George entered the staff room for the last time earlier this month and was greeted with fanfare by all his friends. It was a bittersweet moment.
George, a 14-year-old Shih Tzu with a gentle personality, is a master of his own.
Burlington Humane Society (BHS) apy dog since early 2016. He began his term with Barlow Long making visits to his home in his care and spreading his special love and companionship to the residents. His dedication and youthful energy later led him to expand his horizons to include West Oak Village LTC.
But sober, George's favorite place to visit was Star Lane, part of Central West Professional Development Services' assisted living. There, George's ears perked up every time a woman cried out, “Oh, I love him!” He did it over and over again. Apparently George was quite fond of women! George proudly wore the Burlington Humane Society's Pet Therapy Bandana and was recognized wherever he went.
He particularly enjoyed the visits he made with his best friend Winston, a kind-hearted golden Labrador who is also a member of BHS's pet therapy program.
This unlikely duo strutted the halls of long-term care facilities together, much to the delight of seniors wherever they went.
Sadly, Winston passed away during the coronavirus pandemic lockdown. It will be nearly two years before the suspension of pet therapy programs is lifted and therapy dogs are allowed back into nursing homes and assisted living facilities. But now George was alone without Winston, and the visit just felt different.
George was getting older and needed to take his career in a different direction. Fortunately, he quickly found a new field of service. The pandemic lockdown has taken a toll on all walks of life, not just the elderly. People from all walks of life were feeling stressed, anxious, and lonely. And the benefits of pet therapy have become widely known.
George was invited to join IKEA's employee mental health initiative and never looked back.
Regular visits by our staff will prove to be just what the doctor ordered. The staff were overjoyed and looked forward to seeing their little buddy take the stress of the day off his face and put a smile on his face.
Then, during the holiday season, George experienced a decline in his health and after eight years of service, he realized he needed to take a step back. It's time for him to take off the leash and put his front paws up. Yes, I am retiring. But a final farewell visit to IKEA with all his friends was a must.
It was a fun day as everyone appreciated everything George had done over the years and knew it was time to relax. This little gentleman will be sorely missed.
If you would like to join Burlington Humane Society’s pet therapy family, please contact us at www.burlingtonhumane.ca.
We are always looking for pets like George to spread joy to people in need.
