Teacup Poodle’s Adorable Elevator Adventure Spreads Joy Everywhere
Dogs have an incredible way of bringing comfort and joy into people’s lives. Among these wonderful animals, one special teacup poodle named Nala has become a beloved figure at a nursing home in Minnesota. With her tiny paws and affectionate heart, she’s made a significant impact on the lives of the residents, offering them unconditional love and companionship.
Nala’s journey began when her owner, Doug Dawson, brought her to work at the Lyngblomsten Care Center in St. Paul. Doug worked at the nursing home, and one day, he decided to take Nala along. What happened next was nothing short of magical.
Rather than staying by Doug’s side, Nala happily wandered the halls, greeting residents and spreading warmth wherever she went. That day marked the beginning of her daily routine—a routine that would soon become a cherished tradition.
A Natural Healer
Nala wasn’t a trained therapy dog, but she had an instinctive way of connecting with people in need. Her presence brought a sense of peace, especially to those who were struggling with illness or loneliness.
Doug noticed something extraordinary about Nala—she seemed to gravitate toward the residents who needed her the most.
“If you put her down, she’ll pick out the person with Alzheimer’s,” Doug once shared. “She has a way of picking the sick.”
Her ability to sense who needed comfort made her a beloved member of the nursing home community. Residents eagerly awaited her visits, and staff members marveled at her empathetic nature.
The Elevator Adventure Begins
What made Nala even more unique was her daily elevator rides. Every morning, Doug would place her in the elevator, and the little poodle would embark on her solo rounds—visiting different floors and greeting residents along the way.
“She’d rather ride it alone than with people because she knows where she’s going,” Doug explained.
The sight of a tiny teacup poodle confidently riding the elevator became a heartwarming highlight of the day for both staff and residents. As soon as the doors opened, Nala would trot down the hallways, stopping on laps, cuddling with residents, and spreading joy.
A Comfort in Difficult Times
Over time, Nala became more than just a visitor; she became a source of emotional healing. She developed unique bonds with many residents, offering comfort in their most vulnerable moments. One of those residents was 90-year-old Ruth New, who described Nala as nothing short of an angel.
Nala also had a remarkable sensitivity to those nearing the end of their lives. It was as if she could sense when someone needed extra love, and she never hesitated to provide it.
Her story eventually gained national attention when Boyd Huppert’s “Land of 10,000 Stories” featured her. People from all over the country were touched by her kindness, and letters, gifts, and dog toys started pouring in as a sign of appreciation for the love she spread.
A Heartbreaking Pause
Unfortunately, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, visits to the nursing home had to stop. Residents deeply missed Nala, and the absence of their furry friend left a void in their daily lives.
Then, in July 2020, tragedy struck when Doug Dawson passed away unexpectedly. The loss of her beloved owner was a difficult time for Nala, but she wasn’t alone. Doug’s wife, Javon Allen, continued to care for the little poodle, and in return, Nala provided comfort during this time of grief.
“She’s been my rock through this whole thing,” Javon shared.
10 Years of Love and Counting
Now 10 years old, Nala is still a living reminder of the incredible bond between animals and humans. Her journey has touched countless lives, proving that even the smallest creatures can bring immense joy.
Through her elevator rides and unconditional love, Nala continues to remind us of the power of kindness, connection, and the healing spirit of a dog’s companionship.
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