Adar the Afghan is Dog of the Day
If you’ve seen our adorable A-Z dog breed video you may have noticed some amazing photos of a gorgeous Afghan kicking off our “A” breeds. Well, that dog is Adar and he’s a therapy dog and an inspiration.
Meet Adar, the 7-year-old therapy Afghan, and our dog of the day
“I always wanted an afghan hound. After struggling with some illness I decided that I would search for one. I contacted an afghan rescue organization and they suggested training a puppy instead of an older dog with possible rescue issues. Adar came into my life from a loving family & was the only male in a litter of 8 females at just 10 weeks old.”
Adar’s mom Terre adopted him at a time in her life when she was struggling with health issues and going through physical therapy to regain her strength. Recently divorced and with 3 lovely and helpful kids at home, Terre was looking for a service dog to take some pressure off of her kids and help her regain her independence.
“Adar and I are like one person now. Over the years we have grown very close. We can anticipate and read each other’s minds… As long as we are together- be it at a dog park, playing catch, taking walks, going to the beach or just cuddling watching T.V. – we are happy.”
When Terra adopted Adar, she had 3 rescue cats, her 3 kids and 2 poodles in her home. She told us how right from day one Adar loved playing & sleeping with the poodles and cats. Her kids also really enjoyed playing with Adar and helped to socialize him.
“He was a rascal and got into all kinds of mischief growing up. From 5 months old to a year I took Adar from puppy to adult training classes. He graduated his “CGC” Canine Good Citizen Program and Service Dog Program at a year old. Adar gets along well with all different kinds of animals and people.”
About the Afghan Breed
Terre explained that Afghan Hounds go through many physical changes over the first few years of their lives. As they grow, their legs get very long and they have a lanky clumsy gait. Their fur also changes to hair and they shed their coat which requires daily brushing. Even their face goes through many different looks as their snout/nose extends, they develop what Terre called monkey whiskers, and grow funny little strands from their chin. A main concern as they grow is their curly tail which is very fragile as a pup until they mature when it becomes stronger and thicker.
Terre explained that any breed can be a therapy dog but the dog should be 1yr old to begin training. Not all dogs’ personalities are suited for the work as it depends on many factors. They should be very sociable and calm. You can read our article about what makes a good therapy dog here.
About training Adar to be a therapy dog 
“At that time, I felt so much more independent with Adar at my side. My career was as a clinical & forensic scientist and I missed working in a hospital helping others. With my 2 lovely daughters off to college and only my sweet son at home, I decided to take a Therapy Dog Team training class to see if Adar had the right temperament to be a therapy dog.”
Terre explained that the training was extensive, covering everything from desensitising him to noises, working well with other dogs he meets for the first time that could be working the same day, and being touched by people of all ages.
“Adar and I loved working together and enjoyed the smiles he brought to all. Touching people’s lives during their time of crisis with a warm paw and soft fur can make all the difference. It’s very rewarding work and we have a special bond but it does requires breaks every 30 to 45 mins. Being touched so often by strangers can be very exhausting to a dog.”
Adar and Terre have volunteered at a children’s oncology clinic, retirement homes, and a children’s brain injury centre for a few years.
“Working as a therapy dog team is a very rewarding and bonding experience that brings you so much closer together with your dog. Adar has enriched my life in so many ways. In our lifetime we have many pets, but there are always a few special ones Adar is one of those who leaves a lasting glow of happiness to all who meets him.”
Adar the superstar
At a dog park event Adar was discovered by a photographer and asked to model which has lead to Adar now also working as an actor and a model. Terre told us they have a lot of fun on set where he shines.The photos we have seen are just stunning.
Adar is beautiful. My Mom’s friend bred afghans many years ago. I always have been fond of them.
Afghan hounds are beautiful. I’ve seen some of them run at lure coursing events. And there’s one in 101 dalmations!
Adar is such a beautiful dog. We love reading stories about how animals help humans. Adar and Terre have such a beautiful relationship.
I love the Afghan, they’re so regal. What a wonderful story, and that doggy smiley picture says everything.
Adar is such a unique dog! I love that long hair – it’s gorgeous. It is wonderful that Adar has been able to help Terre and all of the people he visits as a therapy dog. Animals have a very special healing power. 🙂
I think it’s so special that animals can help provide therapy and healing to others AND it also helps avoid pets from being euthanized. Adar is a very special breed. I swear Adar almost looks human in the third photo. Congrats to him for expanding his career. Now he’s a star!
Adar is absolutely gorgeous and has better hair than most people. Unsurprising that he is a model. It sounds like he has brains and beauty. Terre is very lucky to have him in her life.
Thank you for sharing Adar’s story, I really enjoyed learning more about Afghans. They are such beautiful dogs and Adar sounds very special and sweet.
What a special dog Adar is to provide so much TLC to people who need it most. Thanks for sharing this inspirational story!
As a kid, an Afghan Hound grew up near us and I was always amazed at how graceful and beautiful they are. Then David Frei talked about how he loved them. What a majestic breed. TY for sharing this story! See you soon.
These dogs are so majestic, beautiful and am happy Adar was trained to be a service dog, what a beautiful connection and relationship
What a lovely dog, and such an amazing story! I remember they were hunting dogs, I read somehwere – I thought Holy Smoke seeing that dog run beside you!!
I’ve always wanted to see an Afghan in person. They appear to be beautiful dogs. I love how Adar is working as a service dog.
ALWAYS loved Afghans … and Saluki’s …. such beauty and grace. It’s nice to see they make good therapy dogs too!
Adar is gorgeous! I love that she does therapy work too. I love hearing about therapy animals. I would hope to train one of my cats someday! Thanks for sharing about her!