Family warns against ‘guardian homes’ after teen’s therapy dog taken by breeder
VANCOUVER — Since Devon Wagner’s dog was taken away, he says he feels like there’s a “hole” inside of him.
The 18-year-old suffered a life-changing concussion playing hockey six years ago. It caused blinding headaches and sensitivity to light and sound, forcing him to drop out of sports and delay school.
His mother, Carolyn Hopkinson, got him a Labradoodle as a therapy dog in 2013 under an arrangement with a breeder known as a “guardian home.” But this February, the breeder abruptly took the dog back, citing breach of contract.
“She completely changed my life,” Wagner said of his dog, Savana, his voice breaking. “When I’m really down, she’s no longer there for me because she was taken away. I really just want her back.”