Ernie- Clock Life Story Funeral Home's " in training Therapy Dog

The idea of a therapy dog at a funeral home is wonderful! I have been at Clock's for a visitation or funeral - the act of saying hi or petting a dog is one way to release tension and just be comforted.

Of course, not all people are pet lovers - but for those of us that are, it is a simple act of love.

Pros: Comfort for pet owners

Cons: none

This time last year my husband and I became parents to a new bundle of joy, not to mention energy, a nine week old Sheltie we names Ernie. Ernie is now one. He is officially a Therapy Dog in Training! With the assistance of Kris Larsen, on behalf of Therapy Dogs, Inc. (TDInc.) we can begin the journey towards his registration.
TDInc. Is an amazing organization that is dedicated to providing registration, support and insurance for members who are involved in volunteer animal assisted activities.
From the day we brought Ernie home, he has come to work daily with us. Ernie is cage trained and has one of his many cages in my office. Since day one, under the recommendations of Kris Larsen we began an “in-house” training program”. The 1st goal was for Ernie to be comfortable with his new surroundings – which included no barking at the dreaded doorbell! Slowly we introduced him to crucial people in his life other than his funeral home family…aka “ the mailman”, “UPS Man” and “Fed Ex Man”. They have all learned to bring biscuits, or know where to find them when they arrive. For what ever reasons, this is big fun to Ernie!
For 8 months, Ernie did not have free roam in our facility, he was confined to my office with a child gate or to the front offices with our admin team. He trusts everyone here and they have all participated in his development, even potty training. Ernie is not shy about letting someone know when its time to GO!!!!
When Ernie was 6 months we introduced him to his “working jacket” known as a saddle. What else can I say, he hates it ! Just like any young child, he would prefer to run around nakey! It’s become a game and is hysterical to watch. He literally runs away from me, puts his ears back and head down when he realizes its time to be dressed.
Ernie understands that when the saddle is on, he is working. That means – NO JUMPING or running around like a fool.This is a great thing for the rest of us, however – the very minute the saddle is removed – he reverts back into his jumping running antics. Please come visit Ernie and we hope you’ll enjoy watching him grow up as we are.

Pros: Provides uncondiditonal love and comfort

Cons: Not every family loves pets