Doc
By Diahann Garner;
Doc was an abandoned throw away pup who ended up in a shelter and was a day away from being euthanized because nobody gave him a second glance. He was only a year old. I was volunteering at the shelter at the time walking the dogs and something in him called to my heart. I would never have imagined that this would be my dog. But he chose me. And I am so glad he did. I knew almost immediately that this rescue dog had the potential to be a therapy dog. None of my other dogs were suited for it, as they too were rescues, but dealing with previous abuse and neglect issues that did not make them exactly the right candidates for the job. But Doc is just perfect for it. He was born to make people happy and laugh with his giant pumpkin head and silly grin. In thinking about how Doc and I could best serve the community as a therapy team, I had the opportunity to drive by Boys Home of the South one day. Something just clicked in my mind. It was a match made in Heaven!
Doc still has his “puppiness” about him. He is very enthusiastic and goofy and LOVES LOVES LOVES kids. He really enjoys visiting the boys at the Boys Home and they always look forward to our visits. The kids and I discuss all kinds of dog things – from training issues to feeding and caring for dogs. We also talk about life in general, and about how everyone is feeling. Doc really helps them to open up. I use Doc to teach them about the stereotypes and stigmas the Pit Bull breed has to overcome due to ignorance and misconceptions. We also do nose work with Doc in the gymnasium. It is fun for the boys, but most fun for Doc! He loves finding the treats. So many of the boys have pets of their own and they miss them so much while they are living at the BHOTS. Doc is kind of a substitute pet for them. As one little guy proudly proclaimed on one of our visits, “Doc is really OUR dog !”
Yes, yes he is.