#BringBarleyHome
Barley was born on November 8th, 2024, as part of a sweet litter of eight—three boys and five girls. Barley was chosen at the beginning of January to be my gluten-detecting puppy after I made my 10% deposit.
As I watch from a distance the training to help Barley become my gluten-detecting hero, I can’t help but think about how much this journey will change everything—just like the characters in my novels who learn to trust and grow through their own trials.
Stay tuned for updates on Barley’s progress, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the exciting steps leading us to our new, gluten-free future together!
Barley's Journey Timeline
See the Journey Progress
Follow Barley’s incredible journey from tiny puppy paws to a fully trained gluten-detection dog. This timeline captures the important moments along the way—her first steps, milestones in training, and the progress she makes toward becoming my life-changing companion. Each stage brings us closer to a safer, more confident gluten-free future, and I’m excited to share every paw-some achievement with you!
Barley’s training isn’t just about learning commands—it’s about preparing her for the moment she comes home and begins protecting my health every single day!
The Foundation
Barley started with the basics—learning to sit, stay, walk on a leash, and navigate new environments. Around eight weeks old, everything began to “click,” and she quickly grew in confidence.
Barley's curious and eager to learn.
Learning the World
From meeting farm animals to navigating busy stores and riding elevators, Barley has been steadily learning how to stay focused no matter where she goes. She even earned her Canine Good Citizen certification, an important step toward public access work.
Barley enjoys exploring at the park!
Discovering Her Purpose
In June, everything changed.
Barley was introduced to gluten scent for the first time. Soon after, she began learning how to alert—raising her paw to signal its presence. This is the foundation of the skill that will one day help protect me from accidental exposure.
Barley enjoys sniffing for kibble during enrichment time.
Refining the Skill
As her training continues, Barley is becoming more precise and consistent. She’s working with multiple trainers and strengthening her “checking” behaviors so that her alerts are clear, reliable, and trustworthy.
Barley loves playing in the water at the creek.
Every step she takes in training brings her one step closer to coming home.
Be Part of Barley’s Journey
Learn More about Barley's Joureny
Right now, Barley’s still just a tiny puppy-to-be, but the countdown has officially begun! Stay tuned for updates on Barley’s progress, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the exciting steps leading us to our new, gluten-free future together!
Growth + Milestones
From a tiny puppy to a fully trained service dog. Watch Barley's early development, key milestones, and adorable moments as she grows into her role as a gluten-detection hero.
Specialized Training
Discover the rigorous process of training to detect gluten, from identifying cross-contamination in food to detecting gluten in public spaces. Watch as Barley sharpens her skills to help keep me safe.
Barley’s journey wouldn’t be possible without the support of dedicated trainers, family, and friends. Learn more about the key people shaping her success and the journey to #bringbarleyhome!