Therapy dog 'Buddy' enjoys birthday party

Buddy, the therapy dog who comes to work with Chateau Girardeau's social services designee Joyce Stacy, recently celebrated his second birthday.

Like any typical two-year-old, Buddy just wouldn't let up on the barking until he had the chance to open all his gifts and play with them, according to Stacy.

"He ate ice cream and cake and some of the residents were a little concerned he might have a bellyache but all he did when he got home that night was sleep," said Stacy.

The number of guests in attendance hadn't dropped since his first birthday party when 50 shared in the celebration. It was standing-room only in the Health Center Activity Room at Chateau Girardeau, with live entertainment by Mary and the Four K's.

Buddy's celebration surely reflected the unique and important role he plays at Chateau Girardeau.

Buddy's career at the Chateau began when he was just six weeks old. Stacy selected the golden retriever puppy from the Humane Society because of the breed's reputation for excellent interaction with nursing home patients. He uplifts and interacts with residents daily, visiting their rooms where he receives attention in the form of conversation, pats and belly rubs.