MOORE, Okla, -- The peaceful sound of an October storm –interrupted by the desperate howls of a puppy. Sister Maria Faulkner said, “There was this German Shepard, soaking wet. It was pouring rain. She was cold and hungry, looking to come in.”
Sister Maria runs “Gospel of Life Dwelling for the Dying.” She believes that bark at the door was an answered prayer. “Ruth is from Germany. She escaped the Nazis. She and he husband always had German Shepards,” She said. “Her husband died. He dogs died. And she ran out of money and had to leave her home. A year ago today was the day she came here to the home for the dying. I took Rosie to met her. I think God sent Rosie to minister to Ruth.”
Rosie was a little too rambunctious for a hospice home. So, Sister Maria brought her to Mabel Bassett Correctional Center. Inmate Aimee Coghill said, “It give me a chance to give her another chance out there.“
Unwanted dogs are paired with inmates to learn basic commands and tricks. The “Guardian Angels” program helps animals, like Rosie, adapt to their new environment. Coghill said, “Like nursing homes. She will bring them a a lot of joy like she brought me joy here at Mabel Bassett.“
Inmate trainers spent more than 10 weeks successfully teaching Rosie to be a kind companion.
We were there for the much anticipated homecoming. Ruth said, “Rosie, my Rosie is home.”
Ruth was not expected to live more than a few weeks. A year later, she is thriving. Never underestimate the power of a paw.
