Day 1114

This boy is such an amazing ‘Therapy Dog’! Today, at Mercy Hospital, he was proving that there is so much good in the world. Staff, visitors and patients all fell under his “Golden charm!”

Shortly after signing in, a slightly frantic woman at the elevators stopped us and said she was preparing to go up to her husband’s room. He was in the ER all night and she didn’t know what she would find. We promised to visit later. Before heading home, we went up to his floor and asked if he could receive visitors. When we were given permission, we headed to his room.

Entering any room, I always ask if they like dogs. The patient in the bed actually teared up and told me he had two Goldens of his own at home. He went on to explain he needed a life-saving procedure and he wasn’t sure he wanted to go through with it. His wife had a different idea, so they had been discussing it at length.

By now, Gus had snuggled his head up in the bed and the Golden charm was shining. We talked about his two Goldens and how devoted they were. Stories continued and his love for the dogs was evident. I finally said, “I truly believe your dogs would side with your wife. They must love you so.” He admitted that they were his babies and he better go through with the procedure so he could go home to them.

I believe that things happen for a reason. Gus reminded him of his own Goldens and that seemed to help him decide to fight on to reunite with his pups. Gus actually ‘kissed’ him goodbye before we left and we made our exit. This time, I was the one who teared up.

We never know when serendipity will give us the opportunity to change a life. Grab those moments and embrace the miracle that you were in the right place at the right time.

Gus had no clue that he might have changed a life today. His goodness simply allowed him to share his beautiful soul with someone needing just that. I am in awe of what happens on the other end of the leash I get to hold.