Many years ago my family brought home a guide dog flunky named Buddy, a gentle loving dog who will tolerate all kinds of activity, especially from children. I have never had the time to tap into his therapeutic powers (except for our family of course.) Now that little E is in my life, I am putting Buddy to work.
I asked my African friends how they felt about dogs. They told me they had not had good encounters with dogs. Police dogs had chased them and kept them inside the camps while wild dogs had terrorized them and been used in guerilla attacks. Many dogs were used to hunt or contain livestock. They are not used to the fuzzy, loving pets that we keep in our homes.
Gingerly I brought Buddy out to meet the children. The adults stayed in doors and looked out the window. Little E was the one who bridged the gap. He smiled and explosively yelled out “Dock.” He leaned forward and kissed Buddy, and of course Buddy kissed him back.
The other kids came around and trust was established. One of the men came out and joined in the gathering.
The other kids came around and trust was established. One of the men came out and joined in the gathering.
E was then able to snuggle with Buddy and laugh and just be happy.
No one was afraid of Buddy after that.
To people on the outside it appears that E is severely handicapped and unable to communicate.
From my perspective, I see someone who is longing to get his voice heard and look people in the eye. His Mom knows …….. and Buddy knows.
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| "Dock" |
