A 'Buddy' in times of need, a friend all the time

Those eyes.

That's what folks see first.

That face.

Almost a split second later.

And that calm demeanor.

That's 'cause he has a job to do.

Buddy, that is.

Buddy, the 7-year-old, pink-nosed pit bull.

He made quite an impressed when he first walked into St. Paul's Lutheran Church on the last day of its summer Vacation Bible School Friday.

"The theme was Barnyard Roundup," said Pastor Peter Kurowski. About 60 students attended this year's school. "We were talking about sheep and goats, pigs and cows, and all kinds of other critters and creatures."

That's why it seemed perfectly natural to end the school with a puppy.

"It was God's happenstance," Pastor Pete said, adding that he just happened to meet Karen Williams, owner of Dogworld Resort and Training at the Lake of the Ozarks, at a meeting to which he went. Williams also trains, fosters and cares for dogs.

"It's her calling," Pastor Pete said.

Apparently, it's Buddy's calling too.

"Buddy loves working," Williams said.

It was the first time Buddy, along with his trainer, Williams, presented a program to the class of youngsters and teachers.

"He was so happy that day," she added.

Williams explained that Buddy alerts her to any smell or substance that might trigger an adverse allergic reaction for Williams. Sawdust, excessive cologne, and the smell of insecticide, etc. These and other scents can cause harm to Williams.

When Buddy smells anything of danger to Williams, he immediately lays down, signaling danger.

If, however, Williams still has an attack, Buddy gets to her as quickly as possible with the inhaler and other medicines necessary to stop the allergic reaction on the spot.

Buddy is currently working for his International Therapy dog certificate. It requires 500 successful visits and Buddy has many under his "collar," as Williams explained. A therapy dog is one who visits people to make them feel better and happier. A service dog is one who performs and assists people with medical needs.

In addition to being a service dog, Buddy is extremely polite as well. Whenever Williams started to speak to the assembled crowd last Friday, he also politely and quietly sits down while his charge, Williams, is speaking.

No fidgeting.

No barking.

No pulling at his leash.

Totally perfect behavior.

That's when Williams explained not only what Buddy's job is, but also the best way the youngsters can approach any dog.

"I stress with the kids to always ask before petting any dog," Williams said. "Then let the dog approach them. don't rush up to the dog and pat the top of the hea. Approach the dog with good manners. Don't run and squeal. That makes the dogs uncomfortable. Always start petting the dog on the side of their face. Not patting or smacking on top of the head. When they approach like that, both are safe. No running. A dog will automatically chase."

She also talked about some of the false stories about pit bulls, as well as answered question from the youngsters about other animals. Williams also talked about spaying and neutering, and the proper care of pets in regards to food, water, their own bed, and lots of love.