Moving in with a new roommate can be stressful, especially if it’s a human. All I’ve ever known is the dog pack, so there were adjustments. It was evident right from the beginning that Doc was establishing herself as the Alpha.

Alphas have lots of stupid rules. No going to the bathroom in the house, no chewing on the furniture, no nipping, no pulling feathers out of the pillows and the list goes on and on. Just when you think you know how you are suppose to act, off to puppy kindergarten classes you go. There you learn a whole new set of rules. I was only 10 weeks old, but I was already exhausted from all the things you need to know to function in polite society.

When I finally graduated from all my training, it was off to my new job. I started on Friday’s when I was five months old. I met patients and staff and became accustomed to all of the noises and daily routines. I liked it from the start. People brought me treats, dog toys, and rubbed my belly. But of course, who doesn’t love a puppy. I kept growing and learned to be a good therapy dog. I soon realized that the patients and the staff needed me. I provided comfort, comic relief and unconditional love.

Two years have passed since my birth and I am now a registered therapy dog. The relationship with Doc has developed into a special bond. We care for each other and  for those that need us. At the end of the day when I am curled up next to Doc, I sometimes think about the farm and the day that Doc came and picked me for this special life. Then, I drift off to sleep feeling content.