At Blount and Curry at Garden of Memories in Tampa, a five-year-old chocolate lab-whippet mix named Bella is redefining the experience of mourning by offering a unique form of comfort as a therapy dog. Her role within the funeral home has been transformative, not only for those grieving the loss of loved ones but also for the staff.

Kaylee Wilson, the general manager of the funeral home, shared that Bella was originally adopted into the Wilson family as a pet. However, her exceptionally gentle nature soon identified her as an ideal therapy dog candidate. After completing AKC Canine Good Citizen training and further certification through the Humane Society, Bella began her work as a certified therapy dog.

Bella's presence at the funeral home includes her interaction with approximately 600 families each year who attend services and the 1,200 burials at the cemetery. She is often specifically requested to attend visitations, where she provides subtle yet profound comfort to attendees. Wilson recounts a memorable incident where Bella instinctively comforted a woman who was overwhelmed during a service, highlighting her intuitive ability to offer support exactly when and where it’s needed.

Beyond her direct impact on families, Bella significantly contributes to the emotional well-being of the funeral home staff. Working in such a profoundly emotional environment can be challenging, and Bella provides a much-needed respite for employees. Whether it’s through a quick pet, a playful break, or her attendance at staff meetings, Bella helps to lighten the atmosphere and boost morale.

The implementation of a therapy dog like Bella at a funeral home is indicative of a broader trend towards more personalized and compassionate service within the traditionally conservative funeral industry. This shift focuses on celebrating lives and providing genuine comfort and support to families in their moments of loss.

Bella’s duties extend beyond the indoor settings of funerals and visitations. She also accompanies Wilson on various tasks around the cemetery and greets families visiting their loved ones’ gravesites. Her friendly demeanor and familiar presence offer additional comfort to visitors, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the cemetery.

The success and positive reception of Bella’s role at Blount and Curry at Garden of Memories are prompting a reconsideration of traditional practices within the funeral industry. Her work illustrates how integrating therapy animals into service settings can bridge the gap between professional services and the human need for empathy and connection. Bella’s presence at the funeral home and cemetery demonstrates the potential of therapy animals to bring peace, normalcy, and a sense of comfort to environments typically associated with sorrow and grief.