We always hear stories about humans rescuing dogs. But without even knowing it, canines are also helping people have better lives as well. In their own little ways, pups can give a certain kind of comfort that allows others to recover from their past.
Keema Hutcherson’s story was featured in a documentary film by Mutual Rescue, a group that aims to show to the world how pets can help their hoomans heal from challenging experiences in life. The film is called Keema & Her Pack.
As the eldest daughter among 15 siblings, with a mom that had drug problems and a dad who was in prison, Keema had a very tough start at life. She had to take care of her family but it was a very hard responsibility, especially for a teenager like her.
Eventually, her dad got released from prison but they had a big problem when he found out that Keema was a lesbian. This is when she decided that it was time for her to move out and become independent. But it wasn’t easy because of the 2008 recession that left her with only a few job options.
Luckily, Keema applied to a doggie daycare facility and got accepted. On her first day at work, she was very nervous and overwhelmed seeing the room full of dogs. But thanks to a Rottweiler named Boogie, she felt surprised that the pooch approached her and was very friendly.
Boogie placed his big paws on Keema’s shoulders and started licking her face as if welcoming her. She felt like the doggo knew all the pain that she was going through and wanted to comfort her. From that moment on, Keema knew that she needed dogs in her life.
Since Boogie’s hooman had to travel a lot, Keema spent a lot of time with the pooch and grew closer to him. While she loves the Rottweiler very much, she doesn’t have any favorites among the dogs that she takes care of. She believes that every one of them is special.
Keema eventually started her own dog walking business in New York City that has been running for more than over a decade. She now lives happily with her wife, their daughter, and a dog named Mr. Bentley. Keema believes that she owes a lot of her healing to Boogie.
Video Credit: Mutual Rescue
