Dog That Was Kicked Out Of Guide Training Finds New Way To Help

A black Labrador in Australia who originally trained to be a guide dog, but was later determined to be unfit for the job, has found a new career as a therapy dog at a cancer center in Sydney. Marcus was born at the Guide Dogs Centre in 2020 and started training at eight weeks old but was later reclassified after being described as having an “unwillingness to work.” He then shifted to a new career path better suited to his affectionate and calm temperament.

In 2022, Marcus was matched with oncologist Dr. Lina Pugliano, founder of the Cancer Fit medical center, after a two-year application process. He now lives with her and accompanies her to work each day, greeting patients, sitting in on consultations, and offering quiet comfort during treatment. If someone is upset, Marcus settles beside them, resting his head on their leg or staying close during appointments. He’s become so popular that he’s even had to go on a diet after gaining a few pounds from treats given by grateful patients.

Guide Dogs NSW has more than 650 therapy dogs currently working across New South Wales in schools, courtrooms, aged care facilities, and clinics. To qualify, therapy dogs need to have the right temperament, respond well to cues, and stay calm around medical equipment and mobility aids. He may not have had what it takes to be a guide dog, but Marcus has clearly found the role he was meant for.