Women's Health November 12, 2026 0 Comments

The Unexpected Healing Power of a Rescue Dog: How One Canine Transformed a Daughter’s Final Journey with Her Father

November rolls in, bringing with it a special spotlight on Family Caregivers Month—a time to raise a glass (or maybe just a well-earned coffee) to the everyday heroes who quietly put others first. Ever thought about what it takes to juggle the emotional marathon of caregiving while keeping your own heart intact? That’s the question that hits home when you hear stories like Susan Hartzler’s. Now, here’s the twist—Susan didn’t just face the trials of caring for her father with Parkinson’s disease; she had an unexpectedly compassionate sidekick: her dog, Baldwin. This furry friend wasn’t just a pet; he became a healing force, a source of strength, and a reminder that sometimes, support comes on four paws. As November nudges us to honor caregivers everywhere, let’s dive into Susan’s moving journey—a tale of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between human and dog that kept her going through the toughest days. LEARN MORE

November is Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the countless individuals who selflessly care for loved ones, often putting their own needs aside to make sure someone they love feels supported, safe, and cared for. To all of our readers who are caregivers, we see you, we appreciate you and we want to celebrate the incredible difference you make, even when your hard work and sacrifices go unnoticed.

This month, we’re shining a light on the stories of caregivers whose compassion and dedication inspire us. One story that especially touched our hearts is that of Susan Hartzler, whose beloved dog became an unexpected source of comfort, strength and companionship as she cared for her father and navigated the heartbreak of saying goodbye.

Though she will never forget Baldwin, Susan’s current pack, Rosie, Seven and Paige Turner, continue bringing hope to her life — Susan’s current pack, Rosie, Seven and Paige Turner, continue bringing hope to her lifeJon Mckee Photography

How Baldwin became her partner in caregiving

Despite being a lifelong animal lover, Susan Hartzler, 65, was shocked at the power of a dog’s compassion and ability to help her navigate the emotional journey of caring for—and saying goodbye to—her beloved father. Years later, dogs are still filling her heart with joy and giving her strength as she once again steps in as a caretaker, this time for a dear friend. Here, Susan shares her caregiving story with Woman’s World.

“Twenty years ago, I was heartbroken after losing my dear rescue dog Blondie, my steadfast companion with golden fur and a no-nonsense attitude who had stood by me during the rollercoaster years of dating and heartbreak. To ease my pain, my mother gifted me another rescue puppy I named Baldwin, knowing how much I was grieving and how deeply I connected with my dogs.

“Ironically, Baldwin was her final gift to me — a living testament of her love — as she died unexpectedly and peacefully in her sleep just six months later. Little did I know that this furry rescue Puli with a curly coat, soulful eyes and one-of-a-kind personality would turn out to be quite profound. Shortly after her passing, I left behind my high-profile PR career in the travel industry and returned home to take over my mother’s role as primary caregiver for my father, who had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.

“Determined to honor my mother’s commitment that my father would remain in his home, Baldwin — who had been my emotional anchor through grief after the loss of Blondie and then as a caregiver to my mom — became my caregiving partner. Managing Dad’s doctor appointments, medications, meals and daily routines like meal prep and grocery shopping, I was my father’s companion, advocate and unwavering voice who ensured he had a life filled with dignity, connection and fun.

Susan with her beloved dad before he passedSusan Hartzler

Finding peace in four paws

“When things got rough, as they inevitably did, I found solace and perspective in nature, taking Baldwin on walks that helped me clear my head and reset emotionally. Baldwin had a keen ability to always know exactly what I needed, often before I did. He amused my dad by curling up at his feet or performing some goofy antic and the many tricks I taught him that would bring a rare yet genuine smile to my father’s face.

“Dad’s first Parkinson’s-related hallucination happened when we were sitting in the den, but my dad insisted he needed to ‘go home.’ He was frightened, confused and inconsolable, so after a few minutes I clipped on Baldwin’s leash and guided my dad outside to walk down the driveway. As we returned inside, his panic subsided, and that short outing grounded him back in reality. That moment illuminated how I subconsciously always looked to Baldwin for guidance, and he had an intuitive way of helping me read the moment and respond in ways that actually worked.

“Whether offering Dad comfort or giving me the nudge to step outside and breathe, Baldwin became the calm in my storm. He didn’t just support me — he helped me figure out how to support my dad. He walked beside me through one of the hardest chapters of my life with quiet strength, fierce loyalty and a kind of intuitive wisdom that no training could ever teach. Just watching him do something simple, like catch his beloved frisbee, helped me stay grounded when the days blurred together and emotions ran high. Baldwin reminded me that there was still laughter, light and love — even in the midst of grief and uncertainty.

“When my dad passed, three years after I moved back to care for him, Baldwin never left my side. He helped me create new routines, gave me reasons to get outside and anchored me through the waves of grief. In his quiet, unassuming way, he helped me begin to heal.

“Baldwin taught me how to slow down, how to truly listen, how to show up even when it’s uncomfortable. I discovered strength I didn’t know I had and depths of love that surprised me. He also taught me that you don’t have to go through it alone — and that dogs can be healers in their own right. It inspired me to write the book The Peace Puppy — to honor Baldwin and the lessons he gave me throughout the 13 years I had him.

Baldwin brought joy and peace to Susan’s heartSusan Hartzler

A new chapter of caregiving

“A year ago, I stepped back into the role of caregiver, caring for the husband of a dear friend who passed away a year ago. This time, I’m supported by my current pack of rescue pups: Rosie, 13; Seven, 10; and Paige Turner, 5. Together, they bring joy, structure and lightness to our days. They offer companionship to me and to my cherished friend on our daily outings to the park, where the dogs amuse us with their antics and offer unconditional affection and a comforting presence.

“Just like Baldwin once did, they help me carry the emotional load and remind me to slow down and savor the small things — the happy dance that says, ‘I’m glad you’re here,’ the warmth of a snuggle, the simple gift of being together.”