Hospital’s new volunteer has tongues wagging
Benny, 2, says he has his adopted parents, Trey and Robyn O’Connell, to thank for inspiring his career as a therapy dog. The two volunteers at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton helped him train for his certification and even pulled some strings to get him his job.
Originally from Iowa, the English golden doodle moved to Texas when he was adopted at just 8 weeks old. He’s so devoted to his career that he also volunteers at other area hospitals and appears at special events when he can get a ride.
What did you want to be as a puppy, and how did you ultimately choose to become a therapy dog?
I’ve always wanted to help people, so when my adopted parents signed up to volunteer, I decided to get registered as a therapy dog and tag along. I discovered that I loved visiting the hospital, so I’ve been doing it ever since.
What’s a typical workday like?
I work at several hospitals around the area, so I’m always on the go. When I’m on the job, I visit with employees, patients and visitors. Both my parents are registered, too, so I bring them with me. I have a natural ability to make people happy, so I just watch them relax while they pet me.
What’s your favorite part of the job, and what’s your biggest challenge?
It’s definitely the people. I seem to have a natural charisma, so I love interacting with everyone and making new friends. I also can get bored with the same routine, so it’s great that I can go to different hospitals and meet different people. But sometimes my job can be challenging, because I’m not allowed to jump on people and sit in their laps. I only weigh 70 pounds, so I don’t understand the problem.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like spending time with my family and my collection of stuffed animals, kayaking, fetching or playing tug.
What’s something most people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m pretty much an open book, but I do have a hidden talent. I can jump through a Hula Hoop!
By Robin P. Loveman • Posted August 20, 2019
