Tex: 5 FAQs About Our Facility Dog

Sep 21, 2025 | More Info

Tex VI, our beloved facility dog at The Shea Center, has captured the hearts of clients, staff, and visitors alike. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common questions we get about Tex — with answers from Matt Mitchell, Tex’s handler.

1. Background & Training: Where did Tex come from?

Tex was bred by Canine Companions and raised from 8 weeks old to 1.5 years by volunteer puppy raiser Sharon Harrington in Albuquerque, NM. During his puppy-raising years, Tex experienced trains, airplanes, swim lessons, agility courses, golf courses, hot air balloon festivals, and so many adventures that helped prepare him for life as a facility dog.

After puppy raising, Tex underwent 6 months of professional training with Canine Companions. Matt then completed a 2-week “team training” to learn how to care for and work alongside Tex. On day three, Tex and Matt were paired, and it was clear from their first meeting that Tex was the perfect fit for Shea! Today, Tex completes yearly recertifications to maintain his status as a facility dog.

2. Does Tex live at Shea?

Tex does not live at Shea. While he works hard here, he gets to hang up his vest and go home with Matt at the end of the day. Matt is the only certified handler, which means other staff cannot facilitate Tex’s work duties. Tex can still go for walks with coworkers or have sleepovers when Matt is out of town, but he’s only “on duty” with his handler.

3. Does Tex ride horses?

Tex doesn’t ride horses himself, but he knows his horse buddies’ roles and supports clients in his own special way. He has joined award ceremonies, handing out ribbons, and often sidewalks alongside the horses. While clients are mounted, Tex usually relaxes nearby, saving his interactions for before and after horseback activities.

4. How many cues does Tex know? What are his top cues at Shea?

Tex knows more than 40 cues! Some of his favorites at Shea include:

Tug – helps clients with balance and upper body strength
Fetch – for ball skills practice
Walking stairs – maintaining pace with clients
Picking up and handing objects – to help staff, volunteers, and clients
Relay tasks – picking up multiple objects and returning them to a basket

These cues allow Tex to be an active, engaging partner in a wide range of client activities.

5. How does Tex support clients?

Tex supports clients in countless ways — bringing comfort, motivation, fun, and helpfulness:

Providing deep, calming pressure when needed
Playing and interacting to make activities engaging
Helping with tasks like pushing objects, closing drawers, or even pressing the ADA button
Meeting clients at eye level using our special tables
Encouraging new clients to feel comfortable and participate fully in Shea services

Tex’s presence inspires creativity, confidence, and joy for both clients and staff every day. Tex truly is one-of-a-kind, and with Matt’s expert guidance, he makes every day brighter for everyone at The Shea Center.