Day 1016

Ranger had an interview with the ABC Papers and did such a fine job! Before we left for the hospital, we had spent a portion of the morning grooming him to be his most beautiful self and HE WAS! As soon as we left Mercy and returned home, he went into the back yard and promptly decided to plop down in a puddle! I really couldn't blame him, but I was eternally grateful that he waited until after the photo shoot!

We have a multitude of "Golden Cleaning Devices" at The Big White House! A partial list might be...

*Various heavy-duty vacuums

*A variety of mops

*An institution level "blow dryer" to get at their undercoat

*A beauty parlor machine that "sucks in" Golden hair.

*A wand for the showerhead

*A number of 'Furminator' brushes

*A steam brush to condition while collecting the hair

*Various dry and wet shampoos and conditioners

*A nail grinder

...and the list goes on!

They are worth every moment spent 'on them' and 'with them' and I feel it is a privilege to be their Mama...we don't deserve dogs.

Today, the reporter asked some of the usual questions about the Goldens and then surprised me with a query that was unexpected.

"What do YOU get out of taking your dogs on Therapy Dog Visits?"

I paused for a few moments to give a full and honest answer...

"When I am at the end of the leash, I get to see these amazing animals make the world a better place. They bring smiles to those with tears in their eyes, comfort the sick, calm those who are frightened and remind people that there is so much good in this world. My heart is warmed as I witness their gentle kindness touch the lives of everyone they meet. That is a gift they send right up the leash into my very being."

So, bring on the muddy paws, the "Golden Glitter" and doggy drool...I embrace every part of them!