For the last six years or so, Jasper becomes a regular visitor to a retirement home located a stone’s throw from where we live. He has brightened the lives of residents with joy, warmth, and laughter. Over this time, we’ve formed deep relationships with a lot of them, to whom they have even told some very moving stories about their own beloved pets. Pet therapy for seniors has such a profound impact, and Jasper, with his gentle, calm nature, has become a great favorite with the residents. He adores his visits as if he were right at home among friends made long ago.
One of Jasper’s most touching achievements is that there is a woman who has been scared of dogs, especially German Shepherds, since childhood when she was bitten. Although terrified, she has reached out to stroke Jasper twice–what an impressive thing for someone so petrified! There are many a few days when her fear is so overwhelming that when Jasper is in the lobby, she cannot set foot into it herself. But for the most part, that has melted away as he has gained recognition among many former dog-phobes who’ve been cared for with relentless patience and gentleness over time. Nevertheless, I believe it always seems overpowering, some days; she can’t set foot into the lobby while Jasper is there.
Today is our next-to-last visit and will be the day to share the sad news to the residents about Jasper’s health problems and his inability to continue in his regular visits. It will be just awful–they love Jasper and have looked forward to his visits all week long. It hurts to think he won’t be there anymore. What makes it worse is that Jasper feels just as they do about his visits–he loves these visits just as much as they do. Today is a bittersweet goodbye.
I love you, my sweet boy, with all my heart…
