Inside this Article:
Link’s Journey to Becoming a Therapy Dog
When volunteers from Fidos For Freedom, a well-known service dog organization, spoke about their work during an animal science meeting in 2010, I was immediately intrigued. The idea of training a dog to help others resonated deeply with me, and I knew that if I ever got another dog, I’d train them to be a therapy dog.
Meet Link: The Gentle Giant
In 2011, our family welcomed Link, a large standard poodle, into our home. Despite his imposing size, Link has always had the heart of a toy poodle—gentle, loving, and endlessly patient. We originally got Link for my daughter, who was going through a tough time in high school. Little did we know that this tiny puppy would grow into a therapy dog who would change our lives forever.
During family gatherings, Link’s calm and friendly nature shone through. While other dogs might have been overwhelmed by the noise and excitement, Link remained unfazed, happily playing with children. That’s when I realized—he had the perfect temperament for a therapy dog. In 2015, I had him evaluated, and he was accepted into the Fidos For Freedom therapy dog program.
Therapy Visits: Bringing Comfort to All
Our therapy journey began with a variety of visits to determine Link’s preferences. While he thrived during visits to schools and daycare centers, he didn’t enjoy the quieter environment of nursing homes where he wasn’t getting as much interaction.
At work, I proposed the idea of bringing therapy dogs to the office. MedImmune (now AstraZeneca) embraced the idea, and it quickly became a monthly tradition. Link loved these visits—he got to meet lots of people, receive plenty of attention, and enjoy a few tasty treats.
One of the most meaningful moments occurred during a hospital visit. I took Link to post-surgery and palliative care rooms, where we met a man who was unable to move much. He was overjoyed to see Link, and as he petted him, he shared with us that during their time together, he had felt no pain. This moment highlighted the profound impact that therapy animals can have on improving emotional well-being.
Link’s Fun Facts
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Link hates getting wet in the rain and needs some convincing to go outside on rainy days.
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He communicates his needs with three distinct barks: one for hunger, one for thirst, and one for when he needs to go out. Other than that, he’s almost silent.
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Link gets car sick if he’s not sitting in the middle of the back seat facing forward, so we made sure our car was comfortable for him on every journey.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Love and Care
Link’s journey from a playful puppy to a beloved therapy dog is a testament to the power of love, patience, and the bond between humans and animals. His work as a therapy dog has touched countless lives, from helping children overcome their fear of dogs to providing comfort to patients in hospitals. His gentle spirit and unwavering love are proof of the incredible healing power of animals. We’re so proud of Link and grateful for the joy and comfort he brings to so many.
Want More Heartfelt Pet Stories?
👇 Click below to explore more real stories about rescue, remembrance, and the pets who changed us forever:
Emmy’s Story: A Journey of Love and Medical Miracles
Chicken Little’s Journey: From Research Hero to Family Member
Meet Paris: Our Little Jack Russell Bundle of Joy
Plop and Dadu: A Golden Retriever’s Story of Love, Loyalty, and Growing Up Together
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