Day 20
5/31/22
This boy! If you look up devotion in the dictionary, you would see this picture! Ranger is one in a million dogs with a heart that is big enough to love everyone...even Gus!
Today, after Lilly visited our neighborhood elders, Ranger and I set off for the local hospital. After a brushing and a nail cut, this guy was ready to roll. He hopped into the Subaru and away we went!
First stop is always the front desk to see Daddy. Mac is the face you see (and the kindest face around) when you check in or need directions. Ranger can hardly control his wiggles when he approaches the desk. He also has to greet all of the volunteers and any patients who might be in line. Then around the desk to Daddy for a wild reunion. Of course, they only said good-bye about an hour before, but this big guy has such a love for his people.
After signing in, I made sure his bandana and hospital ID were in good order. Then, it was time to head out on our rounds. There are certain people who always seem to be on the lookout for the Therapy Dogs. We were stopped by those employees as well as new friends who were at the hospital to visit or check in. We would greet them and hand them Ranger's calling card with his picture front and center.
Next, we ALWAYS have to stop in administration to see our favorite employee. Actually, this man is one of the medical leaders at the hospital AND HE HAS TREATS! Today, he was eating breakfast and shared a corn muffin with Ranger. Quite the hit!
After many opportunities to share the love, we headed up to teach a class to a group of patients who are dealing with differing levels of anxiety. We walked into the group setting and Ranger worked the crowd. I always keep an eye out for anyone who might be afraid of large dogs (our boy in close to 100 pounds), but everyone seemed fine.
After greeting everyone at their seats, I sat near the front and Ranger laid down at my feet. The class deals with the benefits of animals and covers different avenues to add a service or comfort dog to their lives. Of course, we talk about access, insurance, etc. before I share stories about my own experiences volunteering with Arthur (my beloved first Therapy Dog), Lilly and Ranger as Therapy Dogs. Finally, they are encouraged to talk about pets they have, or have had, in their own lives.
By the time I started sharing some of the amazing Therapy Dog stories about my own dogs at the hospital and beyond, I had my eye on a young girl who had not shared much during the class. Suddenly, she stood up and approached Ranger as my Mommy eyes assessed the situation. She knelt down on the floor and then laid right down beside my boy. Ranger looked her right in the eyes for a moment and then rolled over on his back for a belly rub. His new friend spent the rest of the class right there with this wonderful, furry anxiety diffuser.
Often, I do not know the real story of the people we encounter. Of course, the dogs don't either. In the end, it doesn't matter. If they need us, we are there for them...especially if there is a belly rub in it for sweet Ranger!
