Shauna Darcy initially purchased Ruby as a support animal to help her cope with her anxiety, depression, and fear of public spaces. Right from the start, Ruby proved to be an exceptional companion and support animal, and it was evident that her devotion knew no bounds.
Shauna shared with The Dodo that during Ruby’s training as a service dog, she noticed that the canine was paying attention to changes in her pulse and reacting in peculiar ways like pawing at her, seeking her attention, or climbing on top of her. Intrigued by Ruby’s behavior, Shauna decided to follow her cues and visited a doctor. To her surprise, she was diagnosed with a rare heart disease called vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which she had not known about previously. It turned out that Ruby had sensed something wrong even before Shauna had realized it, and as a result, she shifted her focus to Shauna’s cardiac issues as a service dog.
On a daily basis, Shauna receives assistance from Ruby in various areas such as monitoring her vital signs and heart rate, providing support during panic attacks, and obtaining necessary medications during emergencies. Additionally, Ruby helps Shauna by carrying groceries, retrieving dropped items, and reaching objects that are difficult to access. Ruby is even trained in deep pressure therapy, which involves applying pressure to Shauna’s body until she feels better. According to Shauna, when she becomes unresponsive, Ruby is quick to respond by licking her fingers and face until she regains consciousness.
Ruby provides constant support to Shauna, even when she doesn’t realize she needs it. Last week, Ruby detected an issue, but Shauna wasn’t sure what was wrong. Despite feeling fine, Shauna trusted Ruby’s instincts and called for an ambulance as a precaution. It turned out that Shauna’s heart was in distress, and by the time the paramedics arrived, she was in considerable pain and barely conscious.
As soon as Shauna was brought to the clinic by the paramedics, she realized that Ruby had been her constant companion all along. The doctors were busy trying to stabilize Shauna while Ruby refused to leave her side. Even when Shauna was unconscious, Ruby lay next to her, pressed against her on the single bed, hoping that Shauna would feel her presence and be comforted by it.
During their time at the clinic, Ruby became quite popular with visitors. She always looked chic whenever she was out and about with Shauna, but never strayed too far from her side as she adores her companion. Even Xiao Na has taken a liking to Ruby.
Shauna’s life would be drastically different if she didn’t have Ruby by her side. Ruby has become an essential part of Shauna’s daily routine, keeping her healthy and safe. Shauna is extremely grateful for Ruby’s love and loyalty, acknowledging that she wouldn’t be here today without her furry companion.
Nowadays, pets not only provide companionship but also emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness and stress levels. They can contribute to positive self-esteem and emotions, especially for children. Most people consider their pets as family members and would never think of getting rid of them. However, in some cases, coexisting with animals can be challenging, and adoption becomes the last resort for families committed to their pets.
Abandoning animals on the street has become a severe problem, caused by several factors such as a lack of time and resources to give them adequate attention, financial difficulties, unwanted litters, parenting issues, new family members, or losing their home. Unfortunately, not all animals experience the same luck when going through these situations.
