Irene Beddington, an area resident who had lived in her own Barriere home until last year, is known as one of the Star/Journal’s long standing columnists.
She felt comfortable and well cared for in the Yellowhead Assisted Living Residence, but something was missing; she was lonely and down in spirit.
Irene’s family say they were a little concerned about her, and had a discussion about what they could do to cheer her up. They remembered her often mentioning she would like to have a little dog, because even though her old dog Duffy came to visit quite often, she was simply too big to stay with her in the care home.
So the decision was made, and Irene’s son Ken called ‘Barriere’s Animal Person’ and asked her if she could find a small suitable dog for his Mom?
The first possibility didn’t work out, a sweet little Chihuahua, but unfortunately it had some issues to contend with. So, back to the drawing board.
This time they contacted a local woman who had raised little dogs.
Yes, the woman said she did have a tiny, approximately three pound, long haired Chi who was five-years-old, but still a happy little fellow.
Ken says “It was love at first sight,” when ‘Little Cody’ met Irene. After the first time he was placed on her lap, that now seems to be where he spends most of his time; other than hopping into bed when it’s time to go to sleep.
Irene says, “He cuddles up to my neck, puts his face into my hand and his bottom to my face” and both of us are ever so comfortable”.
Irene’s family say they can hardly believe the positive change in Irene since Little Cody took up residence with her.
Within a day she just cheered up and became interested in life all over again.
It took the love and affection of a tiny dog to do what caregivers and family could not.
Little Cody has made life worthwhile again. In the care home residence Irene had all the comforts she could ask for, except the warmth and love of a tiny dog.
Now she has that love, and both she and her canine companion are enjoying their lives together.