Casey was my first “therapy” beagle.  He achieved his certification at just one year
old.  He was an awesome therapy dog from the start.  Through Casey I met Laura Whitman, who, with Remi, became my idols.  I was determined to teach Casey silly tricks, which he quickly learned.  He would say his prayers, take a bow, play the piano, roll over, shake hands, as well as basic obedience commands.  I trained and competed with Casey and took him to two obedience titles.

Casey taught me a lot of things in 14 years.  He taught me that you really can train a beagle.  He taught me about unconditional love.  He taught me patience and kindness.  He taught me what total loyalty and devotion was really all about.

Casey loved every aspect of therapy dog work.  In his 14 years he visited Hershey Medical Center, Geisinger Medical Center, Holy Spirit Hospital, several nursing homes, rang the Salvation Army bell, library programs, church programs, but his favorite was our speaking engagements.  He loved to be in front of a crowd.  He wore any silly outfit, hat, glasses, etc. that I put on him because he knew it made people smile.  He was featured in many news articles and magazines throughout his therapy career.Casey always had an old soul.  He was the best dog I ever owned.  Our bond was real and deeper than any I ever knew.  I continue to do therapy work with Denver and Maggie and hopefully soon Sunshine will be certified.  They have big shoes to fill!

MY TRIBUTE TO CASEY!!!
I didn’t know today would be our last
and that I’d have to say goodbye to you so fast
I’m so numb I can’t feel anymore
Praying you’d just walk back through that doorYou always made my troubles feel so small
and you were always there to catch me when I’d fall
In a world where heroes come and go
Well God just took the only one I know

So I’ll hold you as close as I can
Longing for the day when I see your face again
But until then…

God must need another angel around the thrown tonight
Your love lives on inside of me and I will hold on tight
It’s not my place to question, only God knows why
I’m just jealous of the angels around the thrown tonight

It was a privilege and honor to be loved by Casey! His therapy dog work was phenomenal. He was such a fabulous little man from day one of our lives together. We had such a special bond. He was so much fun to train and compete with. I will miss him ALWAYS!

~ Cindy Wilson