Day 21

6/1/22

Today, I returned to our favorite senior home with Sweet Lilly (AKA "The Bone Collector"). She is definitely the alpha in our world and ALL the bones belong to her! Poor Gus and Ranger will let her choose the best bone, walk through the doggy door first and even give up their couch position if she wants to hunker down there.

Lilly is strong-willed, intelligent and inquisitive. As a Therapy Dog, her gift is to connect with others on a deep level. If someone is hurting, she will find them and offer comfort.

My favorite Lilly story happened a few years ago at the local hospital. We arrived, signed in and were met by one of the Volunteer Coordinators. She asked us to go down to Surgical Waiting where a crowd was forming at an alarming rate. A police officer was in surgery and friends, family and fellow officers had filled the waiting area and were now beginning to spill out the door. Lines were forming in the hallway as people talked softly, cried and tried to support each other.

Lilly and I approached the group and she began to comfort those in the hallway. I was surprised by her brief encounters as she only stayed a moment with each hand that reached out. This was such an unusual behavior for her as she always wants to ease sorrow or anxiety. However, this time, she was resolute in her goal to move down towards the waiting area and all I could do was pat an arm here and there or murmur a few comforting words.

My pup headed for the doorway of Surgical Waiting and then an amazing thing happened. There was a young woman standing there when Lilly approached. My golden girl went right up to her, sat down and started to nudge forward until the woman crouched down and put her arms around her furry neck. Lilly put her head on the lady's shoulder as tears flowed down on top of that golden fur. Someone leaned over and said with tears in her eyes, "That's his wife." We all stood by, dabbing at our eyes, as Lilly did her job. Dogs don't ask questions, they have no expectations...they simply love. What a gift.

I am so often humbled by my dogs when they are doing what they do best...offer love. It is such a privilege to be on the other end of that leash.