Then rest-assured — ‘‘Dogtor Nancy’’ is on her way.
The Staffordshire bull terrier is in with a chance of being crowned New Zealand’s top dog, as one of a handful of hounds nominated for this year’s Southern Cross Pet Insurance ‘‘Dog of the Year’’ award.
Nancy is a regular visitor of Dunedin Hospital wards, including the intensive care unit, offering comfort and companionship to patients, families and healthcare staff.
Dianne Angell, 3-year-old Nancy’s owner, said her dog had touched many people’s lives.
‘‘To have that recognition would be the icing on the cake.’’
Nancy was an official employee at Dunedin Hospital with her very own ID card — her official title was ‘‘Dogtor Nancy’’, Mrs Angell said.
She had been volunteering there since she was 12 weeks old.
The pair visited the intensive care unit every Monday afternoon ‘‘to bring a little bit of sunshine’’.
Mrs Angell would talk to the patients and lift their hands so they could pat Nancy, who also served as a distraction for patients during bedside procedures.
She could also ‘‘sense’’ when non-responsive patients would like a visit and sat at their door, not wanting to pass them by.
Nancy was well-known throughout the community and was deserving of the award.
‘‘Everyone she meets just loves her and can’t believe how well-trained and obedient she is.
‘‘In the hospital situation, she’s just a delight.’’
And Nancy’s thoughts on being a finalist?
‘‘She went to work the other day and everyone was fussing — but that’s not news for her,’’ Mrs Angell said.
‘‘She just loves her job, so any fuss she gets at work is much appreciated on her part.’’
The other finalists in the running for ‘‘Dog of the Year’’ are Flash, an ex-racing greyhound who overcame injury; Skittles, a once-abandoned pup who rehabilitates foster dogs and supports trauma recovery; Paddington, a therapy dog at hospitals, schools and community events; and Lace, a search-and-rescue dog.
There is also a ‘‘Cat of the Year’’ award up for grabs.
Voting closes on Wednesday at midnight.
