B.C. dog in wheelchair makes positive impact in community of people with special needs

Adam finds out how a little dog in a wheelchair is making a big impact at her owner’s work.

VICTORIA, B.C. — Chelsey Cullihall never expected to have a canine as a co-worker.

“She’s has been probably one of our best employees,” Cullihall says with a smile, before cradling Hoot in her arms while typing on her office computer.

But then again, Cullihall never expected the boundless Boston terrier that she adopted to start losing control of her back legs.

“It was super scary,” Cullihall says.

It was a debilitating neurological condition thar requires Hoot to wear a wheelchair, so she could remain fast and furiously affectionate.

“She’s very energetic,” Cullihall says. “Very loving and cuddly.”

And now that Hoot works with Cullihall at a day program for people with developmental disabilities (https://www.lifetimenetworks.org/programs), she’s also very popular.

“Every time I walk into a room it’s, ‘Hi Hoot!’” Cullihall laughs. “(And then) ‘Oh yeah, and Chelsey. You’re here too.’”

But no one is more pleased to see the pup than Edwin. He begins patting Hoot as soon as she arrives.

“He instantly liked her,” Cullihall says. “But over a short amount of time he started to love her.”

Seeing as Edwin seems to be a man of few words, his and Hoot’s love language is spoken through gestures.

“Who’s on your hat?” Cullihall asks Edwin about the cartoon dog on his hat.

“Hootie,” Edwin answers.

And if actions speak louder than words — not only is Hoot on Edwin’s hat, she’s also on his keychain, his lunch bag, and on his Christmas sweater — it’s very clear how he feel about his furry friend.

“He likes being around her and she likes being around him,” Cullihall says after Hoot gets out of her wheelchair and cuddles up close with Edwin on the couch, falling asleep while he gently pats her. “It’s just this gentle caring relationship they have.”

It’s the way Hoot helps, by showing that no matter what challenges we may be facing separately, we will overcome them together.

“Having a friend who doesn’t judge you and wants to hang out with you just because you’re you, is the best,” Cullihall smiles. “It’s the ultimate win.”