Regional Area: Central
Breed: Golden Retriever
Clark has a wonderful way of making people feel that he remembers them and loves them, and he’s always more than eager to see them again. A natural at posing for the camera, he never misses an opportunity to have his photo taken with one of his many admirers.
Since Sarah works at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies in Orlando as a certified nurse midwife, they love giving other healthcare workers stress relief. Clark also loves visits to the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. He loves to stop by some of the private patients’ rooms, visit with members of the staff and greet many of the visitors who come and go while they are there. But some of our most enjoyable times are those spent dressing up and taking part in their various holiday celebrations. Clark enjoys nothing more than when scores of children come by to visit, pet him and, of course, snap his photos!
Last year, all of the therapy dogs for the hospital were invited to participate in Arnie’s March against Children’s Cancer, a fundraiser held annually during the Arnold Palmer Invitational golf tournament. Clark was in his element there, and LOVED every minute of it! The hospital also sponsored a 5K event commemorating the anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando. Clark, along with many other therapy dogs, was there to meet and greet those attending the event and, of course, pose for photos with them. He also loved being outdoors at the Valencia College East campus providing stress relief for the students during their study breaks.
Recently, Clark started taking dock diving lessons. Imagine that! It proves that you definitely can teach an old dog new tricks. But his silly antics and sweet ways are what truly melt hearts. He loves his stuffed animals and uses a pillow when he sleeps. He often moans and sighs as if he’s trying to communicate verbally. He’s very bossy if he wants mom to pet him, and he’s not getting the attention he thinks he deserves.
Training/Certifications:
Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD)
Hearts of Gold Therapy Team
Watch our Hearts of Gold Therapy Teams in action: Hearts of Gold YouTube channel
Clark retired in March 2024 and his gentle way of soothing others will be missed from our Hearts of Gold team. Happy retirement Clark!
