Christine Keating and four-year-old Golden Retriever Romulus are among the most recent additions to the Hopkins Hounds Therapy Dog program. After just two months of volunteering at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, the pair is already making a meaningful impact.
Christine was inspired to become a therapy dog handler as an empty nester looking to dedicate more time to volunteering.
Romulus holds a special place in Christine’s life. His owner is currently deployed with the Air Force, and Christine has made sure he has a loving second home where he can thrive and bring joy to others. Their bond is evident to everyone who meets them.
One of the moments that stands out most to Christine is how often travelers tell her they miss their own dogs and how much it brightens their day to spend a few minutes with Romulus.
For Christine, the best part of being on the Hopkins Hounds team is watching both adults and children light up as they pet Romulus.
“Volunteering makes the difference for so many people,” she said when asked what she would tell someone considering becoming a Hopkins Hounds handler.
Known as the Chief Happiness Officer, Romulus brings smiles, comfort, and a little extra happiness to travelers and staff alike with every wag of his tail.
To learn more about the Hopkins Hounds Therapy Dog program, click here.
