Birthdays are special days here at Bridgvale Farm. Today, May 1st, King and Lily are celebrating their 5th birthday. What better way for this pair of Bright Spot Therapy Dogs to spend their day than to be suiting up in their blue Bright Spot vests and heading out to do a job they love.
King headed to Hilltown Charter School this morning where the children in each of the classes sang Happy Birthday to him and gave him lots of hugs.
Each of his six readers for the day had plenty of interesting books to read to him: a history book on Paul Revere, a Sherlock Holmes mystery, a self-authored book All About Legos, and several dog stories.
When the individual reading time was completed, King was invited to join the circle to listen to “The Writing Group,” where two writers share their written work with the class and take comments, suggestions, and questions. This student read from her novel about a girl with autism and her service dog named “King.”
King received lots of extra loving from the Yellows and Greens (2nd and 3rd graders) today in honor of his Special Day.
Lily had her fun at Bay Path College on Tuesday where she was surrounded by college-age students petting and hugging her.
Lily soaks up this undivided attention that goes on for a straight two full hours as more and more students stop by on study breaks for a relaxing visit with Lily, and all of the Bright Spot Therapy Dogs.
For these “working” dogs who love their job, this was the perfect birthday celebration for them.
Their pal Annie has been at home scheming with me to prepare their birthday surprises here. Annie loves to plan and supervise events at home. Her menu selection was chunks of freshly cooked liver and a plate of broccoli pieces. Oh, I know… Not every dog’s choice for a party. But, Annie knows how to pick favorites that are healthy, too. Annie’s gift suggestions were: a new chew toy for King, and a fancy new collar for Lily to wear when she’s out visiting.
King and Lily are having a TERRIFIC day. Visits over, party treats wolfed down, and presents opened (wearing her pretty new collar, Lily immediately took the toy from King, who gently passed it over to her. He’s such a sweetheart). On top of all this, it’s SUNNY and WARM… and we’re heading outside for the rest of the day!