THE NEW BARKER 57 www.TheNewBarker.com To stay in touch with his four daughters,Todd also began photographing Zammy’s antics, and posting them to an Instagram (@ZammyPup) account. One of Zammy’s photos went viral and overnight, he became the world’s therapy dog, growing from a mere 62 followers to more than 100,000 fans. Todd calls it Zammy’s butterfly effect. Many people who follow Zammy check in with him every day. It was becoming clear to Todd that Zammy had the power to change people’s lives. “One follower contacted me privately through social media. She wrote that she was going to commit suicide, but when she saw Zammy’s post, she told me,‘I just decided not to do it.’ She continues to engage with Zammy’s posts every day.” Since then,Todd makes sure to keep Zammy’s post current. Through Zammy,Todd has learned the importance of just being kind.“Kind is a good adjective for Zammy. It sums him up,”Todd said.“His kindness has worn off on me, which wears off on other people. He’s an inspiration to everyone.” Antonio (left) and his brother Nicholas with Zammy at Shriners Hospitals for Children, Tampa. When Antonio lost the use of his legs, he told Wayne, his father, that all he wanted to do again was run. “I wanna be the fastest person in the world,” said Antonio, who was in a wheelchair for two and a half years. His brother Nicholas is his biggest support- er. “Antonio has always been a happy kid. But, when he got out of that wheelchair, he was the happiest I have ever seen him,” said Wayne, who affectionately calls his son Forrest Gump. “He loves coming here. He told me they treat him like a king.” Of Zammy, Antonio said, “He’s soft and fluffy and always makes me feel good.” Therapy dogs are not service dogs and do not have the same special access. For information on becoming a therapy dog team, visit Therapy Dogs International: TDI-Dog.org. You may also want to check with your local dog training club. U Y HOO-Ray For DOXIEWOOD www.Doxapalooza.org A Wienerful Opportunity to Show Your Support for Join us for our 13th annual DOXAPALOOZA. DACHSHUNDS ON THE RED CARPET FOR A CAUSE. Saturday, November 3, 2018 10a-4p (rain or shine) The Sun-N-Fun Event Pavilion 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811