Rain Jordan describes herself as a pragmatic and “safety-first” person, so it’s not surprising that she has continued to take COVID-19 precautions, including wearing a mask when appropriate, since getting vaccinated early in the summer.

A former college professor, Rain shares that having auto-immune risk factors, previous adverse reactions to vaccines and some skepticism about the vaccine recommendation process contributed to her having “hesitated for a long time” before getting vaccinated.

“I believe in doing the safest thing and there came a point when it was clear that COVID was getting worse with no end in reasonable sight,” says Rain. “I needed to get the vaccine to best ensure I’d be here for those who depend on me.”

A certified canine behavior consultant and professional dog trainer, with expertise working with traumatized and fearful rescue dogs, Rain says the most meaningful part about being fully vaccinated is resuming “hands-on sessions with pups and guardians” after working Zoom-only for more than a year from her home in a “semi-rural suburban-feeling” town on Oregon’s north coast.

As happy as she is to be making steps toward more normalcy, Rain shares that it’s been a “process getting back to it, especially with COVID still spreading. “I was surprised to find it hard to become comfortable again with even the most basic things, like driving, face-to-face communication and making eye contact with clients.”

Like their human caretakers, Rain suggests that pets, particularly “pandemic pups,” may also experience an adjustment period as their guardians’ schedules and activities change. “A lot of newly adopted dogs will need preparative alone training to reduce the real risks of developing separation anxiety, general loneliness and depression.”

Zoom trainings allow Rain to work with clients anywhere and it’s a great option to reach those who live in areas with limited access to such services and for dogs who learn better when strangers aren’t in their personal space.

Of course, she “loves working directly with dogs and their humans,” which brings us back to Rain’s decision to get vaccinated. After doing research, lots of reading and listening to how others reacted to getting their shots, she felt confident about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and reports experiencing minor side effects. Even so, Rain does empathize with others who might “have difficulty getting on board” because the information can be overwhelming and confusing.

Rain ultimately trusted the science and while she didn’t necessarily celebrate after becoming fully vaccinated, she did “breathe “a sigh of relief for the increased protection.” That is certainly pragmatic.

Vaccines are safe and the most effective way to protect us against serious illness and hospitalizations due to COVID-19. Find more information and a vaccine site near you today by visiting our Find a COVID-19 Vaccine in Oregon web page.