Therapy pup retires after years of healing hearts in aged care

After surviving cancer and a brutal dog attack, Diamond, the inspiring rescue-turned-therapy dog, is retiring from her role at Townsville’s Ozcare. She was just farewelled today with a special ‘pawty’ after years of uplifting seniors.

Delta Dogs volunteer Raechelle Rauwerda and Ozcare resident Clare Colledge with Diamond, the inspirational rescue-turned-therapy dog, is retiring from her beloved role at Townsville’s Ozcare. Picture: Evan Morgan

After surviving cancer and a brutal dog attack, Diamond, the inspirational rescue-turned-therapy dog, is retiring from her beloved role at Townsville’s Ozcare.

The ten-year-old Bull Arab, who has spent years lifting the spirits of seniors, was farewelled on Friday with a special ‘pawty’ thrown by residents and staff at Villa Vincent aged care facility.

Despite her battles, including a recent cancer diagnosis that has spread to her lymph nodes and injuries from a savage dog attack last year, Diamond continued her therapy work, bringing joy to those around her.

“Her recovery after the attack and her fight against cancer amazed everyone, but it’s time for her to rest,” said her owner, Raechelle Rauwerda, a career adviser at Calvary Christian College.

Delta Dogs volunteer Raechelle Rauwerda and Ozcare resident Clare Colledge with Diamond, the inspirational rescue-turned-therapy dog, is retiring from her beloved role at Townsville’s Ozcare. Picture: Evan Morgan

“Diamond is the definition of resilience, and that’s what made her such a good therapy dog. She’s touched so many lives.”

Diamond’s life has been far from easy. Rescued by the RSPCA at age three, she was in poor condition, suffering from infections, heartworm, parasites, and a tail amputation due to injuries.

But her spirit remained unbroken, and she thrived as a Delta Dog, offering comfort to seniors and bringing smiles to the faces of those in need.

Delta Dogs volunteer Raechelle Rauwerda and Ozcare resident Clare Colledge with Diamond, the inspirational rescue-turned-therapy dog, is retiring from her beloved role at Townsville’s Ozcare. Picture: Evan Morgan

In a heartwarming tribute to her years of service, Friday’s retirement party saw Diamond enjoy her very own ‘pupcake’ as staff and residents gathered to celebrate her incredible journey.

“Our residents light up whenever Diamond is around,” said Ozcare Diversional Therapist Belle Wolstenholme.

“It’s heartbreaking to see her go into retirement because she’s been an inspiration to everyone at Ozcare.”

Originally published as Therapy pup retires after years of healing hearts in aged care