For those of us who have lost someone near and dear to our hearts, you know just how daunting the thought of seeing them after their death can be. A funeral home isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of comforting and warmth. Fiona, the Burmese Mountain Dog who spends her days at a New York funeral home, wants to be your warm hug on a very hard day.
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Fiona was trained to assist those who are struggling at her dog mom’s place of work, a funeral home. Each viewing or funeral is filled with distraught loved ones, and Fiona takes the time to comfort each and every person if they need it. Nora, Fiona’s owner is especially proud of her compassionate pup. She has witnessed the incredible impact Fiona has had on the grieving families, and is still in amazement when she watches her pup in action.
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It all began when Fiona rushed to the aid of a daughter who was in need. It was as if Fiona could sense her hesitance to enter the viewing room, and knew she could give her the strength to take those first steps. The woman held on to Fiona’s fur as she took those painful steps toward the casket of her late mother. As the woman fought through this painful day, she had a beautiful furry soul by her side.
Aside from her work at the funeral home, Fiona and her owner Nora had been working toward her incredible honor of being a Canine Good Citizen. To earn this certificate, she had to pass a 10 step test. This test included basic commands, walking through a crowd and behaving politely while doing so, greeting a stranger with ease, and behaving well around other dogs. She passed this test with flying colors, and became the one millionth Canine Good Citizen.
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Fiona is one of many Good Citizens who have went through the program that has helped to gain recognition to good dogs all over the word.
“This program has done so much good, from helping dog owners to teach their pet good manners to rehabilitating dogs that have had behavioral issues.” – Executive Vice President of AKC Sports & Events
Fiona continues to use her compassion and good citizen skills to help every broken heart that enters the funeral home. If there is a family member in need of a hug, Fiona is there waiting with open paws.
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H/T: people.com
Image Source: AKC/Facebook
Toledo, United States.
