My dog's name: "Mia"

Hometown: Pompano Beach, FL

How we met: Gift from my daughter

What makes my dog special: Her unique way with elderly patients

My dog's likes/dislikes: Fabulous guard dog when it comes to me. Does not like anyone invading my space. Her favorite treat is Honey Nut Cheerios.


mindyandmia

11 minutes ago

I have spent the better part of this year taking care of a loved one who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. My teacup chihuahua, "Mia"tagged along with me each day as part of the caregiving process. She immediately bonded with his cat, and added daily smiles and chuckles that broke up his usual routine. My daughter gave her to me last year as an early Christmas gift from a breeder in Idaho. Mia was only 8 weeks old and could fit in the palm of my hand. She just turned one year old this month, but still remains quite small...she only weighs 3 lbs. I never would have thought I'd be the type to own a lap dog, but here I am with the most wonderful animal on the planet. She's been house-trained and paper trained for over six months, and she's very obedient, not to mention lovable. Mia goes everywhere with me, and dresses up for every occasion. (she has over 30 outfits)

When my loved one entered a Hospice facility in July, Mia was invited to visit him daily. In the process, I couldn't make it down the hall to his room without relatives of other patients begging me to bring Mia in to see their loved one. Thus, an idea was born, and I have now started my own business. "Mindy & Mia, Partners in Pampering" - Unique TLC for Humans. Mia and I are due tol become official Hospice Volunteers as soon as we complete our certification.

Everyone at Hospice was so great when my loved one was there, that I really wanted to give something back. I was laid off from position as Head Writer for a multimedia firm last October, and have not been able to obtain a position in my field of expertise since. I am excited to embark on this new adventure with Mia. I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would give up a career in writing to work with a chihuahua, but the rewards have been absolutely priceless.