Charlie's New Job

Ever since I decided on my career path in speech pathology, I imagined having my very own therapy dog.  I never thought Charlie would be that dog because of his hyperactiveness when he was a puppy. However, he has calmed down so nicely with age and, ahem, a few knee surgeries so I thought I would give him a chance at this new job. Andy brought him on visits with one of his Hospice patients back in Vermillion and Charlie did well; but I still had my doubts.  So, for the past few weeks I have been doing some training refreshing with him on commands such as sit, stay, come, lay down, etc. to prepare.

Last week at work, a few patients at the longterm care facility mentioned how they were missing their dogs and pets from home. I promised them I would bring Charlie in for a visit to try this therapy dog job out.

 

I was a little nervous that Charlie would be nervous and too anxious in the facility.  Once again, he surprised me.  As soon as we met the first patient he sat down and put his head on her lap and wagged his tail.  It's as if he was saying, "Hi, I am Charlie and I am here to make you smile." 

 

Every patient loved him as we made the rounds. I brought some treats along for the patients to give Charlie when he was being a good boy, too.  It felt so good to see their faces light up when they were petting him. His head was held so high as they commented on how handsome he looked, how calm he was, and how well he listened.

 

We had such a successful and fun day together at work. It not only made my day more fun but it tired him out, too!  He is used to sleeping on the couch all day.  I am planning on the two of us being a therapy team for a long time.