay attention to what’s on your feet, as wore-down footwear is the biggest culprit for seasonal slips. Even if you plan to be outdoors for only a minute, be sure to cover your hands with water-resistant gloves and mittens to help give you a firm grip on railings and other objects that may be icy. In addition to helping you stay warm as outdoor temperatures drop, covering up with extra layers of clothing — including a puffy winter coat — may cushion your body if you tumble on the ice. It’s also important to keep those
“It was so heartwarming to see him come out of his shell and immediately form a connection with Cleo,” Lea said.
Now, the pair spend every moment they can together, playing, napping, and enjoying each other’s company. Cleo has become an avid adventurer since the family started taking her on hikes. When the kitty tires out, she takes a ride on her older brother Samson, who looks so proud to be transporting his sister.
Cleo, a tiny kitten with a big heart, allowed Samson, a workaholic looking for a friend, to break out of his shell and
explore his world in ways his family never thought possible. Now, thousands of people worldwide watch their friendship and adventures on the animal-odd couple’s
Instagram page @calvin.andco.
“It shows that friendship has no bounds,” Lea said. “Anyone can be friends.”
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