Brody was wearing a collar with a tag when he was picked up by animal control, but when his owners abandoned him and refused to pay the fine, Collie Rescue of Indiana took him in. Weighing only 43 pounds, he was emaciated and needed reliable meals. Even so, his foster mom, Mary, could see this dog was something really special and just needed some training.

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Enter Gail Diedrichsen, retired teacher, who wanted a dog with the right personality to serve as a therapy dog. Mary assured her, “You want a therapy dog? Brody is your guy!”

Two years have past and the rest of his story is happy history!  Brody has become a certified therapy dog and volunteers with the Naperville Area Humane Society’s Paws for Tales program, performing tricks to make learning fun and listening patiently as children read to him. Brody also loves to dance and flaunts his moves for his delighted audience. It’s no wonder he’s a favorite!

It’s no surprise that handsome Brody thinks he’s the “toast of the town” and he proudly celebrates fame with his own wine label. Collie Nose Wines, available through the Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois website, helps homeless dogs. Brody also volunteers for Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois and, while representing them, he was honored to play Lassie with Jon Provost (Timmy) for the promotion of his book, Timmy’s in the Well.

Brody views serving as an ambassador dog with the opportunity to meet the public as his most important role. As a great example of the wonderful pets in shelters waiting to be discovered, it’s an opportunity for him to help other dogs who have not been as lucky. With his tail wagging, Brody says, “Don’t shop! Adopt a great dog like me!”