Day 893

Today, our Gus went to Norbella to do his magic. Our beloved Bethany (Activities Director) always makes our visit special. Today, she got right down on the floor to love our boy and Gus was on ‘Cloud 9!’

As we meandered through the group in Memory Care, the smiles were evident as Gus went from person to person. With one, he simply stands, another finds his head in a lap and he even curled up on someone’s feet. He seems to know just what each person needs and he masterfully offers exactly that!

Why is it that dogs can sense a need? Whether it is fear, sadness, loneliness or some other emotion, the Therapy Dogs move in and offer exactly what is needed. It’s a gift and they don’t even realize it. Bringing joy, comfort or humor, these four-legged angels deliver just what the doctor ordered!

A few years ago, Miss Lilly was walking around Mercy Hospital when we came upon a nurse. She looked just fine to me, but Lilly broke away from my side and stopped directly in front of her as she tried to pass. She looked down at our girl for a moment and then sat on the floor as Lilly snuggled into her neck. The nurse began to quietly cry as she simply hugged the Golden. Finally, she looked up at me and asked, “How did she know? I have had the saddest day and somehow she just knew I needed her.”

I wish I knew the answer to that question. I would love to be able to see beyond the facade people sometimes show the world. Perhaps, if I observe my Goldens as they work their magic, I will understand their gift. In the meantime, I simply watch from the other end of the leash and marvel at their ability to make this world a better place!