This is our 109 year old patient, Amelia…. an amazingly alert lady. She’s lived through a lot, she told us today as she stroked James’ head which he rested in her lap. You’re such a nice boy, so well-behaved, she whispered softly to him. She continued to pet James and went on saying that she’s seen a lot of bad things happen in her lifetime – but I’ve seen a lot of good things, too, she was quick to add. So many new things.
Amelia’s daughter was there visiting when James and I arrived. She was helping her mother fold her laundry as they sat together talking. She told me that she lives nearby and visits her mother every day. She was pleased to learn that James comes to visit her mother. Yes, she confirmed, mother had lots of dogs through the years. She loves dogs. It’s so nice to have a dog come and visit her here.
By now, James was lying down by Amelia’s feet. He’s made himself right at home, Amelia laughed. He likes it here.
Not wanting to intrude on the mother-daughter visit for too long, we said our good-byes and Amelia said she’d be looking forward to seeing James next week. I’ll be here waiting! she laughed, as we headed out the door.
I have a therapy dog, also an English setter, named Scout. Being able to do this work of visiting, is such a privilege and a blessing. Scout is our 5th setter…and an orange girl, born in Little Rock, AR, now residing in Savannah GA. Keep up the good work! James is gorgeous!! We recently laid Micah to rest, Sept 6th, he had over 275 visits to his name.
Mary – thank you for writing about your therapy dog experiences with your English Setters. It is, indeed, a privilege to visit with our wonderful dogs and watch them as they bring such comfort and pleasure to those who need it most. I am sorry about your loss. Micah surely not only enriched your life but the lives of all the folks he visited. Take good care…