King, with me by his side, makes himself at home lying on the floor right next to our friend sitting in her chair.
King held up his end of the bargain. He was a sweet, friendly, gentle boy on his first visit to our lovely English Setter friend on hospice and her equally lovely daughter.
King has had experience visiting folks in a nursing home when he first became a Bright Spot certified therapy dog, most of his time, though, has been spent in elementary schools working with young children. But, King proves himself over and over again. Wherever I take him to visit, he rises to the occasion, instinctively knowing just what he should do.
King gently greeted our new friend who was sitting up in a cozy chair in the living room area of her comfortable apartment. When her eyes set upon King, such a handsome orange Belton boy, her face lit up as bright as the sunlight streaming in through her window.
She was thrilled to see him. And, in his friendly, mannerly way, in went right over to her so she could pet his head and admire him close-up. Oh such a regal head and expression…. King seemed to know he was being admired and settled right in making himself at home stretching out on the floor. A few of our friend’s apartment neighbors stopped by to meet King. Not many have seen an English Setter like King before. Through all the admiration, King handled himself as a therapy dog should… well-mannered and engaging. I was very proud of my boy.
Next week, Lily will be back for her visit. She seemed a little sad as King and I took off without her.
When she saw King getting ready, she sat at the door, as much as to say, Take me, too. I’m so glad both Lily and King are doing well as hospice visitors. I’ve missed doing hospice work since James past away three years ago. These two can now carry on his special work.