I worked in the nursing home in my town for over six years before I left. I enjoyed my job and enjoyed my residents in the Special Needs unit. This locked unit contained Alzheimer's residents. It was very hard for me to leave. Besides my love for the residents, there was on particular person I was really going to miss. It wasn't a resident or a staff member. It was the therapy dog,Casey.
I briefly held a position as the Activities Coordinator in 2006. On my first day as director, The administrator had me make a huge decision. She had brought a dog that formally lived in a shelter. I was to decide if this dog had the qualities needed to live in the unit. Casey and I immediately bonded. This was a very strong bond. Casey knew several tricks and the residents at the time enjoyed and loved her tremendously.
When I no longer held the Activity Coordinator position, Casey became my buddy on the night shift. She would do bed checks with me. We would check on the residents together. She was always by my side. If she heard one of the residents get up in the middle of the night she would let me know. If one of the residents were sick or about to pass, she would not leave their side. She was an amazing dog and great for the unit. This meant I had to leave my buddy.
It only took four months after I left for the new administrator to get rid of the dog.Fortunately, a friend of mine contacted me before she went back to the shelter and was destroyed. We now have a new addition to our family. I have two other dogs and they instantly accepted her into our family. I am so happy to have Casey part of my life again.She is amazing dog .Now my family feels complete.
Aww this is a great story. I love animals. I get so attached to animals as well. I bet that having Casey there during the night shift and by your side was very comforting. There is nothing like having someone or something by your side, especially through the night to keep you company. I'm so glad that you were able to add Casey to your family. Congrats!
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