Day 596

The first rule of any Therapy Dog handler is to be aware of your dog's needs at all times. Are they thirsty, tired, nervous and a host of other behavioral displays come first in any visit. There have only been two times when removing a Golden from a situation was deemed necessary. Almost ALWAYS, my observations of the pups has been absolutely positive and heart-warming...today was no exception.

We were visiting with a Viet Nam veteran down in the Physical Therapy portion of the hospital. Ranger was being attentive to the gentleman when, all of a sudden, he veered off towards an approaching figure. Immediately, my attention was directed at the staff member due to Ranger's unusual behavior. I needn't have worried as I watched the scene unfold before me. The lady, who had her arms opening wide towards my big boy, was not a threat. Ranger headed into the embrace with a wagging tail and smiling face. However, as I took a moment to watch the interaction, I realized she was crying. Tears were falling on Ranger's head, but he stayed right there.

She couldn't explain immediately, but took her phone out to show me her own dog. Finally, she was able to tell me that she had lost this 14-year-old boy yesterday. The veteran, two physical therapists and a nearby patient moved closer as we shared the pictures and tears filled my eyes. I was not alone with that response as others dabbed their eyes and shared their own stories of loss. Ranger never moved from her side.

Eventually, the tears stopped as the stories moved towards wonderful memories of the good times. At one point, the lady even talked about adopting another pup who might need her love. By the time we parted ways, all of us were smiling...even Ranger's new friend.

As we went our separate ways, I marveled at what had just taken place. Six strangers had just bonded in one of the deepest ways possible. There was anguish; we all responded with love, and left each other richer and wiser. What an amazing experience...unscripted, unexpected and now part of the stories of our lives. Thank you, Ranger, for allowing me to hold that leash.