In a cozy corner of a Minneapolis memory care unit, an Irish Terrier named Tige brings a unique form of therapy. His owner, Jill Donahue, shares tales of Tige's journey from a competitive lure coursing dog to a beloved therapy animal.

With an infectious enthusiasm and a tail that seldom stops wagging, Tige’s impact on the lives he touches is profound.

Photo: Jill Donahue
Tige is an Irish Terrier who transitioned from competitive lure coursing to therapy work.

From the Race Track to Therapy Work

Tige’s story begins on the racing fields, where his athletic prowess was evident. "His best time was 25.2 mph," Donahue recalls. But as Tige grew older, Donahue realized that his racing days wouldn’t last forever. This realization led them to explore other areas where Tige’s energy and joy could be of service.

He had some obedience training, so it felt natural to transition into therapy work, Donahue explains.

The duo embarked on a therapy dog training course that proved to be just the beginning of a fulfilling new chapter.

"Even before we finished the class, our instructors felt we were ready for evaluation," Donahue states proudly. They passed with flying colors and soon found their calling working with seniors.

Photo: Jill Donahue
His owner, Jill Donahue, guided him through the transition to therapy dog training.

A Light in Memory Care

Tige's regular visits to the local senior care facility have become a highlight for both him and the residents. Donahue notes the significant effect pets have on individuals in memory care.

"People may not open up easily due to their conditions, but with Tige, we meet them where they are," she says. "It's all about making them feel comfortable and cared for."

One particular breakthrough involved a resident who hadn’t smiled in a long time.

"Seeing him laugh while petting Tige was a moment of pure joy," Donahue says.

The therapy sessions often involve repetitive interactions, but this never deters Tige or Donahue. "If they need to ask Tige’s age three times, we happily answer three times," she says.

Photo: Jill Donahue
Tige regularly visits a memory care unit to interact with residents.

Beyond Memory Care: Tige’s Broader Impact

Donahue and Tige also visit a domestic violence shelter and partake in the Pet Partners Read With Me program.

"It's less intimidating for children to read to an animal than to an adult," Donahue points out, emphasizing the comfort Tige brings in various stressful or unfamiliar environments.

Their work does not stop there. Recently, Tige was accepted into an animal-assisted crisis response program, an initiative providing support in traumatic situations.

"This program sends therapy dog teams to help not just the victims but also their families and first responders," Donahue explains.

Photo: Jill Donahue
Tige's therapy work also extends to a domestic violence shelter, helping women and children.

Upcoming Adventures and Continued Service

Looking ahead, Tige is set to be an ambassador at the Minnesota Emergency Coordinators Workshop. His role involves providing comfort to attendees as they learn about the benefits of animal-assisted interventions in crises.

"Tige’s calm demeanor makes him ideal for these situations. Despite the potential chaos, I don’t think it will faze him," Donahue confides. She credits his unflappable nature to the extensive training and evaluations that ensure he can handle a variety of environments and stimuli.

Photo: Jill Donahue
Tige was recently accepted into an animal-assisted crisis response program.

A Joyful Companion

At home, Tige is just as lively, his tail wagging even as he rests.

"He’s the happiest dog I’ve ever met," Donahue says, a statement supported by every anecdote she shares. Tige's happiness is not just a trait but a therapeutic tool that eases the worries of those he meets.

Donahue's journey with Tige underscores the profound impact that therapy animals can have. From bringing joy to memory care residents to supporting vulnerable populations in shelters and participating in educational programs, Tige’s work is a testament to the healing power of pets.

Donahue concludes with a reflection on their experiences, "Seeing the difference Tige makes in people’s lives—it’s deeply rewarding."

As Tige continues to spread happiness wherever he goes, his story is a reminder of the comfort and joy that therapy dogs can bring into the lives of many, simply by being themselves—a friend on four legs with a heart ready to serve.