There are a lot of awesome surf dogs out in the world but there’s only one Ricochet. You see, Ricochet doesn’t just surf for the selfish pursuit in itself like most of us. She uses her skills to get kids in need some much needed surf therapy.
This time the trip to the beach was held to raise awareness of Spinal Muscular Atrophy, the number one genetic cause of death in infants. It’s a debilitating illness that can make it impossible to do some of the most simple things we take for granted. Walking, standing, having the strength to sit up on your own or even hold your head up are all basic functions some children lose to SMA. In even more severe cases the ability to swallow could become impossible, or breathing without the help of a breathing tube. Imagine that life, and you probably can’t picture how to fit in the joy of riding a wave. For this group that meant a surf session with Ricochet called for the help of the surf dog herself, a tandem buddy, and even a specially equipped board.
Four year old Logan Velchansky’s first ever surf session was a hit. As possibly the only surfer who will ever be able to pull off goggles, his Type III SMA keeps him from standing, crawling, and even swallowing. Rumor has it the little dude was a little worried about going into the ocean (you know, with all the shark stuff these days), which is where Ricochet came in to help. As a puppy service dog in training Ricochet never outgrew her urge to chase after birds. Since that’s a bit of a no-no for service dogs she had to be released from the training program. But a few things were left: her affection and attention towards those in need, and a love for being in the water. When her trainer decided to use Ricochet’s big heart as a four-legged SURFice dog she noticed the golden retriever’s intense focus and care towards her tandem partners. That was comforting enough to get Logan into his first wave, leaving behind the old fear of sharks and bringing on that familiar “again, again, again” excitement we all know so well.
“It kind of re-solidifies that fact that you can still have a great life even with a disability,” Logan’s mom said after that first surf session.
Same old Ricochet, always spreading the good vibes.
Triple shaka. Triple firing. Photo: KillerSurfPix
