In a heartwarming tale of service and companionship, a beloved therapy dog has retired. The dog spent nine years supporting patients at various hospitals in the U.K. She has helped many individuals throughout her life, but now she bids farewell to her long career.
Ruby, the therapy dog, is retiring after nine years of work
Ruby is a 10-year-old French Briard who worked as a therapy dog in Nottingham hospitals. She recently took retirement after bringing comfort and joy to countless human beings for nine years during their hospital stays. The canine served in various roles, from the high dependency ward to antenatal appointments. Consequently, Ruby has left a lasting paw print on staff and patients’ hearts.
A former patient welled up with emotion as she walked through Queen’s Medical Centre for the last time. She expressed gratitude to Ruby and her owner, Dale, for helping her during the pandemic through their visits. Another young woman did not miss the opportunity to thank them for their support throughout her antenatal appointments. In addition, she invited them to meet her newborn.
Ruby’s owner, Dale Buckland, noted, “The dogs are particularly useful with male patients … They all tend to be on their tablets or phones and not really chatting.” Continuing, he added, “The dogs come in, and they spark a conversation, so it stops the patients being socially isolated.”
Healthcare Assistant Georgia Wind also praised Ruby, saying, “Ruby brings such joy to the ward – it makes our patients smile, and that makes me happy.”
The French Briard played a vital role at the COVID-19 vaccination hub located at Forest Recreation Ground. She provided comfort to apprehensive youngsters facing the daunting prospect of needles.
Recently, the therapy dog provided support to a young patient who missed her furry friend and a paralyzed young woman in intensive care.
Barbara Cathcart is a Chief Executive of Nottingham Hospitals Charity. She stated, “We hope Ruby enjoys her well-deserved retirement and enjoys putting her paws up! We’ll certainly miss seeing her wagging tail around the hospitals.”
As a matter of fact, Ruby recently turned ten on December 28, 2023. This meant that it was time to retire her. Another dog, Bertie, will take her place and tend to the needs of the patients.
