Upon arrival at my mother-in-law ’ s home , my husband and I were astonished at how quickly Teddy charmed his “ Grandma ” — a self-avowed “ cat person .” Even when our mischievous rascal jumped on her bed , she reacted in true grandma fashion with an indulgent chuckle .
However , I shall never forget what happened the next day when we took Teddy with us to visit my father-in-law . He had resided in a long-term care facility since suffering a debilitating stroke . As we approached my father-in-law ’ s room , we saw Amy ( not her real name ), the woman from the room across the hall , walking toward us . Amy lived with an intellectual disability . Every time we visited my father-in-law , we made a point of greeting other residents . Most people returned our greetings , but Amy never did . We assumed that she was unwilling or unable to speak .
As we came closer to Amy , the most amazing thing happened . Amy smiled ! “ Oooh ! It ’ s a puppy !” she exclaimed excitedly . “ What ’ s the puppy ’ s name ? What does the puppy eat ? Can I pat the puppy ?”
Teddy , often slightly stand-offish with strangers , trotted up to Amy and uncharacteristically allowed her to fuss over him . Both Teddy and Amy were thrilled when I pulled some treats out of my pocket and showed Amy how to give them to him . The next day Amy was waiting for us . “ Hi , Teddy ,” she called confidently as she held out her hand for some doggy treats . Every day for the rest of our visit , the time Amy and Teddy spent together left Amy with a smile on her face . I am convinced that our intuitive little dog understood Amy ’ s loneliness , and I truly believe the love and acceptance he gave made a difference in her life .
My husband and I are reminded daily of the “ power of pets ” when we are greeted every morning by two wagging tails and two happy doggy “ grins .”
“ A home is not a home without a dog ” — yes , words on a dollar-store fridge magnet , but the truth of these words is forever inscribed on my heart .
Laurie Semler , ARTA member since 2012 and animal lover since birth , and her husband , Rainer , share their lives with two wonderful dogs , Kola and Olaf , adopted from Second Chance Animal Rescue in 2019 .
I always wanted to go dogsledding , but I pictured it going differently .
news & views WINTER 2020 | 45