How a Therapy Dog Impacts a Child's Life

Teri Wellbrock 1/14/191:37 PM

Image may contain: dog, outdoor, water and nature

I have been taking a little social media post-holiday hiatus. Catching up on life and such. Then today put life in perspective in a huge God-therapy way so I had to share.

Sammie was working her therapy dog gig this morning when a child was brought into the room. His tear-filled eyes captured my heart and Sammie instantly worked her therapy dog magic . . . kisses and hugs and snuggles and more kisses. She wouldn’t leave his side for nearly an hour. He and I chatted and chatted while Sammie loved him. With the purest love possible. Just heart to heart.

Afterward I discovered the horrific tragedy that had befallen this child only hours prior. I cried the entire car ride home. My sweet dog helped this little guy smile when smiling seemed an impossibility for these circumstances. She gave him an hour of reprieve from his heartache and trauma.

As a reward, I took her for a hike at Cincinnati Nature Center. And she smiled the entire hike.

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Teri WellbrockMember

Laura Pinhey posted:
How fulfilling it must be to come full circle by helping children who've experienced trauma as you yourself recover from the long-term effects of childhood and adult trauma. And what a beautiful way to involve your adorable Sammie. Thanks for your work and for sharing here, Teri.

Oh, Laura, my heart fills with joy every Tuesday as I watch Sammie work her therapy dog magic. I had worked in a mental health agency in the school systems helping children with trauma, bullying, etc., but found it was taking its toll on me emotionally. I eventually left that job out of a forced situation (God's grace at work) as I had to go to work for a company I owned that was suddenly flourishing. Now I find I am back working with children, but this time Sammie is the one engaging them and helping them find their calm. I am liking this role much better. A little easier on my heart and soul. These kiddos can't help but giggle with glee at all of Sammie's love.

Peace,

Teri

1/27/197:10 PM

Laura PinheyMember

How fulfilling it must be to come full circle by helping children who've experienced trauma as you yourself recover from the long-term effects of childhood and adult trauma. And what a beautiful way to involve your adorable Sammie. Thanks for your work and for sharing here, Teri.

1/26/192:08 PM

Teri WellbrockMember

Mary Giuliani posted:
Teri, I LOVE your post on your sweet dog Sammie’s work!!!

Best!!!

Mary

Thanks, Mary! We had our Tuesday morning therapy dog work again this morning and the little boy I referenced in the post was beaming with joy when he walked into the room to see Sammie. My heart melted all over again.

1/15/199:12 AM