AKC Humane Fund ACE Award Winner – Therapy Dog: Tuffie

AKC Humane Fund ACE Award Winner – Therapy Dog: Tuffie

Interview with the Handler Amy McCharty

1. How did you and Tuffie become involved with Alliance of Therapy Dogs?

Amy McCarthy: When my Dad was in a nursing home, he truly enjoyed when my Mom and I brought their dog Hannah up to visit him. And the other residents seemed to enjoy the visits also. At that point, I decided I wanted to become involved with Therapy Dog work if my dogs seemed so inclined. Tuffie is actually the fourth Saint Bernard I have had registered with Alliance of Therapy Dogs. ATD is based out of Cheyenne, Wyoming, but registers teams throughout the country.

Mandy was the first, followed by Bella. Twister preceded Tuffie and was the dog that got me more involved with Therapy Dog activities, since he was my willing companion no matter what type of therapy visit I asked him to go on. And I began as a tester/observer for ATD. When looking to add Tuffie to our family, her breeder knew that I wished to continue my involvement with the Therapy Dogs. Despite being the cutest puppy in the world, it was important that she have the temperament for me to continue.

2. Tuffie has provided comfort to so many for the past seven years. What makes her so special?

Amy McCarthy: I think she is very approachable in her appearance, despite being a giant breed dog. People are immediately drawn to her because she looks sweet, soft, fluffy, and huggable. She is reserved, but not shy, when people approach her, leaning gently forward so they can pet her. She loves children, and I will often ask her to lie down for attention so that her size does not intimidate.

3. Are there reasons why a Saint Bernard can be particularly helpful in this line of work?

Amy McCarthy: Saint Bernards should be gentle giants, and the gentle temperament is an important characteristic of the breed. They always draw a crowd and people want to pet them. It starts a conversation, breaking the ice. One of the mothers whose son is a member of the Champs group we work with summed it up pretty well by saying, “I am not sure why, exactly, but the kids are just drawn to your big dogs.”

4. Is there a specific moment that encapsulates your working relationship with Tuffie?

Amy McCarthy: I always say that doing the Therapy Dog volunteer work is a win-win situation—I get to spend time with the dog I love, and we get to do good by helping others. Despite being 9-1/2 years old, she still shows a willingness to do what I ask her to do by comforting others. I cherish that in her. When people comment how she has helped them, or when she gives someone that look of understanding and caring, it can bring a tear to my eye.

5. How has your partnership with Tuffie impacted your life on the job and at home?

Amy McCarthy: I still work full-time, so finding the time to make our visits happen can be a balancing act. We go to a variety of places, which makes it interesting for both her and me. We spend lots of time together. She is an integral part of the family. What is that statement…? “I only hope I can be the type of person my dog believes me to be.”

I think she is very approachable in her appearance, despite being a giant breed dog.People are immediately drawn to her because she looks sweet, soft, fluffy, and huggable.