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While my dog’s in the yard for a final number one or two,
I rummage through my man purse for a quick review.
It seems we’re good, with all the required material:
Paperwork, identification tags, and antibacterial.
There is one last clean-up of the paws and teeth,
Including eyes, ears, and whatever’s underneath.
After loading the truck and taking our seats,
It suddenly hits me—I forgot the darn treats!
Mini bones in my pocket, we’re all set for adventure.
My pal beside me is looking forward to this joint venture.
With game faces on, we embrace today’s mission:
And that is to inspire a lighter, brighter disposition.
Reaching our destination, where parking places are few,
I finally find a distant spot off to the left of the I.C.U.
We walk across the parking lot through the sliding doors.
Entering the main lobby, with sparkling terrazzo floors.
Our first stop is a well-decorated office in administration.
After that, we take an elevator to the nurses’ station.
A small crowd gathers as we perform entertaining tricks,
While a nurse finds the patient list with just a few clicks.
The intensity suddenly rises as we enter the next room.
Hopefully, it’s not as bad as it looks—or as bad as I assume.
Amidst the noisy equipment and blinking colorful screens,
It occurs to me that I don’t know what much of it means.
But that’s okay; I am comfortable and content in my place.
Pet therapy is my purpose here and something to embrace.
I introduce myself and my dog, whose silly name is Pickles,
As the tension slightly subsides with joy and gentle giggles.
We approach the bed carefully, respecting privacy and space.
The family asks if Pickles can greet their loved one face-to-face.
Often, there are moments when there’s nothing I need to say,
And this is one of those times when I step back out of the way.
I let my dog take over now and work her magic potion.
She snuggles up instinctively, with her tail in nonstop motion.
This journey shows that reactions can’t always be predicted.
Our encounters are deeply moving and emotionally unscripted.
Gazing across the room, where every eye holds a tear,
Reveals the beauty of pet therapy and why I volunteer.
As we unwind with a final goodbye to all in this facility,
I hope we were good enough, giving the best of our ability.
Glancing down at the end of my leash, it’s comforting to see,
My four-legged friend is so happy; she’s smiling back at me.
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