We volunteer every day. Sometimes Charlie goes with me and sometimes Buddy. They each have their favorite jobs. But every now and then something happens that is such a breakthrough you will remember it forever. Today Buddy went to his usual teen group. For the first half hour we had all girls and one child was obviously uncomfortable. She did not want to sit close to the blanket and looked away. After a few minutes of the other kids talking about Buddy and petting him, the girl next to her said “She’s afraid of dogs.” They had met some of our other therapy dogs who visit there but they are all very large dogs. And this young girl never interacted with them at all. When Buddy walked in I could see it was a good chance to perhaps have her join in. Buddy was passed around and the girls loved cradling him and holding him in their lap. I picked him up wrapped in his blanket and told everyone he was my Burrito! They all laughed and I sat next to the child who was afraid. I asked if she wanted to pet him and I held him with his head away from her. She bravely, so gently touched his tail with one finger. Because he is so steady and didn’t flinch or bark or even move a hair, she got braver and then actually petted him. Then she asked if he could sit in her lap. All the other girls were so proud of her and not jealous or taking Buddy’s time away from her. She even smiled while holding the little dog. This was the most beautiful visit and I was so proud of everyone for this enormous team work.
Comentarios