Lessons from a Therapy Dog: Healing, Trust & Living in the Moment

Introduction

Rosie came into my life as a rescue dog who couldn't settle in her previous home because of a couple of cats, one in particular, a black cat. She had been found living on the streets of Manchester 18 months earlier and was in a right state by all accounts. Her original name was Sophie, and her microchip had her registered in Leicestershire, but the chip details were way out of date, and her owners could not be traced.​

One day, one of my regular Reiki clients asked if I knew anyone who wanted a cocker spaniel and explained the issue with the cats and that they were looking to rehome Sophie, whom they had renamed Rosie. I saw her photo and instantly fell in love, and I also recognised her at a soul level—we had met before!​

Later that week, we went to meet her with our old cocker spaniel, Jazz. The meeting went well, and Rosie jumped in the back of the car and never looked back. In the early days, it became apparent that she had suffered trauma and abuse as a puppy. Injuries to her nipples, fear of men, fear of raised voices, fear of packages of any sort, fear of enclosed spaces. She inhaled her food instead of chewing it, a behavior obviously linked to living on the streets for a long time, not knowing where her next meal was coming from, but also maybe from those early days.​

She didn’t bark the first few months of being in her home, and then one day in the park, she started to bark—that was it, she had found her voice!​

Rosie wasn’t particularly fond of other dogs, but she loved people, apart from men. Over the years, with training and reassurance, she learned to accept them and even like or love some of them. She took a real shine to one of my regular, long-standing massage therapy clients whilst working with me as a therapy dog at The Full Spectrum Centre Limited, and Pete loved her too.​

Then came along Earth Angel David, a local vet she met randomly one Friday night. Another in a long line of locums she had seen at the practice we were registered at. She had been poorly all that year, and David booked her in for surgery on the Monday. All weekend, I had a bad feeling; I really felt we wouldn’t be bringing her home. On the day of the surgery, David spent a long time going through all the pros and cons and took some pre-surgery bloods. Bad news—her liver and pancreas were heading towards failure, so we took her home. David suggested herbal liver cleanse tablets, and after a while, her organs recovered. He became her vet, and we traveled all over the North West of England to see him—Liverpool, Manchester, Bolton, Southport, and finally Preston, where he opened his very own practice, Preston Vets. Rosie passed away on Easter Monday 2025, at home with 'Uncle David' and her family. She had never liked vets, always fearful and hiding under the seating in reception, but from the day she met him, she was calm in his presence, and she loved him, and I know he loved her.​

Despite all the trauma, all the abuse, and all the fear she had, she was so trusting and instinctively knew what people needed from her; she was born to be a therapy dog. She knew who needed to just sit and stroke her, she knew who needed a full-on cuddle, and she knew when someone just needed her to lay in her dog bed in the corner of the treatment room.​

She loved to sunbathe, take walks in the park, and she loved the beach. She loved Reiki, and she loved connection and contact; as long as her paw was touching you or you were gently laying your hand on her or stroking her, she was happy.​

She faced so many health battles in her 17 years and 5 months but always bounced back. Until this last time, her little body couldn’t fight anymore.​

She taught us so many lessons over the years…

Lessons from a Therapy Dog

1. Healing is possible, no matter your past

Rosie’s early life was marked by trauma and neglect, yet she blossomed into a beacon of love and trust. Her journey reminds us that with patience, compassion, and support, healing is achievable, and past wounds don't define our future.​

2. Presence is the greatest gift

In her quiet, intuitive way, Rosie taught us the power of simply being there. Whether it was a gentle nudge or resting her head on a lap, her presence brought comfort and peace, underscoring that sometimes, just being present is enough.​

3. Trust can be rebuilt

Despite her initial fears, Rosie learned to trust again, forming deep bonds with those around her. Her ability to overcome fear and open her heart teaches us that trust, once broken, can be mended with love and consistency.​

4. Embrace the simple joys

Rosie found happiness in the little things—sunbathing, beach walks, and gentle strokes. She reminded us to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures that life offers daily.​

5. Love unconditionally

Rosie’s love knew no bounds. She offered affection freely, without judgment or expectation, teaching us the true essence of unconditional love.​

6. Embrace the Power of Nonverbal Communication

Rosie had an innate ability to sense emotions and respond with a gentle nudge or a comforting presence. She taught us that sometimes, words aren't necessary to convey empathy and understanding.​

7. Find Joy in the Present Moment

Whether basking in the sun or enjoying a simple walk, Rosie reminded us to appreciate the here and now. Her contentment in life's simple pleasures encouraged us to slow down and savor each moment.​

8. Demonstrate Patience and Understanding

Rosie's gentle demeanor and patience, especially with those who were anxious or hesitant, showcased the importance of approaching others with kindness and understanding.​

9. Show Unwavering Loyalty

Through every challenge and triumph, Rosie remained a steadfast companion. Her loyalty was unwavering, teaching us the value of being there for others, no matter the circumstances.​

10. Lead by Example

Rosie didn't just provide comfort; she embodied it. Her calm presence set the tone in every room, illustrating that our demeanor can influence and uplift those around us.​

Rosie’s legacy is one of resilience, love, and healing. She not only transformed her own life but also touched the hearts of everyone she met. Her lessons continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the profound impact one soul can have.​

Forever in our hearts, Rosie. Thank you for being our teacher, healer, and friend.

Rosie’s Lullaby

Sleep, sweet girl, your work is done,
Your race is run, your dreams begun.
Soft as the breeze, bright as the sky,
You live in my heart, you never die.

Little paws and wiser eyes,
A thousand sunsets, a thousand skies.
You taught me love, you taught me grace,
You left your light in every place.

Rest, sweet soul, no need to roam,
Your love still wraps around our home.
In every breeze, in every sigh,
I hear your voice — a soft goodbye.

But not goodbye, not really so,
You’re in the winds, the stars that glow.
Sleep, sweet Rosie, safe and free,
You’re still right here, inside of me.