Psychology Today defines “Therapy” as “a form of treatment aimed at relieving emotional distress and mental health problems.” Thus, by this definition, the IDB IS Therapy
The American Kennel Association defines a Therapy Dog as “dogs who go with their owners to volunteer in settings such as schools, hospitals, and nursing homes … and … work together as a team to improve the lives of other people.” Thus, by this definition, this little heart-throb is a Therapy Dog.

Meet Doug the Pug
Doug LOVES a good hug
Doug’s REAL name is “Tito” … or more formally, his registered AKC name is “Heubergs Thors Hammer.” Tito/Doug joined the family April 8, 2021.

Tito was born October 3, 2020, and his Dad is Grand Champion pug Hurricane Lloyd. That’s Lloyd pictured working out for his next competition – literally one of the fastest Pugs in America – if “fast” and “pug’ may cohabit the same sentence.
Tito is pure, unadulterated love, and an immediate friend-maker.

Doug spends a lot of time sniffing around the IDB with his buddy and now step-brother, Moose. They instantly connected – because, well, Moose needs a little therapy as well. Perhaps a lot.

“Doug” got his IDB nickname from a guest – similar to the sample guest pictured to the right. Let’s refer to the guest as “Steve” for the sake of discussion. Tito took a fond interest in “Steve” and “Steve” Tito. “Steve” suggested that he may abscond with Tito, whence he would change Tito’s name to “Doug, the Pug” as “Steve” craved the meaningful Therapy (to wit, working to improve the lives of other people) “Steve” was seeking and “Doug” was providing.

“Steve” eventually left, sans Tito, but “Doug” remained a both as a unabducted pet, and as a humorous moniker – and his role as Head Therapist at the IDB was cemented.
We decided to create an entire page showcasing “Doug” and the work he does at the IDB to improve the lives of other people, similar to “Steve.” And so, if you are ever at the IDB, Hug Doug. Take a selfie, email it to us, and we’ll share your happy face, hugging Doug, and basking in the love and snuffles this little Wrinkle Monkey will share with you.

