21/9/2023

It was my first shift for the Delta Therapy Dog Program. We had to do a little bit of prep to make sure I was at my very best, this included a wash and brush to ensure my coat as in tip top shape and free of all the dirt and mess that I had found myself in the day earlier! Then hoomum made sure I got a good nights sleep.

The next morning I was ready to go! We packed up my treats, made sure I have my uniform on (my hoodad said I looked like a watermelon…I guess I kinda do!) and my hoomum made sure she had her uniform on too! We also made sure that I was wearing my special therapy dog lead, which was made by Native Collars, they make such beautiful biothane leads, harnesses and collars. We then ventured inner city, found a car park and took a nice stroll to our meeting place with the other volunteers. Once we were all assembled and met the key contact for our placement we made our way up to the offices. We were going to spend some time with staff as part of their wellness day.

Once we arrived, oh boy, there were so many people ready to meet us, it was very exciting! We had groups of people come through to meet us all to make sure we didn’t get overwhelmed, we were very supported and cared for. People took lots of photos of me, I may have gotten a little too focussed on my hoomums treats so she said next time we will do treats after my placement…I guess that is ok.

After lots of pats and cuddles, it was time to say goodbye to everyone, I was so tired but hoomum promised me nuggies if I walked back to the car with her. Once I got my nuggies it was time to have a nice long nap and reset my batteries.

We had an amazing time and saw the benefit of my visit on people. We can’t wait to go on another placement again soon!

As told by Nanook