TBT: Fergus, the miracle worker

You’ll never guess in a million trillion years who’s a huge hit at the nursing home? Yes, the First Assistant Caregiver himself, Fergus.

When we rescued him in 2006 his adoption report was less than ideal. Outgoing? No. Friendly? No. Playful? Calm? Sweet? No, no, no. Nervous? Yes. Fearful? Yes. Shy? Yes. Aggressive? They circled yes, then did a poor job of erasing it.

The report also said he was not recommended for children younger than 14 years, he required a quiet home and when it came to handling, it was best to avoid his feet, teeth, head and ears especially if you like your hands and fingers intact.

The report didn't say, but Fergus clearly had had a hard life that included abuse (brooms and spray bottles freaked him out) and living on the streets (he still will only eat his dry food on the bed or sofa because he feels he can take his time chewing in the relative safety of an elevated spot).

I am fortunate in that Martin's nursing home allows pets to visit provided they have proof of rabies vaccination. When I first took Fergus to visit, I would carry him in to avoid contact with strangers. After all, I had witnessed firsthand his reaction to police, UPS, FedEx and postal workers and anyone in uniform.

Now? Fergus is a friggin’ rock star. Residents and staff alike have taken to him, but more amazing, he has taken to them. Those of you who know Fergus know that his terrier and dachshund sides love to bubble to the surface, and being a small dog just adds to his charming personality.

I’m famous for saying to him when he’s on a little-dog barky tear, “That’s why you have no friends!” Yet, when he is at the nursing home, it’s like I don’t know him. He basks in the glow of being fawned over. You can touch his feet, head and ears all you want. He lives for belly rubs.

One elderly woman gently grabbed his face, opened his mouth and asked, “How many teeth do you have in there?” He responded by giving her kisses. In fact, he’s pretty much given everybody kisses who gets within kissing range.

So on days when Fergus accompanies me, I build in extra time. First, we visit Martin and then we take the long way to the exit and visit with patients.

Study after study shows that pets have so many restorative powers when it comes to the elderly, from reducing stress and blood pressure to increasing social interaction and movement. They can also spark conversation, smiles and laughter, and bring back a memory or two.

Who da man? You da man, Fergs!