Day 557

This girl was born to be a Therapy Dog! No matter where we go, Lilly will find the people who need her most and focus her love on them. Today was no exception.

Heading over to our newest venue in Champlin, we walked through the doors and her tail started wagging. It didn't stop until we got back into the car and headed home. She loves the people in this senior complex and kept pawing my leg as we waited for the activities director to come and let us in to Memory Care.

She was running a little late, so another employee explained that we were to go into Memory Care and start on our own. A bit daunting, but do-able, the door to our first stop was unlocked and we were off and running...literally.

First stop was Lilly's friend, Jeff, who walked constantly during our past visits. We were surprised to find him sitting by the door waiting for us. Lilly went right over to him and seemed to know how special it was that he was actually sitting! She quickly pranced his way and immediately placed her big, furry head in his lap. I watched as he petted her and looked right into those brown eyes. He actually carried on a one-way conversation with Lilly which was a joy to watch. This was a first! To actually have him sitting and interacting with my girl touched my heart.

Next, we went to a couple of rooms where the doors where open and welcoming. Miss Lilly worked her magic, but seemed to have a destination in mind. Walking down the hallway, my Golden stopped in front of JD's room and plopped herself down. I knocked and soon, a spry, inquisitive head peered out from a cautiously opened door. "OH! It's Lilly and her hippo-loving friend! Enter!"

We moved into the room and our hostess locked the door behind us! She was delighted and determined to have Lilly (and me) all to herself! We sat down and the conversation went something like this...

"I am ecstatic that you have arrived! I DO love a good visit with a fellow animal lover! You know, a Shaman once informed me that my spirit animal was a hippo. I LOVE hippos! Did you know they are the deadliest animal in Africa? Even though they are herbivores, they can still chop any living thing in half...even humans! Don't get between them and their watering hole or their babies...CHOP!"

I simply nodded frequently and at the right spots. She went on to regale me of her life with the Coast Guard. She described training search-and-rescue dogs (Dobermans) and the hand signals that went along with that particular job. Next on to her life in California as a hippy. (Those stories had my attention!) After twenty minutes, she was just getting started when Bethany (Activities Director) knocked on the door. Our friend cocked her head and smiled saying, "Should we let her in?" I told her it seemed like a good idea!

Off and running again, we visited some new residents and old friends. Lilly was perfect in every setting. I am so lucky to have her as my partner in this adventure!

Finally, saying our farewells, we loaded the car and started the engine. Reminiscing about my conversation with JD, I smiled, shook my head and wondered how much of it was reality. Well, there might be one way to find out! Pulling out my phone, I goggled, "What is the deadliest animal in Africa?" The answer was quick and decisive: HIPPOPOTOMUS!

Next time I visit, I think I will ask JD about some dog training advice for our Sammy!!!!!