Lee Trawick
Reporter2@riverbendnews.org
The word hero is used in a wide variety of ways. Some may say it is often overused. However, jsonline.com. defines the word as a "Person of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his or her brave deeds and noble qualities."
A hero can be someone in an extraordinary situation with the courage to do extraordinary things or someone who has lived a life of an exemplary character who has influenced those who watch them. Heroes come in many forms; dogs have been called man's best friends for their loyalty and ability to read their owner.
There have been countless studies on how dogs help humans both physically and emotionally. Lafayette Nursing and Rehabilitation (LNR) relish the opportunity to bring joy and healing to its residents. In December 2021, LNR welcomed Teresa Whatley to their team as the Activity Director. As she was trying to gauge the residents, she asked them what they would like to see or what they thought could help them in January. A resident recommended that they would like to have four-legged furry animals visit them. Whatley jumped at the opportunity; she and the staff joined to make that happen. Since then, LNR employees Marissa Goff, Kayla Smith and Whatley have brought their dogs to LNR twice a month. The residents get to meet and hang out with Goff's golden retriever named Hazel and Smith's labradoodle named Luna; joining them is Whatley's bulldog named Dawg.
Science has proven that interacting with a friendly dog reduces cortisol levels through oxytocin release. Petting a dog can decrease stress hormones, regulate breathing and lower blood pressure. Dogs are essentially therapists with fur; they have excellent listening skills and won't judge you or talk back.
Golden retrievers are traditionally known as one of the best therapy animals because of their intelligence, affection and compassion towards others. Golden retrievers are known to be very active and do not do well alone, similar to some people. Perhaps this is why golden retrievers are so affectionate; they are grateful for the companionship of others.
Labradoodles are also one of the best therapy animals as their personality is known for being happy and warm to others and loyal to their owners. In addition, they are highly intelligent and, in the medical field, they are the ideal companion for those with autism, physical disabilities, depression and many other clinical issues.
A bulldog is also a great therapy dog. While many may believe bulldogs are unpredictable and dangerous, bulldogs are very loyal and observant. Being observant is what makes them excellent therapy dogs. Other breeds want to play fetch and run; a bulldog's makeup is geared more for obedience and focuses more on its owner's well-being.
Hazel is a six-year-old golden retriever brought into the Goff family as another family member. Little did they know, Hazel would be the healing source for the residents of LNR. Hazel walks the halls of LNR with a calm, mother-like demeanor to check on everyone and ensure everyone is happy. She visits residents in their rooms and connects with them as if they have been lifelong friends. She rests her head on their laps to show affection; a gesture returned by residents with smiles as they run their fingers through her fur.
Luna is a three-year-old labradoodle full of life and spunk. She was brought into the home of the Smith family as another member of their family. Luna provides joy to the Smith family, so when she was asked to bring her joy to the residents of LNR, she was excited. Her happiness is felt by everyone she encounters; the residents can't help but smile when Luna comes to visit. Luna likes to see everyone and put her paws on residents' laps and beds. She is always welcomed with open arms.
Dawg is a four-year-old bulldog who joined the Whatley family as another family member and protector of the family. Although Dawg, by nature, looks over the Whatley family, his playful nature may disguise his ability to observe the room and size up everyone. While he is as playful as a puppy, he is still a protector, not in an aggressive way; but in a safe reassurance presence like a father to a family. Then, when Dawg visits, everyone is pleasantly surprised at his demeanor and attention to detail with the residents. Dawg comes across to the residents as a puppy while playing the role of comforter and protector.
While Hazel, Luna and Dawg may have come from three different backgrounds and families, they were thrust into a cause that proved themselves invaluable heroes, for those who need comfort, joy and security. The three furry heroes have never been trained, and their owners have never been taught, yet they were given a gift that the residents of LNR will forever be grateful. Hazel, Luna and Dawg have forever left their paw prints on the residents of LNR and will continue to answer when called.
