Testimonials

Jazz and I continue to work with many people in the dog world. We all share the same passion to make the world a better place for dogs and people. We have enjoyed everyone we have met and look forward to meeting many more dedicated people and dogs. Now our little girl "Jive" is joining us on our many journeys. Woofs & Smiles!

Testimonials

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"Donna Chicone and her dog, Jazz have brightened the day for many families, here at Children’s of MN. Donna has a keen understanding of dogs, and the way in which she teaches people about them is very kind and approachable. Jazz was so much fun to watch, and his gentle disposition won our hearts! Donna and Jazz, together, transmit a unique loving spirit that has been captured by a live audience, and a TV audience, both of whom were watching the close-circuit TV program at Children’s of MN. Patients, families and staff have all commented on how Donna and Jazz’ visit made a big difference in their day."

Amy Peterson
Star Studio Program Director
Children’s Hospitals of MN

"I have been lucky enough to know Donna and Jazz not only on a professional level but also as good friends. When I first started editing "The Dog Show," my knowledge of the world of dogs was minimal. Donna's excitement and passion for teaching about the many levels of the human-canine connection is contagious! Through her patience with a newer editor and new dog owner, she has taught me so much. You don't have to spend a lot of time with Donna and Jazz to see the life-long bond they have. I can't think of a better team that exemplifies the kind of pet/owner relationship we all hope to have."

Nikki Aune

Public Access Lead

Suburban Community Channels
Ramsey/Washington Suburban Cable Commission

"Donna Borton Chicone brings three important things to her work as an ambassador for the human/canine bond. First, and most important, she has an abiding love for dogs and a sincere desire to honor their inherent goodness and vulnerability. Second, she has engaging and effective communication and organizational skills honed through her success in a variety of career paths. Finally, she has a deep desire and unique ability to marry her skills for imparting information with her dedication to understanding dogs and her commitment to helping them be of service to the people in our community.

I was honored and delighted to place two very special Portuguese Water Dogs into Donna's waiting arms, knowing how well-loved and treasured they would be in her care. Now I have the distinct pleasure, along with the rest of Donna's fans and audience, to watch her extend the same loving welcome to all dogs, and to all the people who love them, in our community."

Katie Barrett-Kramer
Breeder, Portuguese Water Dogs
Hope Kennels

"Every other Thursday, Donna Chicone and her dog Jazz provide volunteer pet therapy for the clients (and staff) at Merrick, Inc. I include the staff in this because when they are here they draw us all in. The therapy they provide is extremely beneficial to anyone who is challenged physically, emotionally, behaviorally, mentally or socially. It also provides sensory and tactile input for those who are defensive in these areas. For many of these people, progress toward happiness and independence is hampered by disability. Donna and Jazz have assisted them in the first step toward an improved quality of life.

I had the opportunity to observe several sessions and find the benefits numerous. Their interactions have assisted those who are going though difficult transitions, or experiencing dementia by calming them. I work with a man who spends most of his days crying, wandering and confused about where he is and what is happening. When Jazz is in the room, he willingly interacts with him, allows some physical touch, and more amazingly will sit still and engage intently. He becomes happy and lucid and calm for a period of time, which is truly amazing.
The combination Jazz being a very gentle and non-threatening dog and Donna using a gentle human touch is just what the clients at Merrick need to receive the therapeutic benefits of their service. The two of them together are a great and valuable team and provide a very valuable service to our organization, and we are extremely thankful."

Dede Hauck
Lead Support Services Co-ordinator
Merrick Center, Inc.

“Donna's dedication to the dog world is apparent, both in her life and in her work. She truly wants to improve the lives of dogs and their owners through good information and positive experiences."

Amy Allwine, Owner & Trainer
Active Dog Sports Training, LLC.

"Donna Chicone is a dog person’s best friend! Donna has a passion for dogs and the joy of the human animal-bond. With incredible energy, she works to educate others on all aspects of not just owning dogs but sharing our lives with them. She brings together people from all areas of the dog world, from dog shows, breeders, trainers and veterinarians for complete information for the serious dog lover."

Kate An Hunter, D.V.S.
Carver Lake Veterinary Center

"As the home studio of The Dog Show for more than two years, SCC was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Donna, her crew, and of course, her co-host, Jazz.

Donna was the perfectly balanced combination of being organized, professional and most importantly, fun. Donna and the SCC staff worked well together regarding studio bookings, "The Dog Show" production day facilitation, and all related post production activity.

Donna, Jazz, and her cracker jack crew were some of the most gracious and accommodating TV people with whom we have ever had the pleasure to work with here at SCC. The team at SCC is going to miss them and wishes them the best of success in their new television endeavors!"

Ted Arbeiter

Director of Facilities and Operations

Suburban Community Channels

Ramsey/Washington Suburban Cable Commission

"As director of The Dog Show for more than two years, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Donna Chicone and her co-host, Jazz.
Jazz was excitable and still very well-behaved. Jazz enjoyed spinning around the studio with Jive when this was allowed during set-up. And what a face! How could one NOT be a star with such an adorable expression? Jazz was a delightful companion throughout The Dog Show tapings.
Donna was the perfectly balanced combination of professional and fun. It was important to Donna that the entire crew have fun throughout the tapings. Donna was gracious and grateful. As a token of her appreciation, each year Donna awarded each of the crew members with personalized trophies commemorating the year's successes. Donna also enjoyed championing her crew. Whenever possible, she e-mailed the crew on special happenings of crew's activities outside of The Dog Show. Donna listened well to suggestions by the crew for the show. Further, Donna's professionalism was made evident by her preparation for each show. Every aspect of the show was organized to minute details. And lastly, as a host, Donna was a natural. She was comfortable with the guests, articulate during interviews, and always ready with an infectious laugh.
Donna and Jazz were the best TV hosts with whom I have ever had the good fortune to work, create, and have fun. I wish them the best of success, woofs, and smiles in their new television endeavors!"

Shawn Vougeot
ZOOOMproductions, LLC
http://www.zooomvideo.com

t have had the true honor and privilege of working with Donna an d Jazz through my work as a volunteer coordinator at Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota. As a PAWH team at Children's, they have brought joy and comfort to so many patients and families on the inpatient floors. In fact, many patients would specifically ask to have Donna and Jazz visit their room or work with them in a Rehab appointment. This team has shared their time and many talents at Children's and we are very grateful!"

Lisa Munson
Volunteer Services Coordinator
Children's Hospital and Clinics

"Jazz is no stranger to Children's Hospital. Over the past several years Donna and Jazz Chicone have been participating in Children's Hospital and Clinics of MN PAWH (Pets Assisting With Healing) Program. With elegance Jazz and Donna enter the hospital ready to work. They are enthusiastic to see the children, families, and of course staff as is everyone excited to see them. The grins are ear to ear when they enter a patient's room and give a friendly wag. Donna is a strong advocate for our program and has shared her expertise with new volunteers. We are fortunate for everything she has contributed to us. Thank you for making Children's your service organization. You are always welcome to visit!"

Molly J. Lamon
Volunteer Coordinator
Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota - St. Paul Campus

"I first met Donna as a result of she and Jazz volunteering at Children’s Hospital in St. Paul. As owner of Pets-R-Loved, I have provided Donna with several embroidered items including custom-made bandanas for Jazz’s television wardrobe. I know Donna to be an extreme advocate for dogs and their owners and I have had the good fortune of giving hugs to both Jazz and Jive."

Rosalyn, Owner
Pet-R-Loved