Retirement of the Nation's Pioneering Therapy Dog, Oba
Oba, Taiwan's first therapy dog, retired on Tuesday in a ceremony marked by fanfare and celebration at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH). The ten-year-old canine, equivalent to 60 to 70 years for humans, has spent the past six years providing calm and comfort to anxious patients at this general hospital near me.
The ceremony was attended by significant figures in Oba's life, such as the person who helped bring Oba into this world and the family who cared for the dog earlier. Hospice ward nurse Liu Hsia-ching, often referred to as Oba's mom, spoke at the event, expressing her gratitude for the dog's years of service.
Oba's steady gaze has provided safety and courage for those who need it. The dog's warm and trustworthy presence has been a haven for patients and their families during difficult times. Over the years, Oba has touched the lives of many, bringing a sense of peace and calm to the hospital.
As Oba retires from active service, the therapy dog will continue to serve as a volunteer at the hospital. A new therapy dog named Olga is being prepared to take on Oba's vest and legacy. Buddy, another new therapy dog set to take over Oba's position, was also present at the ceremony.
TVGH superintendent Chen Wei-ming and other guests, including family members of those whom Oba served, attended the retirement ceremony. The event was photographed by Lin Chih-yi of the Taipei Times. During the ceremony, Oba's vest denoting its status of service was removed. The dog was also awarded a medal in recognition of its years of service.
Oba, a dog, has made a significant impact on the lives of many during its time at TVGH. The retirement of this beloved therapy dog marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter for the hospital's therapy dog programme.
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