Moments with Baxter
October 15, 2009 by Heather R.
Filed under Pets
My husband showed me this Youtube video last night about Baxter, an nineteen year old therapy dog who, even near the end of his own life, shares his time and comforting presence with those at the end of their lives.
It’s a tear-jerker, to be sure. The beautiful teddy bear of a dog, a chow-retriever mix who lost the use of his legs several years ago, is wheeled around in a cushioned wagon by his own carer, Melissa Joseph, who is also the author of the book “Moments With Baxter,” which chronicles 36 stories of Baxter’s four years as a certified therapy dog in a hospice center. Baxter also has his own blog.
I’ll admit, as one reviewer on Amazon also wrote, that I’m a little conflicted about the quality of life that Baxter himself has, although aside from the lack of use of his legs he does look to be healthy and happy. What do you think? Is it a non-issue or something his own caretaker should take into consideration?
We won a copy of this book at a Pawpawty on twitter. It is sad but at the same time I know that all of those people that are sick have had an uplifting moment when Baxter comes to visit.
He can’t walk but, he seems to still enjoy being with people (from the pics). If he’s not in pain & still enjoys attention then he can still have a quality of life worth keeping around.