"TODAY..... " A Therapy Dog's Mission

Today.....

The car engine turns over; our journey begins.

Today we will be more than family pets;
Today we will wear our vests and have a short leash;
Today we will be a friend to everyone we meet;
Today we will wag our way into a patient's life;
Today a stranger will reach for us in delight.

We will be stroked by someone who fears the future;
We shall look into eyes filled with boredom;
We will listen to sad stories;
We will cheer someone and offer a comforting paw;
We will transform suffering into joy;
We will offer wet-nose kisses to those who want it.
We will cuddle a lonely person;
We will "stand-in" for a patient's beloved pet;
We shall bring relief from suffering and pain.

For a short time we will soothe and calm;
for a brief moment we shall lift someone's spirit;
For this one hour.......
We will bring comfort to those we visit.
....because we are visitation dogs.

written by Dottie Burke