The Washington Nationals will debut their new team dog, Natty, an 8-week-old golden retriever and Labrador retriever mix, this Friday at home against the Orioles.
Born March 5, Natty and his five siblings will train to be service dogs to help people with disabilities. Natty will be the club’s first-ever team dog and will train alongside Nationals players, staff and fans as he prepares for the next step in his development.
He arrived in D.C. on May 4 and met volunteers Jackie and Laura, who’ll teach him manners, basic cues and a proper diet to prepare him for professional training with Canine Companions instructors in 18 months.
Canine Companions is a nonprofit that invented the concept of the service dog in 1975. The company has placed over 8,600 dogs since its founding, and provides service dogs to individuals in healthcare, criminal justice and education settings.
The pup is set to appear at several games and community events throughout the season.
Fans can follow Natty’s exploits on @NatsPup_ on X and @NatsPup on Instagram.
Last June, the Nationals called up Bruce the Bat Dog from Triple-A Rochester to help with on-field duties during Pups in the Park. All the proceeds from dog tickets for that game benefited the Humane Rescue Alliance.
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