Canine connection: Therapy dog brightens day for Oklahoma City nursing home residents

Human relationships are not the only types of friendships a person can build. The bond between and animal and a person is one that cannot be explained just endured. J.R. Cook experienced that first hand after a near death experience. Cook had a heart attack that nearly killed him and placed him in a nursing home. Jake,was just a puppy when he came into Cook’s life. As Jake grew, so did their bond. Cook doe not refer to himself as Jake’s owner. Their relationship is something much more. Now a 4-year-old dog,Jake works as a therapy dog in a nursing home to spread the love that he gives Cook daily with others who can use a smile.
Cook was not the only one who has experienced the love and affection from Jake, Julie Tudor, has multiple sclerosis that she was diagnosed with at the age of 17. Now 46 years old, Tudor lives in the Tuscany Village Nursing Center in Oklahoma City. Although Tudor can no longer speak, and her vision has declined, she can still hear and mouth words. Her visits form Jake are what brighten up her day, says her mother. Jake hops up on a chair next to her bed and puts his head down next to her shoulder.
Jake is more then just a therapy dog, he is more of a friend that visits those who need something to brighten their day.

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5 Responses to Canine connection: Therapy dog brightens day for Oklahoma City nursing home residents

  1. ariellearmenti says:

    I love stories like this because I really think the powers that animals have are often overlooked. Sometimes people just need company, not necessarily to be talked to or listened to, but just company. Someone to pleasantly share the silence with, and I feel as though that’s an animal’s strongest point. Sometimes a person may feel uncomfortable with a volunteer who is essentially a stranger, coming into their room and sitting with them or holding their hand, but the incredible thing about animals, is that while it may take an extended amount of time for a person to feel comfortable with another person, it can only take minutes for someone to be comfortable with an animal.

  2. jbonder21 says:

    This is an awesome post, because I know pets can be a man or even a woman’s best friend. This is an inspiring story about the man, the woman, and the dog, because a companion can always help somebody in a time of need.

  3. ayacovelli says:

    I love how you point out that a human relationship isn’t the only type of relationship that there is. The bond with an animal is just as strong. This is inspiring with what one dog is able to do. The comfort and joy that he brings is remarkable. For people who do need therapy dogs, they’re lucky not only just to have them, but they’re lucky to have each other.

  4. themasqueradequeen says:

    I, unfortunately, do not live with my dog. My boyfriend and I got him when we were living together and later I had to move back home for reasons. My dog stayed with my boyfriend and it hurts me that I don’t get to see him everyday. When I do, though, he always makes me laugh even when he’s doing something he shouldn’t. For example, tonight, he jumped on the counter and stole bread. When he saw I was coming to get it from him he ran and he would not give it up. As frustrating as it was, it was so adorable. I laughed after I scolded him, but he gives you those puppy eyes that melt your heart.

    Animals and humans have a special bond, and it’s one of the best friendships to have, in my opinion.

  5. jennadams9 says:

    I love hearing about therapy animals performing a job well done. Animals can be some of the most open, honest, and loving creatures on Earth, especially dogs. It’s the kind of connection people in nursing homes truly need.

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