HALLOWEEN DOGGY STYLE

The elevator opened and one by one the wheelchairs emerged. They gathered around the lobby in great anticipation. The doggy’s were coming. And they did not disappoint! Each of them were in full costume mode; a lion, a witch, Dracula, the devil, a ballerina, Halloween itself with his adorable scarf, and a bat. The dogs were just as excited to be there because they were all friends. The team had grown to SIX dogs so there was quite a bit of commotion, chaos, and all together JOY!! With the big basket of candy in tow, they were off to see the residents. They started in the memory care unit…along the rehab station…and finally to our long term station. JOY…it’s what the dogs bring to those who may not have much joy. MANY of the residents and some of their families had specifically asked if the dogs could come to their room because they missed their “ best friends”. It was one resident who had wheeled himself down a week before just to be in the lobby where he heard laughter ( yes, it was me ). Before he left he asked for one thing; “ to hug a puppy”. He missed the love and comfort that his dogs brought him. Jessica and her team from “ The Foundation for Service Dog Support”, made sure that his request, and so many others, were met. While writing this blog, I looked out my window and saw my neighbor holding up his chihuahua to smell the beautiful roses. He was talking with his best friend and his best friend just looked at him with love. The thing I love about these four legged creatures is that they love unconditionally…just like Jesus. Thank you Jesus for being my best friend, who loves me regardless of my faults, fears, failures…thank you for these amazing creatures who bring JOY over and over again…Can’t wait to see them at Christmas!