By Jamie Myers, American Red Cross Volunteer

The hallway of the hospital smelled like popcorn and coffee, a mix of snacks and warmth. Georgie — a 4-year-old, 104-lb St. Bernard with big brown eyes and a welcoming nature — trotted confidently down the corridor, her massive paws softly hitting the floor.

Volunteering at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center as a Red Cross therapy dog is one of Georgie's favorite things to do. Her job is simple: to be there.  

Today, she stopped by multiple rooms, including where a man named George was staying. George Williams served in the United States Navy from 1964-1968, taking three separate deployments on aircraft carriers to the Gulf of Tonkin.

In early 2025, Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Hospital in Spokane, Washington has become a second home for George, quite literally. He spent over three months there while being treated for a severe infection. One of the things he looks forward to most are the visits from Georgie.

Georgie's owner, Red Cross volunteer Lorelei, said she sees a visible difference when Georgie comes into a room. "They throw their arms around her and squeeze her — she is very responsive," shares Lorelei. 

She goes on to say that she does not leave the room "until the veteran lets go of Georgie.”

Georgie started out life as a family pet, but soon found her calling after Lorelei fell ill and depended on the strength of Georgie and her large stature to help her learn to walk again. It was during this difficult season that Lorelei realized just what she had in Georgie.... a top notch therapy dog. 

In November 2024, when Lorelei was back on her feet, she got Georgie credentialed through Pet Partners. To achieve this credential, Georgie had to complete several training classes, evaluations and tests, which she always passed on the first try! 

Georgie thrives in her calling as a Red Cross Therapy Dog and looks forward to the stray popcorn and ear scratches with every visit to the veteran’s hospital. 

Learn more about our work to serve the military community, from the moment of enlistment through life after service.