Cuddles, Cookies and a Great Human
Dear Friends,
Hi there! Mike here—your friendly neighborhood Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) Ambassador Dog and, if I may say so myself, a rather distinguished gentleman. At nearly 11 years old, I’ve been around the block a few times, met incredible humans and learned a thing or two about life. But today, I want to tell you about someone truly special — Dennis O’Rourke.
Now, I know what you’re thinking — dogs can’t write. And you’re mostly correct. This is actually a bark-to-text situation (shoutout to technology). But trust me, if I could type, this story would still be worth telling.
Enter Dennis O’Rourke. Dennis showed up at WCC a little over two years ago, and let’s just say, he wasn’t in the best shape when we first met. He had recently lost Sandy, his wife of 35 years, and on top of that, he was navigating the long-term effects of a stroke. You could see the weight of the world on his shoulders. But here’s the thing about Dennis — he’s an Army Veteran, and if there’s anything I’ve learned from my time with Warriors, it’s that they never quit.
Dennis served 14 years in the U.S. Army, traveling all over the world — Frankfurt, Germany; Korea; California. The Army even trained him at IBM, where he became a whiz with electronics and mechanics (which, unfortunately, does not include dog treat dispensers — missed opportunity, Dennis). After the Army, his career took him to all over the world, including Australia, Sweden and Denmark. Pretty impressive for a guy who now spends his Thursdays happily covered in dog hair.
When Dennis first started visiting, he was quiet, seemed a little unsure of himself and —between you and me — he didn’t smell like dog treats. But week after week, he kept showing up. And then one Thursday, something magical happened …
Dennis brought cookies.
Not just any cookies — the best cookies. The kind that make a dog sit a little straighter, wag a little harder and momentarily forget any shred of “professional training.” My fellow canines and I may or may not lose our collective minds when Dennis walks in. Katie Hearne calls us “slightly unprofessional,” but let’s be honest — when a man brings treats AND pets you just right, how are you supposed to keep your composure?
But Dennis isn’t just the treat guy. Nope. He’s so much more.
Dennis has this thing he does — it’s quiet, simple, but pure magic. He grooms me. And let me tell you, not all humans have the patience for my golden locks. He sits down, takes his time, and brushes me with the gentleness of a best friend who just gets you. It’s not just about looking good (though, let’s face it, I’m a handsome fella). It’s about feeling safe, loved and cared for.
And Dennis? He’s got this way about him. He doesn’t rush. He doesn’t expect anything in return. He just shows up — week after week, brush in hand, kindness in his heart.
Dennis may have come to WCC looking for healing, but somewhere along the way, he started helping us heal, too. He may not play favorites (or so he says), but between you and me, I know I’ve got a special place in his heart. And on Thursdays? He’s got a special place in mine.
So, this Valentine’s Day, I want to say something important:
Dennis, thank you.
Thank you for the cookies.
Thank you for the cuddles.
Thank you for the grooming sessions.
Thank you for showing up — for us, for yourself and for everyone who needs a little love.
I’ll be waiting by the gate this Thursday, Dennis — tail wagging, ready for treats and looking forward to our weekly cuddle session.
With love (and a little extra dog hair),
Mike 🐾
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