Cora's Magic

Cora says for a happy life, stop and smell the flowers!

Cora and I visited Mayo Clinic Scottsdale location today.  The facility is loaded with the history of the organization, but this one picture on the wall caught my attention.  The caption above the mural says "Unhurried examination of each patient".  I got to thinking about when Cora greets patients and how she chooses how long to maintain that visit.  I think she realizes the need that each individual has and doesn't "hurry" until the visit is comforting.  Florence Nightingale would have loved having a therapy dog!

Therapy Dogs are like seedlings in a Healing Garden for patients and their families. 

Today, Cora worked so hard keeping patients and their families entertained and comforted that after her 2 hour visit, she simply laid down and took a well deserved nap.  People often say, "Oh, she's there just to pet".  But in reality, she is there in so many different realms.  She's the entertainer, doing her little tricks.  Need a tissue, just say "achoo" and she'll retrieve one for you.  She's the comforter, sitting snugly against the legs of a patient awaiting treatment.  She's also the healer, sharing her spirit and energy with anyone that reaches out to touch her.  Heeling to heal is her motto.  Close your eyes Cora, a well deserved "cat nap" is in order.

Few words are needed when Cora visits someone in need of comforting.  Being a therapy dog means simply being there for that moment to ease fears, lessen anxiety or make eye contact with those that are searching for hope.  One can only guess what Cora's thoughts are during her visits, but it's clear by the smile and gentle touch on Cora's head what our friend is feeling.  Unspoken words, priceless!

Cora shows off her reward today after a long visit with patients at Mayo Clinic Hospital.  As a handler of a therapy dog, my reward comes when I see the smiles on the faces of patients that we encounter, especially in the Chemo/Rad department.  That being said, everyone is rewarded that is involved in Animal Assisted Activities.  The patients benefit by being comforted, Cora benefits from the extra love and attention that is showered on her and I benefit knowing that we have brought a little joy into their day.