Gopher Disappointed

Gopher, as I have said many times, is a bit odd and very good at his job. Even when he is sans equipment he is often on the job as I have discussed in "Always Ready" series in January of 2012. He is also persistent about his schedule, in all things, when he is supposed to visit and hasn't left he will go to the door, cry, and grab his special leash. When it is time for dinner he will sit in the middle of the living room or simply as Carla's feet and look at her as if she is forgetting something. His hospice patients he recognizes names and will get extra excited for those he likes best. This is the same with friends and similar to his recognition of the name Emily in the video below.

Just this morning we were off to see his favorite patient, the mention of her name gets him to the door looking for me to put on his equipment so he can go to work. Even though he had to have his nails ground this morning he was still ready to go and anxious to see her.

We hopped in the car and he stretched out in the backseat for the commute. As soon as we exited he was sitting up and as we made the final turn onto her street he started whimpering and massaging the seat with his front paws.We pulled up and I hopped out, despite leaving the door open Gopher stayed in his place until I grabbed the leash but uttered his impatience with me audibly. I grab the leash and walk towards the door, Gopher impatiently at my side.

We arrived at the door, where our patients son was there to meet us. Gopher was prancing on all four paws ready to go in and see his patient. Unfortunately, when we were met at the door we were told she wasn't doing well today and was resting. As if on queue Gopher hung his head and stopped wagging. I thanked her son and went back to the car. Gopher hopped back into the seat and sat with a loud huff, and gave me a nasty look as if it way my fault. Gophers attitude and perception of situations never ceases to amaze me, and I know it is unlikely I will ever have another therapy partner like him. I am thankful to have him now as he changes my perception of life itself. I did make it up to him as we split a two cheeseburger meal from McDonalds (without onions, for his safety despite the fact I love them) and he seemed to get over his anger.