Source: @kailahess4
For many of us, juggling work or school responsibilities while caring for a pet, especially a dog, might seem like a challenge. Dogs are loving creatures that often seek our undivided attention, sometimes using the most creative tactics to get it. They’d much prefer we skipped our daily duties to play with them instead. But what happens when your dog not only respects your busy schedule but becomes a part of it?
Dogs That Adapt to Your Routine
There are some dogs that seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, not only adapting to our routines but also contributing in surprisingly helpful ways. This was the case for Kaila Hess, a nursing student from Bentonville, Arkansas, who found a unique way to merge her studies with caring for her Golden Retriever, Ryder.
Source: @kailahess4
How a Nursing Student Found the Perfect “Patient”
Kaila, who juggles her studies with a part-time job as a veterinary technician, faced a dilemma when one of her university assignments required her to practice a physical assessment, but she found herself without a human volunteer. That’s when she turned to Ryder. In a delightful twist, Ryder didn’t just participate; he excelled, offering himself as the perfect patient for Kaila to practice her skills.
The Task at Hand
The assignment was straightforward but crucial: perform a complete nursing physical assessment as if in a real clinical setting. With no one else at home, Ryder became Kaila’s willing participant. Laid out on a makeshift hospital bed, Ryder patiently waited as Kaila checked his heart rate, examined his eyes, paws, and throat. The session was not only a practice for Kaila but also turned into a bonding session with Ryder, proving that dogs can indeed be the best partners, even in the most professional tasks.
A Viral Sensation on Social Media
Source: @kailahess4
Realizing the uniqueness of the situation, Kaila decided to capture these moments on video, sharing them on her TikTok account @kailahess4. The video showcased Ryder’s patience and compliance and highlighted Kaila’s nurturing approach as a nursing student. It wasn’t long before the video captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, quickly garnering millions of views and becoming a viral sensation.
The Best “Patient” Ever
The feedback from the online community was overwhelmingly positive. Viewers were charmed by Ryder’s demeanor and impressed by his role as a patient. Comments flooded in, praising Ryder as “the best patient ever” while others humorously noted that a dog would do just about anything for treats. However, the consensus was clear: Ryder was not just doing it for the snacks; he was genuinely a supportive companion.
More Than Just a Cute Video
This incident highlights a broader narrative about the potential roles pets can play in our lives beyond just companionship. For students and professionals who often feel isolated in their academic or career pursuits, having a pet like Ryder can provide not only emotional support but also practical assistance, even in unexpected ways.
Pets as Emotional and Practical Support
Pets, particularly dogs, are known to offer significant emotional support. However, as Kaila and Ryder’s story shows, their role can extend into practical realms, providing comfort and aid in tasks that require focus and calm. For those facing stressful tasks alone, a pet can be a reassuring presence, offering a sense of companionship and even helping maintain a routine.
Integrating Pets into Your Work or Study Routine
If you’re considering integrating your pet into your work or study routines, it’s important to do so thoughtfully. Ensure that the activities are safe and comfortable for your pet, and remember that every animal has a different tolerance for participation. What worked for Ryder might not be suitable for every pet, but with patience and training, many dogs can engage in various supportive roles.
The Takeaway
Kaila and Ryder’s story is more than just a heartwarming video; it’s a testament to the multifaceted roles that pets can play in our lives. Whether it’s providing emotional support, helping with physical tasks, or simply being a comforting presence, pets like Ryder show that they are indeed capable of much more than we might assume. So, the next time you find yourself needing a little extra help at home, school, or work, perhaps look no further than your furry friend.
