Day 226

12/27/22

Whenever I write, there is always a four-legged inspiration at me feet. Tonight, Sam is that muse.

We had a busy day "Therapy Dogging." It was a one of opportunities, surprises and connections.

Lilly and I made our way down to Walker Senior Residence and enjoyed a long visit with one of my Anoka HS teachers. He arrives at the appointed spot, Milk Bone Box balanced on his walker and ready for conversation. Lilly is all about the treats, but eventually settles in at his feet for a snuggle and nap. Situated by the elevator, we are often a lure for other residents to stop by for a quick Lilly Love and a brief chat. It is such a wonderful time.

Running home with Lilly, we arrive and switch over to Ranger for our next stop at Mercy Hospital. Before our departure, all four get a chance to explore the back yard and then it's the Cone of Shame for poor Gus, a huge kennel for Sammy and the couch for Miss Lilly. Dog TV is the channel of choice, so all are happy.

Ranger and I adorn ourselves with badges, bandana, lanyard, vest and treats. This boy knows I can't lift him into the car with ease, so has taken to standing at the back bumper until a temptation is thrown within. And we're off!

The hospital offered many opportunities to connect on this day. Our first stop is usually the Administrative Offices, but today we came to a screeching halt in front of two women dabbing their eyes. I tentatively asked, "Do you need a Therapy Dog? I happen to have one right here!"

The older lady then let the tears flow. While Ranger was working his magic, the younger woman explained that she and her mother were waiting for a procedure to be completed to find out why her father was bleeding internally. I sat with them for quite some time and shared a few hopeful stories from my own family's past. The wife thanked us when it was time to go saying Ranger's visit had been just what she had needed. I always ask for the first name of the patient and tell the family I will keep them close to my heart. David has been with me all day.

Next, we made the treat rounds and then headed over to the Heart Center. Stopping by the surgeons' suite to see a good friend, we approached the doors and realized there was a meeting "of sorts" going on within. Backing up (not always easy with a 90 pound dog), we were spied and invited in. The surgeon who did Mac's open heart was pretty happy to see Ranger. He told the pup to get a haircut and then proceeded to get down on the floor to share some Golden Love. This doctor is my hero and always humbles me with his humanness. He makes miracles happen on a daily basis and I owe him for saving the life of my husband.

Going up to 4 Heart, we approached a woman who was waiting to see her husband after surgery. She was so grateful to have Ranger there to visit until she could go back to the patient's room. It was amazing to see her entire appearance go from concerned to calm. Ranger is such a pro at this!

Off to teach a class at the Partial Hospitalization Program on the benefits of animals in our lives and then home to decompress. I know the dogs are exhausted from their emotional encounters and I tend to feel a bit spent myself. It's a good kind of tired for all of us.

I am always grateful for the ability and opportunity to share these Goldens with people who are sad, scared, lonely or ill. To brighten just one person's day would be worth everything and these dogs do it over and over. Once again, it is a privilege to be at the other end of the leash!