Day 1275

Sweet Gus was exhausted at Mercy Hospital today. He must have interacted with at least 100 people and brought so many smiles. It is so unbelievable how many staff, patient and visitors react to my question about their day…

Me: “How is your day going?”

Multitudes: “It sure is going better now!!!”

Therapy Dogs do not have a clue about how they make this world a better place. They simply love and lean into the need their hearts feel on a visit. Some days are more draining than others and today seemed to hit our boy extra hard. When I stopped for a moment, “Gus Gus” decided he needed a snooze. I never ask the the Goldens to give more than they are able, so we headed home.

There have been times when I have extended a bit too far and I typically push myself beyond my limits. This is not particularly habit-forming, but it is always remedied by a “Mac foot rub,” a great book or time at the piano. The dogs don’t have those options, so I step in to protect them.

Others in my life will sometimes feel me nudge them past their comfort zone. Whatever the goal, I need to be careful to refrain from making it my own goal for them. People get tired or discouraged and only need a cheerleader instead of a task master. I find that to be a fine line that I trip over now and then.

The Goldens need me to advocate for them and pull them back before the stress is too much. Humans are different, but need a gentle push from time-to-time. Gentle push…not a harsh shove to achieve a goal! We all have our own speed and abilities that fall within our ability to move forward

Gus gently lets me know when he needs me to intercede. Ranger TELLS me what he needs for support and Sam is always one step ahead, so I follow! Loved ones fall into those three categories and so I am happy to do what THEY need!