From Woman's World · Gina Roberts-Grey, Maggie Cady · · 1m 20s
Rescue Dog Helps Woman Care for Dying Father
Susan Hartzler's rescue Puli Baldwin eased her Parkinson's father's hallucinations and her grief.
In brief
Susan Hartzler's rescue Puli Baldwin eased her Parkinson's father's hallucinations and her grief. Susan Hartzler's rescue Puli Baldwin helped her care for her dying father by reducing Parkinson's hallucinations and providing emotional support. Originally reported by Woman's World.
Baldwin's Origin Story
Susan Hartzler lost her dog Blondie and received Baldwin, a rescue Puli, from her mother.
“Twenty years ago, I was heartbroken after losing my dear rescue dog Blondie, my steadfast companion with golden fur and a no-nonsense attitude who had stood by me during the rollercoaster years of dating and heartbreak.”
Dad's Parkinson's Diagnosis
Susan's father had Parkinson's disease for several years before Susan took over caregiving.
“Shortly after her passing, I left behind my high-profile PR career in the travel industry and returned home to take over my mother’s role as primary caregiver for my father, who had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.”
Baldwin as Caregiving Partner
Baldwin helped Susan manage her father's doctor appointments, medications, and daily routines.
“Managing Dad’s doctor appointments, medications, meals and daily routines like meal prep and grocery shopping, I was my father’s companion, advocate and unwavering voice who ensured he had a life filled with dignity, connection and fun.”
Hallucination Moment
Baldwin calmed Susan's father during a Parkinson's hallucination by taking him for a walk.
“Dad’s first Parkinson’s-related hallucination happened when we were sitting in the den, but my dad insisted he needed to ‘go home.’ He was frightened, confused and inconsolable, so after a few minutes I clipped on Baldwin’s leash and guided my dad outside to walk down the driveway.”
Baldwin's Emotional Impact
Baldwin provided Susan with comfort and helped her navigate grief after her father's death.
“When my dad passed, three years after I moved back to care for him, Baldwin never left my side. He helped me create new routines, gave me reasons to get outside and anchored me through the waves of grief.”
Baldwin's Legacy
Susan wrote a memoir about Baldwin's impact on her life and caregiving journey.
“It inspired me to write the book The Peace Puppy, to honor Baldwin and the lessons he gave me throughout the 13 years I had him.”
Current Caregiving Role
Susan now cares for a friend's husband using her current rescue dog pack.
“A year ago, I stepped back into the role of caregiver, caring for the husband of a dear friend who passed away a year ago.”
Dog Pack's Role
Rosie, Seven, and Paige Turner provide Susan with companionship and emotional support.
“Together, they bring joy, structure and lightness to our days. They offer companionship to me and to my cherished friend on our daily outings to the park.”
Baldwin's Lessons
Baldwin taught Susan to slow down, listen, and find joy in small moments.
“Baldwin taught me how to slow down, how to truly listen, how to show up even when it’s uncomfortable.”
Long-Term Impact
Baldwin's influence continues through Susan's current dog pack and her memoir.
“Just like Baldwin once did, they help me carry the emotional load and remind me to slow down and savor the small things, the happy dance that says, ‘I’m glad you’re here,’ the warmth of a snuggle, the simple gift of being together.”
The key point
Susan Hartzler's rescue Puli Baldwin helped her care for her dying father by reducing Parkinson's hallucinations and providing emotional support.
