When four-and-a-half-year-old golden retriever Buddy officially retired from his role as a hospital facility dog, nobody told him. Even in his well-earned retirement, Buddy continues to monitor his owner’s workouts, offer emotional support, and insist on holding hands—just like he did when comforting young patients at the hospital. Though his body may have slowed down, his heart hasn’t missed a beat when it comes to being there for others.
A Lifelong Calling
Buddy’s journey began at just 8 weeks old at Canine Assistants in Georgia, where he was trained for a life of service. By the time he was one and a half, Buddy had been matched with a hospital in Boston as a facility dog, working full-time with the Child Life team to support children and families during some of the most difficult times of their lives. His job was more than comforting—it was therapeutic, developmental, and transformative for those he met.
When Work Turned to Worry
In the summer of 2024, Buddy started showing troubling signs that something wasn’t right. After a series of tests, he was diagnosed with a degenerative Lower Motor Neuron disease. The illness—and the immunosuppressive medications needed to manage it—meant Buddy could no longer serve in the hospital environment. In April 2025, at just four years old, he was officially retired from his duties.
Retired but Still Reporting for Duty
Buddy was adopted by his handler Candice, who had worked alongside him in the hospital. Since then, he’s adapted to home life—but in the most Buddy way possible. A viral TikTok video shows him still acting like he’s on shift: checking on his mom during workouts, holding hands, and offering his signature full-sentence “conversations.” His playful nature and deep empathy remain unchanged.
Spreading Smiles, One Paw at a Time
Though his diagnosis carries uncertainty, Buddy’s spirit remains bright. He spends his days enjoying banana treats, walks by the beach, and cuddles with the family he now calls his own. “To know Buddy, even a brief hello, is to feel unconditional love,” said Candice. And that love, it seems, is something he’ll never stop giving.
A Legacy of Love
While Buddy may no longer wear a vest or clock in at the hospital, he’s still changing lives. Whether it’s through his online presence or his unshakable bond with Candice, Buddy proves that service dogs never really stop working—they just find new ways to love.
Sameen is a digital marketing and content specialist well versed in curating content aligned to audience needs. She has a passion for animals and creating animal content across social media.
