Sometimes, the most effective remedy isn’t found in a bottle or a pill.
It’s the simple, heartfelt gestures that can make all the difference – just like in the story below.
Meet Dr. Ross Henderson, a compassionate veterinarian from Fox Hollow Animal Hospital in Colorado.
In addition to caring for his furry patients, he has a unique way of comforting them that’s not with medicine.
It’s with music.
One day, a golden retriever puppy named Ruby was scheduled to be spayed.
As the moment approached, Ruby’s anxiety was evident.
She was restless, pacing around her kennel and whimpering – obviously nervous about what was going on.
But Dr. Henderson had a plan.
“She was running around and jumping up on the kennel, whimpering,” Henderson shared with The Dodo. “I had my guitar there, so I decided to sing to her.”
His song choice? Elvis Presley’s dreamy classic, “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”
And just like magic, Ruby’s anxiety melted away.
“She calmed down and put her head on my lap. It’s a good testimony to how effective music can be.”
This wasn’t a one-time thing.
Dr. Henderson and his team have always used the power of song to soothe their animal patients.
It’s a tradition that brings a touch of home to the clinical environment, making the animals feel loved and at ease.
Dr. Henderson proudly keeps his guitar at the office.
For many pets, a visit to the vet is a new and potentially scary experience.
He explained to The Dodo:
“A lot of pets have never been to a veterinary hospital before, so anything we can do to love on them is good — especially considering how much love they give to us.”
But, as with all things, there are exceptions.
The clinic’s resident cat, Greg, seems rather indifferent to the musical performances.
However, most animals respond positively.
And if this story inspires even one person to serenade their pet, Dr. Henderson would consider it a win.
“If we can inspire people to love on their pets by singing to them, then it’s a victory for sure.”
Scientifically speaking, music’s impact on dogs is more than just anecdotal.
Studies have shown that certain types of music, particularly classical melodies, can have a calming effect on canines.
The rhythms and harmonies in these tunes seem to reduce stress levels, lower heart rates, and even decrease barking in some dogs.
This is believed to be because the frequencies in such music resonate with the natural frequencies perceived by dogs.
By no surprise, the video of Dr. Henderson serenading Ruby with an Elvis song went viral and has melted hearts across the internet.
In a world where we often seek complex solutions, it’s heartwarming to see that sometimes, all it takes is a song and a little love to make a difference.
Press play below to listen to his beautiful singing for yourself!
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