Rose was matched with Assistance Dog Teddy in October 2023. She recently shared the following update:
I knew I loved Teddy before I met him. Really, I did. A few weeks before NEADS called to let me know they had a match for me, I saw a photo of a black lab on their Instagram and thought, “He’s the one!” It was Teddy. After I found out I was matched with Teddy, I realized I had not only been drawn to him from the Instagram post but also when I met him (twice!) on campus when I came for my interviews. I even had a picture of him on my phone from one of those visits! It was meant to be.
Since we’ve finished training, Teddy has supported more than 60 individuals in my private practice, Holistic Mind Spa, has visited schools to support college students, visited multiple mental health programs, attended trauma related trainings, provided athlete support during weightlifting meets, and has even been involved in the Worcester Theater Arts Program, supporting individuals and actors during tough performances that touch upon mental health topics.
One of my favorite memories with Teddy was visiting a day program for folks with severe developmental disabilities. A woman, typically unresponsive and disengaged, was being assisted out the door by two staff members for an appointment. Suddenly, she stopped in her tracks and reached out to pet Teddy. I took a step closer and gave Teddy the command to “say hello.” To my surprise, the staff around her were in tears and explained that she rarely, if ever, engaged with anyone or activities. A few months later, at another event, I saw her again, actively enjoying Teddy’s company once more. It was a beautiful testament to the profound impact Teddy has on those around him.
These volunteer visits earned Teddy and I the 2024 Community Champion Award from Open Sky Community Services. Supporting staff and individuals in this way has been incredibly rewarding, and seeing the positive impact a short visit can bring is so meaningful.
Teddy’s favorite command is “my lap,” but when he’s not working or lying on top of his owners, he can be found lounging on his favorite spot on the couch, going swimming, sticking his head out the window on long car rides, and playing frisbee with his canine brother, Mr. Smee.
Teddy’s presence has not only changed my family’s life, but impacts countless others, whether he is working or just out and about in town – everyone stops to see Teddy. With his big head and soft eyes, he can be goofy and loving all in one moment. NEADS told me there was something special about Teddy, and all I can say is, it was worth the wait!
