Second Therapy Dog Observation

Boris and His Daddy
Therapy Dog Observation #2
11-11-11

On Friday, Veteran's Day, DH decided to go with Boris and me for our second Therapy Dogs, Inc. observation visit. I snapped this picture of them sharing a quiet moment before we entered the assisted living facility we visited.


The set-up for this observation was great and, frankly, better than in an acute care hospital. The residents were brought to a central location, so we knew if they were there, it was because they liked dogs. In the hospital, you never know if the patients like dogs, have just gotten bad news or much of anything else. It's difficult to enter a patient's room under these circumstances. 


We knew that the dozen or more residents were definitely animal lovers. They adored Boris and loved seeing all the dogs (there were a total of four, but none as spectacular as our boy!). We spent 90 minutes visiting. All the credit goes to BoBo (our nickname for Boris) who was as-good-as-gold and made a lasting impression on the people who met him. 


Boris is great with people and other dogs. Each dog was very well-behaved, but I think Boris - all pride aside - was the very best at making contact with the residents; the need for interactions with humans is an integral part of the Samoyed breed.


The most touching visit was with a 91-year old veteran of WW II. He is a highly intelligent, articulate and social person. When I asked if he was a veteran and then thanked him for his service to our country when he replied on the positive, he broke down and cried, telling me how the government keeps making the same mistakes over and over and asking how many more people will have to die before we stop this. It was difficult for me to keep my cool as I wanted to break down and cry myself. I put my arm around him, let him talk and compose himself. I asked him if we could come back and visit him. He said, "I'd really like that." Then I told my friend, Maddie, who goes to Mass at this facility every Saturday, that she needed to sit next to him at Mass because he needs some extra care right now. 


It was wonderful having DH with us. Boris was very happy his Dad came along! When I was talking with the veteran, DH came over to take Boris then started circulating and talking with the elderly people. It was very heartwarming to see him do this. I was so proud of both of my "boys" for the joy and comfort they brought to these residents. 


Once again, Boris passed with flying colors. One more observed visit next Wednesday to Mercy San Juan Hospital, then we will be an official Therapy Dogs, Inc. team! 


Onward with gratitude to every veteran and active military person for our freedom. We will never forget their sacrifices.