Gus & Betty Boop
Veteran: Gus
Service Dog: Betty Boop
“Betty Boop” has been a wonderful life-changing experience for the whole family. If I could describe our relationship in two words, it would be: “magical connection”. This is because after only a few months together we were able to communicate with each other with just looks and signs.
In the beginning, I was reluctant to believe that I could form a bond with her, but Betty Boop was able to work herself into my life to become my reliable companion and my walking partner. The first night I brought Betty home she impressed me when she woke me up from a nightmare by pawing my chest. A few days later, I realized that every time I wake up at night, she came to sit in front of me. I did not understand what she was doing or why, until one night I used her to help myself up, that was when I realized that she was there to brace for me and help me up. As time passed by, Betty Boop and I got closer; she was able to detect my unexpected moments of anguish and helps me ease my mind by pawing, nosing, and licking me.
Betty Boop has won over family and friends with her joyful presence. I taught her to give five with one paw and ten with two paws and to even bump my fist with her paw. She also bonded with Kiwi, our other female dog. They spend a good deal of time together playing around the house or just napping close to each other, but Betty is always responsive to my call.
The arrival of Betty Boop in our life has been a positive game changer. She has become a member of the family, always bringing us joy. I am grateful for the support of Rose, Caleb, and Larry as well as the opportunity given to me by Veterans Assistance Dogs of Texas.
Agustín “Gus” Quiñones Vargas
MAJ, US Army, Retired
