Meet Sir Scout Von Doodle Dog
...although around here, everyone simply calls him Scout.
Professional Credentials
🐾 Director of Emotional Support & Spirit Relations
🐾 Chief Public Relations Officer
🐾 Vice President of Treat Acquisition
🐾 Television Personality — Doggy DNA, Season 6
🐾 Holder of Diplomatic Immunity
If you've spent any time around Nova Scotia, there's a chance we've already crossed paths.
You may have met Scout on one of our many mini vacations throughout Nova Scotia. Or perhaps locally in Winners, IKEA, a park, a coffee shop, an open house, or simply while we were out for a walk.
By now, I've learned that when Scout insists on saying hello to a complete stranger, there's usually a reason. Sometimes it leads to a conversation. Most often, it leads to a message from Spirit.
Looking back, Scout has introduced me to far more people than I could ever have introduced myself to.
When You're Coming for a Reading...
Don't be surprised if Scout is the first to welcome you.
He will say hello. He may settle nearby. He may decide that today, you're the one who needs a little extra comfort. He's very much part of the experience, and I have a feeling you're going to love him just as much as I do. He takes his welcoming duties very seriously... although he does like to think the couch rules don't always apply to him.
Over time, I've come to realize that Scout has his own quiet role in this work. Without ever being taught, he'll often rest his head on someone's lap when they need comfort. One of my favourite moments during a reading happens when Scout gets up, walks over to the back door, and barks once. He doesn't actually want outside. Around here, we like to say he's letting Spirit out.
One of the things I've noticed over time happens quietly during my readings. It seems that when we reach the very heart of why someone has come to see me—often the part of the reading that brings the greatest healing—Scout will move from your side and lie down and remain there for the rest of the session.
I didn't teach him to do this. In fact, I didn't even notice it at first. Over time, however, I realized he was doing it again... and again... and again. Now, whenever it happens, I find myself wondering, "What are we talking about right now?" Because, without fail, it always seems to coincide with the very reason that person was meant to be there. I no longer question whether he'll do it. I simply wait to see when.
The Day Scout Taught Me to Trust Him
One afternoon, Scout did something he had never done before.
During a group reading at my home, he insisted on climbing onto the couch beside one of my guests. He pawed gently at her underarm. Then nudged it with his nose. Then tried to lick the same spot.
I kept apologizing and telling him to leave her alone.
It was completely (okay, mostly) out of character.
Some time later, I received an email from that guest.
After the reading, she had her underarm checked.
She had lymphoma.
Thankfully, it was caught early.
To this day, I can't explain exactly what Scout knew.
I only know that I've learned to trust him in every way.
When He's Off Duty...
Scout is convinced that if he hides behind a cushion, I can't possibly see that he's on the couch.
He does have his own couch. And a bed. And an ottoman. He simply prefers my white couch.
During my morning meditation, he'll gently place his paws across my legs and settle in either beside me or in front of me, as though joining me in the stillness.
He loves long walks, squeaky toys, morning meditation, afternoon naps, and occasionally reminding me that the rules are merely suggestions.
He is equal parts wise old soul, human dog, professional greeter, comfort provider...
...and complete goofball.
And honestly...
I wouldn't have it any other way.