Whiz Kid of the Week: Nicole Zahner

Name: Nicole Zahner

Age: 13

School: Orangevale Open K-8

Accomplishment(s): Trains puppies for Canine Companions for Independence, fencing and tap dancing student, accomplished academic, aspiring performing artist.

Keys to Awesomeness: In 2007, Nicole traveled to Santa Rosa to help pick out a special canine companion for her brother. The pooch was selected from Santa Rosa’s Canine Companions for Independence – an organization specializing in the training of dogs for children and adults with disabilities. The services are provided free of charge, according to the organization’s website.

The experience inspired Nicole to take a proactive role in helping others with disabilities. It was that inspiration that convinced her to adopt eight-week-old Labrador, Tessa. For the next 18 months, Nicole traveled with Tessa to fencing lessons, tap dance class and pretty much everywhere else, training Tessa to become a full-fledged CCI helper.

“I was a little nervous, because I wanted to raise the puppy right,” Nicole said. “I kept in mind why I was doing this. It motivated me to do my best.”

During the program Nicole trained Tessa in a number of commands required by the CCI course as well as basic instructions typical for many dogs. Though at times the requirements could be frustrating, Nicole persevered, knowing the lessons she taught Tessa would eventually lend to helping others in need.

“You have to stick with it, do it right and go back to practice again and again until you get it right,” Nicole said.

Nicoles part in Tessa's training completed nearly two months ago and since Nicole has placed Tessa back with CCI where the dog will receive six months of advanced training before being placed with someone in need of the pooch’s special training. Letting go for Nicole was difficult at first, but she continues to receive updates on Tessa. Nicole is proud of the work she did with Tessa and though she may miss her furry friend, Nicole will probably train more dogs in the future.

“It was a little hard to let go, but I always kept in mind I had to let go,” Nicole said. “I knew it would be helpful for someone else.”

For those interested in finding out more about CCI and what the organization does, click here for more information.

Other Key Factors:

Favorite food: Fondue, spaghetti and pizza.

Favorite books and movies: Harry Potter (the books), Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (the books) and Inception

If she had the power to change one thing and make the world a better place, what would it be? “I want people to be more accepting of others’ differences.”