Julian and Julia are a devoted therapy dog team with West Michigan Therapy Dogs whose journey is as heartwarming as it is inspiring.
The Start of Something Special
Julia and Julian’s story began in February 2023, when they started the certification process together; stepping into something new without fully knowing just how meaningful it would become. Like all teams, their early days included shadow visits in a variety of environments, from Heather Hills to Wedgewood Juvenile Center and even Cabela’s. Each setting offered valuable lessons – not just about the work, but about Julian himself. As a 7-year-old, 100-pound Pyrenees/Golden Retriever mix with a thick coat, he quickly made one preference clear: cooler environments suit him best.
What started as a training journey quickly grew into something deeper. Early on, the two were told that their bond would strengthen and that emotions could travel “down the leash.” At the time, it was hard to fully grasp. But through new and sometimes uncertain situations, they’ve come to understand just how true that is. With steady eye contact, trust, and attentive listening, Julian and Julia have learned to rely on one another in a way that continues to deepen their connection.
Growing Together
Julian’s story, however, wasn’t always so calm.
As a puppy, he was known for his mischievous streak, once even climbing a four-foot chain-link fence right in front of Julia. It was a moment that left her wondering if therapy work would ever be in his future. But through patience, consistent training, and a lot of love (including working with a trainer at home), Julian grew into the gentle, intuitive companion he is today.
At home, he’s still a leader – guiding his blind brother, Magoo, a Springer Spaniel/Beagle mix, and keeping his sister Dilaney, a Pyrenees/Australian mix, in check. When he’s off duty, there’s nothing he loves more than swimming with his family in Lake Michigan.
Today, Julian and Julia can often be found volunteering at the airport, where Julian has become a favorite among travelers and TSA staff alike (and yes, the treats help too). They also participate in Exam Crams, Corewell Health lobby visits, and special one-time visits. They show up wherever they are needed most with calm energy and open hearts.
The Power of Presence
While there are many meaningful moments in their journey, one stands out as especially powerful.
During a visit at Corewell Health, a woman stopped to talk with Julia while sitting beside Julian on the floor. She was facing a difficult diagnosis involving her teenage daughter and simply needed someone to listen. As Julian offered his quiet, steady presence, Julia did just that: listened. The following month, the woman returned, this time with her daughters, seeking that same sense of comfort and peace.
What Julian and Julia provided wasn’t advice or answers. It was presence. Compassion. A safe space to simply be. And sometimes, that’s exactly what people need most.
Through experiences like this, they’ve come to understand that being a therapy team is about more than just showing up. It’s about awareness: of each other, of their surroundings, and of the unspoken needs of the people they encounter. It’s about opening their eyes, ears, and hearts, even in unfamiliar situations, and trusting the bond they’ve built together.
Julian may be 100 pounds, but his gentle, calming presence has a way of making people feel seen, supported, and at ease. Together, he and Julia continue to make a difference – one quiet, meaningful interaction at a time.
An Inspiring Journey
Julia and Julian are deeply grateful for the support and community of West Michigan Therapy Dogs, and for every opportunity to serve others. Because in the end, their journey isn’t just about becoming a therapy team, it’s about connection, growth, and the simple, powerful act of being present.
Julian and Julia’s journey is a reminder that you don’t need to have everything figured out to begin, just a willingness to grow, connect, and show up. What started as a training process became something far more meaningful, shaping not only the lives of those they visit, but their own as well. If their story inspires you, volunteering with West Michigan Therapy Dogs offers an opportunity to build that same kind of connection and make a tangible impact in the community. We invite you to learn more and begin your journey by visiting our Become a Volunteer page.