They make a striking pair, petite Karlie Patterson, 16, and her partner, Harlow, a female cookie and cream-colored Great Dane, and the relationship they have is one forged in care for one another.Patterson struggles with panic attacks and admits sometimes she experiences “bad depression spells.” Large groups make her uncomfortable. Her strategies in the past have been just to keep busy.Owning a Great Dane has been one of Patterson’s goals in life. Little did she know that adopting Harlow just over a year ago would make such a difference. Parents Brandy and Jeff Patterson, Warrenton, helped make the dream come true by permitting the pony-sized new member into their household.“She’s my lifeline,” said Patterson. “If I’m nervous she’ll put her head on my knee. Then I’ll pet her instead of tapping my fingers. She’ll get in my face when I’m crying and is supersensitive to me. She’ll even bring me toys.”Since Patterson realized that maybe Harlow was more than just a pet, Harlow has successfully been certified as a therapy dog. The team will have access into public places, such as hospitals, and will help others in addition to being there for each other.Large breed animals don’t intimidate Patterson, as she competes in western pleasure equestrian events. She also works at WestInn Kennels in Wentzville, which offers pet training, boarding, grooming and day care.WestInn Kennels recognizes Therapy Dog International (TDI) and tested Harlow for her certification. Harlow goes to work with Patterson and interacts with the dogs there as part of her socializing training.Harlow accompanies Patterson just about everywhere. In the future, the team plans to work with children with cancer or other illnesses and other groups of people who need a little TLC. Currently Patterson takes Harlow with her to area Soil and Water Conservation District farm tours as part of the FFA volunteer group.“Kids are super excited to see her,” she said. “They talk about how hard her tail is, how long her paws are or how big her head is.”Patterson said she and Harlow are tackling the challenges of serving as a therapy dog team. Each location has different noises or different medical equipment.Harlow’s therapy vest includes a “do not pet” badge when she is in training. Eventually, she will learn to ignore some of the outside distractions. Patterson said there are unusual challenges for Harlow yet to overcome.“Even though she is big, she is terrified of butterflies,” she said.The team will continue working on behavioral tactics and focusing. Patterson said a dog is never really fully trained.Meanwhile, in an effort to avoid some of the hip dysplasia problems some larger breeds sometimes face, Patterson makes sure Harlow receives the best of care. She receives vitamins, healthy food and her food bowls are elevated to chest height.Although Patterson also enjoys running, Harlow is not yet allowed to accompany her since her bones are still growing.“Yes, she sleeps with me,” admitted Patterson. “Sometimes I end up on the floor.”Patterson is a sophomore at Warrenton High School. As she plans for college in a few years, she will look for a way Harlow can be included in her plans.

Karlie Patterson, Warrenton, has successfully trained Harlow, her female Great Dane, as a certified therapy dog. Just over a year old, Harlow sometimes forgets she’s not a puppy anymore as she “sits” on Patterson’s lap. 

Record Photo/Cindy Gladden