Day 718

Lilly and I headed over to one of our favorite senior homes today. Starting in Memory Care, all went well until someone decided that Miss Lilly was their dog. I tried to see it through my Golden's eyes and heart...

Lilly: "Mommy! These people are so nice and I sure am loving those scratches!"

(Suddenly, a wheelchair approaches at the speed of light. Screeching to a halt, the normally sweet driver DEMANDED that I hand over the leash! She grabbed the collar with an iron grip, so I released the latch and steared Lilly away. Realizing her confusion, we decided to slowly back away and visit other residents.)

Lilly: " I can see what Mommy is up to! That nice lady sure had a strong grip on my collar, but we got away. Now the nice gentleman is scratching my ears ..hmmmmmm. Oh oh, Mommy!!! Wheelchair approaching FAST at your 6 o'clock!"

Our lady in the wheelchair was zigzagging through the crowd at a frightening pace! Just when it looked like a tug-of-war was inevitable, two things happened. First, the Activities Director jumped in and started pushing the wheelchair backwards with loving words. Second, another resident, a former Coast Guard veteran took a stand. She knew karate and wasn't afraid to use it! She shouted, "Stand behind me! I will protect you!" Taking a threatening stance, she placed herself between Lilly and the rolling resident.

Lilly: "This is fun!! I wonder if there will be treats after the show?"

We escaped and all was well! Whew! I did feel sorry for the little lady who thought Lilly was her dog. I would behave the same way if someone tried to take one of my Goldens!

When we left, I gave the Activity Director a big hug and told her she had saved the day!!!

Lilly: "All in a day's work! Therapy Dogging isn't for the faint of heart!"