Buddy and Handler Wanda

Regional Area: Central

Breed: Golden Retriever

Putting the “b” into big of heart is bright and benevolent Buddy!

The brilliant team of Buddy and Wanda specializes in visiting schools and assisted living facilities as well as attending numerous student and employee wellness events. Nothing delights Buddy more than donning his “work” vest, bounding into the car and spreading his famous four-legged joy to every person he meets.

One of Wanda’s most memorable moments, though, was when she and Buddy attended the inauguration of Dog Day at Harry P. Leu Gardens in 2023. Not only was it a beautiful fall day in Orlando, it was a spectacular success for GRRMF and Leu Gardens because they continue to welcome dogs on their specially designated day. And the icing on the proverbial cake: Buddy met Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

At home and out of his vest, Buddy enjoys hunting lizards, patrolling the backyard and going for neighborhood walks with his mom. Whenever he’s approached by a neighbor on their walk, Buddy politely sits, wags his tail and waits to be petted and petted and petted some more.

Showing his sillier side, Buddy derives the greatest pleasure out of pushing the family’s old hose reel all over the driveway, attempting to forcibly knock any resident lizards to the ground!

Training/Certifications
Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD)
Hearts of Gold Therapy Team

Watch our Hearts of Gold Therapy Teams in action: Hearts of Gold YouTube channel

To learn more about what to consider for joining our Hearts of Gold team, click here!