by Juraj Miklos
It all began with a seemingly simple question, a casual moment that would set the stage for a life-changing journey. When Isabella asked if I’d be willing to learn helper work, I didn't fully grasp the depth of the challenge that was about to unfold. The request seemed straightforward, but it sparked something profound within me, a call to action I couldn't ignore.
From that moment, a new challenge emerged—how to become a reliable and effective helper. I invested countless hours practicing at the club and studying videos. Every spare moment was dedicated to mastering this role, driven by a desire to inspire others and prove that this dream was achievable. The late-night sessions, the endless repetitions, the feedback loops—it was all part of the process. I knew that every bit of effort would be worth it.
My journey as a training helper started with Cobra. We grew up together, side by side—him from a goofy puppy to a powerful dog, me from a newbie who couldn’t present a sleeve to a helper who lived and breathed helper work. Together, we learned, found motivation, and strength. Cobra wasn’t just a dog; he was my partner, my teacher, and my inspiration. Each training session with him was a step forward, a new lesson learned.
I didn’t fully realize what the helper could feel until that day in Dobříš when I walked Isabella and Cobra from the car to the field for their protection routine. The satisfaction of that moment exceeded all my expectations. The anticipation, the adrenaline, the pride—it was all overwhelming. I felt deeply emotional, and the pictures of the past three years went wild in my head. Here we are, working on his barking, troubleshooting techniques, or discussing new ideas.
“Let’s go” was our motto from the beginning. It was a simple phrase, but it encapsulated our spirit of determination and adventure. Throughout our training, we ventured to new places, pushed our limits, and explored every opportunity. Whether it was waking up early for a new training session or driving to unfamiliar locations, each experience reinforced our dedication. Those early mornings, the long drives, the countless hours on the field—they were all part of our journey.
That short walk from the car to the field felt like a parent letting go of their child into adult life. The transition from “Let’s go” to “Let it go” was where the true magic happened. It felt so profound, proud, and rewarding that I had to hold back tears just to absorb it all. In that moment, I realized that all the hard work, the sacrifices, and the challenges were worth it. I saw all those people in the stands watching us, watching Team Cobra, raising their phones to capture our efforts was both surreal and exhilarating. Their cheers, their applause—it was a recognition of our journey and our hard work.
Looking back, I will never forget the sense of trust and teamwork we built at the club. Growing alongside a dog like Cobra and gaining the confidence of handlers was an achievement I’ll never forget. Knowing that someone believed in you, despite the obstacles, made every sacrifice worthwhile. The support of my fellow handlers, their trust in my abilities, and their encouragement were invaluable.
The feelings from “Let’s go” to “Let it go” will remain with me forever. It represents the essence of being a true helper—believing in the team and playing a trusted role in something greater. The collective effort and energy of everyone involved created something extraordinary, and I’ll always cherish the journey that brought us here. It’s a journey of growth, of challenges, of triumphs, and of unforgettable moments. It’s a journey that defines who I am, and it’s a journey that I’ll carry with me always.
K9Force (2024, August). From “Let’s Go” to “Let It Go”
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