A Loyal Therapy Dog Faces Grief
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – Therapy dogs are known for bringing comfort to others dealing with anxiety, grief, and trauma. But when Riggs, a black Labrador retriever, lost his owner, he found himself in need of healing as well.
Therapy dogs can experience grief just like humans, showing signs of sadness, loss of appetite, and behavioral changes. Riggs, who had been a source of joy alongside his owner, Chuck Patrick, was no exception. Known for his sweet, gentle, and loving nature, Riggs had a special gift for connecting with people in hospital rooms.
“He’s sweet, gentle, and loving,” said Gloria Patrick, Chuck’s wife. “And he loves people.”
The Bond Between Riggs and Chuck
Though Riggs didn’t fetch or swim like most Labradors, he had an extraordinary bond with Chuck. Together, they volunteered as a team, spreading smiles and comfort wherever they went. When Chuck passed away on December 29, 2024, both Gloria and Riggs were left grieving. The once-joyful therapy dog became visibly withdrawn, with his tail tucked and energy lost.
“They were a pair,” Gloria recalled. “When dad was gone, he fell apart, as I did; we both missed him badly.”
The Healing Process
Slowly, healing began for both Riggs and Gloria as they leaned on each other. With encouragement from volunteers at Roper St. Francis Healthcare, Gloria brought Riggs back into the therapy dog program, marking a turning point in their journey.
“That’s what the therapy dog needed,” said Meg Mauri, a volunteer and pet therapy advocate. “His therapy was to give therapy.”
Riggs Finds Purpose Again
As Riggs returned to his therapy rounds—greeting patients and spreading joy—his tail began to wag again, and his spirit slowly lifted. With Gloria by his side, he rediscovered the purpose of helping others, just as he had done with Chuck.
“I think it’s given me a sense of purpose, too,” Gloria said. “I’m not as social, going out as much as I was before. I’m working with him, and so I think the two of us have become a team.”
Join the Pet Therapy Program
For those interested in joining the Pet Therapy Program at Roper St. Francis Healthcare, here’s what you need to know:
Handlers must become Roper St. Francis Healthcare volunteers.
Pet therapy dogs must have a friendly demeanor, be certified or licensed, and have up-to-date vet records and immunizations.
For more information, you can contact the volunteer manager at any of the four Roper St. Francis hospitals.
