Dogster

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I'm A Therapy Dog!

Working as a Therapist

After delays due to my stupid back legs I finally started my work as a therapy dog and I love it! Once a week I go to a facility for people with mental disorders of all types here, in my 'hood. They have a Thursday morning group called--get this--"CHECK IN WITH OLE"!! I finally get some of the recognition I deserve.

When I arrive I have a "sweeper" who sweeps my path to make sure all who will be present are comfortable with my presence. Some who initially weren't now attend my group! Then I fly up the stairs and dart to the room specially prepared for me. (I was recently upgraded to the room with comfy couches.)

Today I was greeted with lots of cheers when I arrived! It was the greatest! I made my rounds and got so much loving that I couldn't stop smiling!

My job is pretty easy. My duty is to help alleviate some of the stress the clients and staff may be feeling by being a fun, bright spot in their day. While they talk about what is going on in their lives to the group facilitator I go from person to person for admiration, some ear scratches and maybe a belly rub if they are really comfortable. I get so excited as we get near that I actually walk fast--something I don't do often--and perk up my ears. The receptionist gives me a great reception and always has lots of love for me. The staff stop by occasionally to meet me. I guess they've heard how great I am.

I'm into week four at this point. I've made some good friends. Like my friend with the walker with tennis balls on the ends! I love when she comes to my group! She laughs at how I try to steal the tennis balls. My mom gets embarrassed, but I really want those balls!

And not one person has said a word about my breed. Although not all people there are dog people, I don't experience any kind of breed prejudice. This is very refreshing for me and my mom, who's always telling me how proud she is of me and what a gift she thinks I am. She also says that after spending her life savings on fixing my legs, I had to find a way to "give back". Luckily she found me a job I'm good at and enjoy every minute of!