A Tribute to Chance: Celebrating a Legacy of Love and Service

On a warm day at Freddy’s, we gathered to celebrate the retirement of a truly remarkable therapy dog, Chance. Known for his gentle spirit and love for “Pup Cups” from Freddy’s after each visit, Chance touched countless lives during his 7 years and 2 months of therapy work. His retirement party was a fitting tribute to his years of service, where he was surrounded by friends, family, and fans who adored him just as much as he adored them.

Chance’s stats are impressive:

• 905 visits
• 979.75 hours of service
• 21,327 people impacted
• 35,224 miles traveled

But it was more than just numbers—Chance had a gift for making people feel seen and loved. Whether visiting hospitals, hospice centers, the Ronald McDonald House, or Rolling Ridge Riding, he brought warmth, joy, and comfort to those who needed it most. His final two weeks were filled with victory visits and victory walks, where he shared his love with all of the places that had become home to him over the years.

But just two weeks after his retirement celebration, Chance’s journey took a final turn. On September 3, 2024, we said goodbye to our beloved boy.

Chance’s passing came with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for his life and the bond he shared with so many. He was loved deeply, not only by his human family but also by all the lives he touched. He lived his life with unwavering joy, including his cherished “Freddy’s Pup Cups” and his love for exploring the outdoors. Despite his declining health, Chance held on long enough to say his goodbyes and share his love one last time. His last moments were spent surrounded by his loved ones, and he found peace, knowing that his work was done.

Chance was greeted by many familiar faces in the afterlife, including his fellow therapy dogs and the humans who had been part of his journey. He sent his love to his favorite people, including his dear friend, Francis, and even passed along a hug to Greg from Laura Beth, Aiden, Lisa, and others. Chance also reunited with his old friends, including Keno, Atreyu, Clooney, and Duncan. He made sure to pass along well wishes from Razor, Ezra, and Hogan, and expressed love to all those who had been part of his extraordinary life.

And then, as if orchestrated by fate, Chance was reunited with his Grandma Steele and Grandpa, whom he never met on Earth but who had been the ones to introduce his family to the love of Great Danes.

While Chance may no longer be with us physically, his legacy lives on. His spirit will continue through Big Ben, who will now carry the torch for Great Dane Therapy hugs.

Chance, you were truly one of a kind. Thank you for all the love, joy, and healing you brought to the world. You will always be remembered and cherished in the hearts of those who had the privilege to meet you.

Run free, Chance. You earned it.

Love, Chance’s Family