Chance, a brave rescue dog, has become a symbol of self-improvement and compassion as he makes the most of his second chance at life as a therapy dog at Shriners Lexington Children’s Hospital.
Chance’s story begins when he was found malnourished and with a bullet lodged in his shoulder. Camp Jean Rescue, a group of animal lovers, provided him with much-needed medical care and compassion, but they were unable to save his front leg. To treat the gunshot wound, veterinarians were forced to remove his left front leg, collarbone and shoulder. However, Chance quickly adjusted to the loss and touchingly charmed his adopter.
Andrea White, Chance’s mother and caregiver, decided to pursue pet therapy certification after seeing Chance’s kindness, intelligence, and obedience. Her experience as a former Shriners nurse led her to focus on visiting patients with limb deficiencies. Together with Chance, they went through the rigorous “Love on a Leash” therapy pet training, and the brave canine became a certified therapy dog, visiting children with limb disabilities, inspiring them with his own story of improvement.
Chance’s impact is evident in the smiles of children and their families when he enters the exam rooms. Emily Yost, mother of a prosthetic patient, shares how the experience of meeting Chance was deeply inspiring for her family. Chance has shown them that compassion and identification can overcome any barrier.
Beth English, a licensed therapeutic recreational therapist at the hospital, highlights the importance of Chance’s presence in relieving anxiety and stress for patients who must undergo extended visits to the prosthetics clinic. The smiles on the faces of patients and their families tell the story of the joy and hope Chance brings.
Although Chance takes his therapy work seriously, he enjoys his free time cuddling White and playing with his canine sister, Sadie.
Andrea White hopes that Chance’s inspiring story will motivate animal lovers to support therapy dog programs, which offer comfort and joy not only in hospitals, but also in nursing homes, schools, airports and libraries. The presence of these amazing furry companions can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need them.
