Amarillo, TX — A golden retriever from Amarillo who spends his days comforting hospital patients is now representing Texas in a national pet competition.
Luke, a certified therapy dog, was named the Texas winner in the Pet Lovers’ Choice Awards, the first fan-voted national pet awards show launched by Best Friends Animal Society and hosted by comedian Gabriel Iglesias.
After receiving enough votes to win the state competition, Luke is now one of four Texas pets competing in the national finals.
Luke and his handler, ICU nurse Deanna Rodriguez, regularly visit patients, families and healthcare workers at BSA Hospital in Amarillo through Alliance Therapy Dogs. His family says Luke has a special ability to bring comfort during difficult moments, whether it’s helping calm a nervous patient before surgery or lifting the spirits of exhausted hospital staff…