Chance, a remarkable rescue dog, is making a profound impact on the lives of others through his work as a therapy dog at Shriners Children’s Lexington hospital. His journey to becoming a therapy dog is a testament to resilience and compassion.
Chance’s life took a dramatic turn when he was discovered in a dire state, starving and wounded by a bullet lodged in his shoulder. Camp Jean Rescue stepped in to provide him with the necessary medical care and love, although his front leg couldn’t be saved. To address the damage from the bullet wound, veterinarians had to amputate Chance’s left front leg, collarbone, and shoulder.
Despite the challenges, Chance adapted quickly to his new reality and captured the heart of an adopter. Six weeks after his amputation, Andrea White, a former nurse at Shriners, decided to take him in. Recognizing his gentle nature, intelligence, and obedience, she embarked on a journey to get him certified as a pet therapy dog.
Together, Chance and White completed therapy pet training through Love on a Leash, and Chance became a certified therapy dog. His role at Shriners Children’s Lexington involves visiting children with limb differences, much like his own. These visits often take place in clinic exam rooms, where Chance’s presence lights up the faces of the children, their parents, and even siblings. Curiosity about his story and how he lost his leg is natural during these encounters.
Chance’s eagerness to please and his excitement about “going to work” make him a delightful companion for kids navigating life with limb differences. Families are equally thrilled to spend time with him, finding a unique connection. Emily Yost, whose son is a prosthetics patient at the hospital, shared how her son had a profound and relatable experience with Chance, asking many questions and expressing compassion.
Hospital employees also recognize the positive impact of Chance’s visits. Beth English, a certified therapeutic recreational therapist at the hospital, noted that Chance’s presence helps alleviate anxiety and stress during lengthy prosthetics clinic visits. Patients and their families eagerly anticipate the joy that Chance brings to their day.
When Chance isn’t on duty, he enjoys spending time with his human mom, Andrea White, and his rescue dog sibling, Sadie.
White hopes that Chance’s heartwarming story will inspire animal lovers to support therapy dog programs, emphasizing their presence not only in hospitals but also in nursing homes, schools, airports, libraries, and various other settings where their comforting presence can make a significant difference.
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