Therapy dog Marlin celebrates birthday at Woodstock Funeral Home
Woodstock dog brings comfort to grieving families
Marlin, a 7-year-old poodle, works as a certified therapy dog at Woodstock Funeral Home in downtown Woodstock.
WOODSTOCK, Ga. - Woodstock Funeral Home location manager Paige Ogle never imagined the impact Marlin would have when she got him from a friend at five and a half years old.
What they're saying:
"Once I got him home, I realized that this dog was not just a free poodle. He was priceless," Ogle said.
After noticing his calm and gentle personality, Ogle decided to have Marlin trained as a certified therapy dog, hoping he could bring the same comfort to grieving families that he brought to her.
"They're an innocent, loving, sweet, always happy thing to be around. And I thought if he makes me feel that good in a in an environment that would otherwise be classified as sad, I wonder what he would do with the families," Ogle said.
The answer, she says, has been remarkable.
Marlin has become a beloved presence at the funeral home, greeting visitors and offering a moment of joy during otherwise difficult days.
"Marlon has more reviews, positive reviews online, and is mentioned more than any person in this funeral home ever would be," Ogle said.
Marlin is part of a growing presence of therapy dogs at funeral homes across the country, where the animals provide companionship and emotional support to families navigating grief.
His popularity extends beyond the funeral home's doors.
Ogle says Marlin has developed a special relationship with the train conductors who pass through downtown Woodstock.
"One of us opens the door wide open, and Marlin runs out and howls at the train. The conductors even know him," she said.
Now, Marlin is preparing for another reason to celebrate.
On October 17 from 11-1, Woodstock Funeral Home is throwing him a party for his eighth birthday. But instead of gifts for Marlin, organizers are encouraging guests to bring donations for animals at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter.
"We are asking people don't bring presents, but bring donations in honor of Marlin's birthday to the Cherokee County Animal Shelter," Ogle said.
Last year's celebration filled an entire truck with donated toys and leashes. Organizers hope this year's party will be just as successful in helping shelter animals.
For Ogle, Marlin's impact has gone far beyond what she initially envisioned when she brought him home.
"I don't know who he's better for anymore. Me and my staff or the families. But he is. He has brought so much joy to this, this building, this place, this funeral home," she said.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered from Woodstock Funeral Home location manager Paige Ogle, who provided details about Marlin's work as a therapy dog and his upcoming birthday donation drive for the Cherokee County Animal Shelter.