How Animal Behavior Training and Doggie Manners classes helped a rescue find his purpose.
A Perfect Match
Malley Blue entered Mary’s life on July 3, 2025, but their story began several weeks earlier. After Mary had made multiple visits to Tallahassee Animal Services, she received a message from Lauren, a Board Member with the Animal Shelter Foundation (ASF) who knew she was looking for a Lab mix. Lauren sent Mary a photo of a dog she believed might be the perfect match and shared, “He retrieves!”
As a widow, Mary had spent 15 years dreaming of volunteering with Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Animal Therapy once she retired. She was already approved to join the program, but still needed a suitable dog. Despite months of searching, none felt right—until Malley. She immediately realized he was the dog she had been waiting for when they met.
Confidence Takes Time…Training Made the Difference
Malley struggled with shyness and separation anxiety. He even managed to jump Mary’s six‑foot privacy fence, twice, only to wait calmly at the front door to be let inside. With consistent reassurance and the strategies Lauren shared, Malley’s anxiety steadily improved.
To assist with the transition for Malley and his adopter, ASF sponsored their enrollment in Doggie Manners classes. After the classes concluded, Malley had additional needs to address so ASF arranged two private sessions of Animal Behavior Training with ASF Partner, Morgan’s Dog Training. Mary also kept the momentum going with regular distraction training in busy public places, plus ongoing work with Morgan’s and 24 K Retrievers.
Gradually, Malley’s confidence grew. His leash manners improved, his anxiety eased, and he began to shine. Mary believes that Lauren and Colleen, a shelter volunteer, played a pivotal role in shaping Malley into the exceptional dog he is today. Even after adoption, their guidance continued. Mary stated, “ASF supported us at every step, providing resources and encouragement that made all the difference.”
Now Reporting for Duty
On May 19, 2026, Malley and his adopter passed the TMH Animal Therapy credentialing exam. Since then, he has been bringing comfort and joy to Emergency Departments, clinics, schools, and community sites across Tallahassee.
Malley takes his job seriously, and he’s quickly become a fan favorite. His Pit-mix appearance often sparks connection, as people share photos of their own Pits and tell his handler how much it means to see a dog like Malley in a therapy role.
He has also earned his AKC Trick Dog Novice and Intermediate titles performing tricks on visits to brighten someone’s day. His newest job is being a reading buddy at Trinity Catholic School, where he lies perfectly still and listens as if he doesn’t want to miss a single word.
Why Behavior Training Matters
Malley’s story shows what behavior training can do to help a pup reach their full potential and have a wonderful life. It helps dogs adjust to new homes, gives adopters the tools to succeed, and sets the stage for lasting adoptions. For some dogs, it opens the door to extraordinary service in their communities.
ASF programs like Animal Behavior Training and Doggie Manners classes are possible because of supporters like you.
His adopter says it best:
“Malley Blue is more than a rescue dog—he is a partner, a healer, and a reminder that second chances can change lives. Thanks to the Animal Shelter Foundation, he found his purpose. And thanks to Malley, I found mine.”
Help Us Make More Success Stories Possible
Every donation supports ASF programs like Animal Behavior Training and Doggie Manners classes as well as many other programs that give homeless animals in our community the chance to heal and live happy, healthy lives. You can make a difference and support the ASF mission by making a tax-deductible donation with a one-time gift or by becoming a Lifesaver Circle monthly donor.