A Loyal Dog Brings Joy to an Elderly Woman Every Day
Dogs have a unique ability to connect with humans and bring comfort into our lives. Every day, a kind-hearted dog visits an elderly woman, lifting her spirits and brightening her days.
Jade, a 35-pound Australian Shepherd and Shiba Inu mix, has found her calling as a support dog. Heath, Jade’s human companion, shared her story in an interview with Bored Panda, describing how Jade has taken on this role in a touching way.
In a post on Reddit’s r/Dogs community, Heath shared how his partner, who works in home health care, introduced Jade to an elderly client. Jade, just 1.5 years old, quickly formed a special bond with this woman, who had recently lost both her husband and her own dog. Heath suggested that Jade accompany his partner to visit the woman, and Jade seemed to understand the need to be gentle and caring.
Jade and the woman, affectionately referred to as Mrs. Riddle, have become inseparable. Mrs. Riddle even gifted Jade a “mountain of toys” as a token of their special connection. Whenever Heath or his partner asks Jade if she wants to visit Mrs. Riddle, Jade excitedly jumps and races to the door.
Heath shared that Mrs. Riddle expressed how much meaning Jade has brought into her life. Jade spends weekdays with her from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., almost as if it’s her full-time job. It’s heartwarming to think that Jade, who was once adopted as a puppy to support Heath’s mental health, has now become a source of comfort for someone else in need.
Heath, who has had Jade since she was 8 weeks old, shared that she was adopted from a woman in Palmer, Alaska. Jade’s mother is a mix of American Eskimo dog and Shiba Inu, while her father is an Australian Shepherd. Jade’s playful personality and protective nature make her an endearing companion to everyone she meets.
Jade and Mrs. Riddle’s bond is truly special. They spend hours together, with Jade enjoying games of fetch and snacking on her favorite beef liver treats. Heath mentioned how Jade’s Eskimo dog heritage makes her love to run, and he often takes her skateboarding along Anchorage’s Coastal Trail.
Although “Mrs. Riddle” isn’t the woman’s real name, Heath revealed in the comments that she was a former teacher from Texas. The story of Jade’s companionship has resonated with many, with readers praising the dog’s instinctive ability to bring joy to those who need it most.
Jade’s story is a reminder of the unconditional love dogs offer and how they can sense when someone needs comfort. Heath’s decision to share Jade with Mrs. Riddle is a beautiful example of compassion, and it’s clear that Jade is thriving in her role as a support dog.
We wish Jade and Mrs. Riddle all the best as they continue to bring joy into each other’s lives. If this story touched your heart, consider sharing it with others so they, too, can appreciate the remarkable bond between humans and dogs.
