Podcast Summary: Robin's Nest from American Humane

Episode Title: Dayo’s Journey: From Cheetah Companion to Hero Therapy Dog
Release Date: March 17, 2025
Host: Dr. Robin Ganzert
Guest: Liz Stewart, Therapy Dog Handler
Featured Dog: Dayo, a Rhodesian Ridgeback Therapy Dog

Introduction

In this heartwarming episode of Robin's Nest, Dr. Robin Ganzert welcomes Liz Stewart, a dedicated full-time volunteer therapy dog handler from Dublin, California. Liz shares the extraordinary journey of her therapy dog, Dayo, highlighting his unique beginnings and transformative role in providing comfort to individuals in need.

Dayo's Origin: From Cheetah Companion to Therapy Dog

[00:01 - 03:02]

Liz begins by recounting how Dayo entered her life. Purchased on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dayo initially served as a companion to Pancake, a cheetah at the Wildlife Safari Park in Winston, Oregon. Both Dayo and Pancake were born on the same day, February 28th, and were inseparable from six weeks old. Their bond was profound, with Pancake acting as Dayo's support animal. Tragically, Pancake passed away just shy of their third birthday, necessitating Dayo's rehoming due to his longing for her presence.

Dr. Robin Ganzert remarks, “[04:15] Robin: And we’re saying the name Dayo. Can you share with everyone, what does Dayo mean?"
[04:15] Liz Stewart: "Dayo means joy arrives."

Transition to Therapy Work

[03:02 - 08:55]

After Pancake's passing, Liz wondered if Dayo would adapt to a new home. Despite initial concerns about his transition from a cheetah enclosure to a family home, Dayo settled seamlessly, displaying a calm and gentle temperament. Although Rhodesian Ridgebacks are traditionally bred to hunt lions, Dayo's demeanor contrasts sharply as he is more of a "couch potato," much to the delight of the children he interacts with.

Liz explains her motivation, “[09:31] Liz Stewart: I think because. Especially because of Dayo. When I bring him into the room and see their smiles, it just makes my day.”

Therapy Work: Bringing Comfort and Joy

[06:01 - 15:09]

Dayo accompanies Liz to various facilities, including George Mart Children's House and Lucille Packard Children's Hospital. At these locations, Dayo provides respite and emotional support to children undergoing palliative care, cancer treatment, and end-of-life stages. His presence offers a temporary escape and much-needed comfort to patients and their families.

One poignant moment shared by Liz involves a child named Molly, who enjoys walking with Dayo by fountains, creating joyful memories despite her circumstances. Another touching story features Charlie, a longstanding patient at the George Mart Children's House, who bonds with Dayo through gentle interactions.

At Camp Aaron, a grief-processing camp, Dayo and other therapy dogs engage with children, helping them navigate loss and emotional challenges. Liz recounts an event where a child chose to lay with Dayo all day, illustrating the profound impact these therapy dogs have.

Training and Certification: Preparing for Therapy Work

[15:09 - 19:56]

For listeners inspired to volunteer, Liz outlines the training process for becoming a certified therapy dog handler. The steps include:

1. Basic Obedience Classes: Completion of one and two classes to establish foundational skills.
2. Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certification: A five to six-week course culminating in a test, similar to therapy dog evaluations.
3. Mentorship: Shadowing experienced handlers like Liz and Dayo during facility visits.

Liz emphasizes the importance of selecting dogs with the right disposition and notes that Dayo, with his innate ability to connect, exemplifies the qualities needed for successful therapy work.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed: A Unique Choice for Therapy

[17:58 - 19:56]

Liz shares her personal connection to Rhodesian Ridgebacks, stemming from her husband's Rhodesian heritage. This breed, known for its majestic appearance and hunting background, surprises many with its suitability for therapy work. Liz counters the common misconception that Ridgebacks are too energetic for such roles by showcasing Dayo's calm and empathetic nature.

“[19:34] Robin: …you don’t associate that [peace] with the Ridgeback, you know, But I love it.”
[19:56] Liz Stewart: “…because when they tell me the age, I tell them, I started with Chloe when she was six and a half, but Dayo, I started him when he was three.”

Recognition and Impact: Hero Dog Awards

[19:56 - 22:45]

Dayo's exceptional work earned him recognition in the 14th Annual Hero Dog Awards by American Humane. This accolade underscores his remarkable transition from a cheetah companion to a celebrated therapy dog. Dayo's appearance on the Today Show further amplified his influence, inspiring others to recognize the profound impact therapy dogs can have.

Liz reflects on the honor, “[20:09] Liz Stewart: It's amazing. It means so much to us, and I love that it's highlighting, you know, what Dayo does and what I do.”

Looking Ahead: Inspiring Future Hero Dogs

[22:45 - 23:09]

As Dayo continues his mission, Liz hopes his story will inspire the next generation of therapy dogs. She envisions Dayo as a trailblazer, encouraging more individuals to undertake therapy dog training and expand the reach of animal-assisted therapy.

“[22:45] Liz Stewart: He just knows what they need. That's his superpower.”
[23:09] Robin: “And your superpower is your heart.”

Conclusion

Dr. Robin Ganzert and Liz Stewart conclude the episode by celebrating Dayo's achievements and the vital role therapy dogs play in enhancing the lives of those facing medical and emotional challenges. Liz's unwavering dedication and Dayo's compassionate nature embody the mission of Robin's Nest—building a more humane world through the powerful bond between humans and animals.

Listeners are encouraged to watch Dayo's Hero Dog Awards video on American Humane's YouTube channel, with a friendly reminder to have tissues on hand for the emotional journey.

Notable Quotes:

• Liz Stewart [04:15]: "Dayo means joy arrives."
• Liz Stewart [09:31]: "When I bring him into the room and see their smiles, it just makes my day."
• Liz Stewart [19:56]: "If they're a Dayo disposition, they can start at three years of age."
• Robin Ganzert [19:34]: "You don’t associate that [peace] with the Ridgeback, you know, But I love it."
• Robin Ganzert [22:45]: “What is Dayo's superpower?”
• Liz Stewart [22:45]: "He just knows what they need. That's his superpower."

For more inspiring stories and discussions on animal welfare, subscribe to Robin's Nest and stay tuned for upcoming episodes.