In Marin County, Northern California, a beautiful Golden Retriever puppy gives cuddles to brave firefighters combating the city’s ongoing wildfires. Since she was a puppy, Kerith has been known for being a happy, helpful, and kind dog. Kerith, who is now a certified therapy dog, provides emotional support, comfort, and cuddles to her companions at the firehouse.
Heidi Carman, Kerith’s mother, told The Dodo: “He enjoys people so much that he acts as if they are long-lost friends when he meets them for the first time.” She never runs out of love to give to the people she loves.” Her mother had recommended Kerith for a job at the San Rafael School as a guide dog for the blind. They learned, however, after 14 months of training, that her generosity rendered her unfit for this role.
Heidi was quoted by SFGATE as saying: “He’s far too kind to everyone, which isn’t ideal for the work of a guide dog.” A guiding dog must be entirely focused on and not distracted by a single human. On the other hand, Kerith simply wants to love everyone.”
At that point, Heidi decided to join Pet Partners, a national organization dedicated to training therapy dogs for society. After graduation and working at Marin General Hospital, she was invited by the firemen to visit them and offer them a decent therapy session. She had been working for a year when the outbreak forced her to halt. Kerith had to deal with her feelings of loneliness because she missed seeing her friends and being able to give them her treatments.
According to Heidi, “During the beginning of COVID, when we couldn’t do anything or see anyone, I would claim I was depressed.” I was just plain depressed. I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to be doing: giving love to firefighters.”