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In the quiet, therapeutic spaces where lives are gently mended and stories unfold, a unique presence often brought comfort and warmth: Facility Dog Tucker. Since 2014, Tucker has served as a dedicated canine co-therapist alongside Brenda, a Licensed Professional Counselor. We recently checked in with Brenda upon Tucker’s official retirement to share their story. 

The Unlikely Beginning 

Brenda’s inspiration to apply for a Facility Dog came from her previous experiences with two dogs that had provided support to her clients. She saw the power they had in her practice, but wanted an officially trained dog. When Brenda first met Tucker, he was still quite timid. Tucker, formerly known as Gunner, had been pulled from a shelter in the Pacific Northwest and worked for months with DBL’s trainers to learn his Facility Dog tasks. That meant Tucker, although wonderfully trained, needed some time to warm up. 

The Path to Trust 

Tucker’s initial timidity was a challenge. He was hesitant to engage, but Brenda and her colleagues provided the space and time necessary for Tucker to acclimate to his new role. DBL staff made several visits to help address specific behavioral issues, offering the option to return Tucker if things didn’t work out. However, Brenda’s determination with Tucker never wavered and everyone was committed to his success, working for 4 months to build trust and make the pairing work. 

Facility Dog Tucker with a client

Moments of Transformation 

Over his decade-long Facility Dog career, Tucker’s presence made a significant impact on countless lives. From casual encounters with strangers needing a bit of doggie love to helping clients feel safe enough to share their deepest stories, Tucker’s contributions were invaluable. 

One notable moment was with a client who was extremely anxious. Without prompting, Tucker left his comfy dog bed, approached her, and curled up next to her. The client’s visible relaxation was immediate, allowing her to finally share a burden she had carried for years. 

Reflecting on past reports, Brenda found numerous instances showcasing Tucker’s impact. In 2017, a new resident struggled to share her story, tearful and anxious until Tucker crawled onto her lap. His comforting presence allowed her to open up, significantly shortening the time needed to build a therapeutic connection. 

In 2018, a hallway encounter with a mother and daughter led to a profound breakthrough. The daughter, who had autism and rarely spoke during therapy sessions, talked the entire session when Tucker was present. Their subsequent appointments were scheduled specifically when Tucker could be there, illustrating his vital role in creating a safe, engaging environment for the client. 

Facility Dog Tucker’s winning photo in our 2021 photo contest

A Legacy of Love and Healing 

Over the years, Tucker worked with approximately 200 direct clients, touching many more lives along the way. His presence brought joy, warmth, and even a bit of comic relief to the therapy setting. Staff often referred to him as their favorite co-worker, finding solace in his company during difficult days. 

Facility dogs like Tucker make an incredible difference, Brenda noted.

“Facility Dogs warm hearts, make people smile, and bring joy to otherwise challenging situations. They help not only the clients but the staff as well.”

A Well-Earned Retirement 

Tucker’s retirement came when Brenda changed employment, moving to a setting where formal training or certification for a Facility Dog was not required. Despite retiring from his official duties, Tucker’s days remained filled with purpose and joy. 

“He’ll actually still be going to work with me,” Brenda shared. “Naps and belly rubs are his favorite activities regardless of where he is.” 

Tucker’s journey from a timid shelter dog to beloved Facility Dog who has impacted hundreds of people in need exemplifies the transformative power of patience, support, and love. Congratulations, Tucker, on your well-deserved retirement! Thank you to Brenda for sharing the love, joy, and support that Tucker has brought to so many during his career. 

 


Would your facility benefit from a highly trained Facility Dog? Visit dogsforbetterlives.org/facility-dogs to learn more about their work, and apply.

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