At Blount and Curry at Garden of Memories in Tampa, a unique therapy dog named Bella is transforming the traditional atmosphere of mourning. This five-year-old chocolate lab-whippet mix has become an integral part of the funeral home's approach to providing comfort and solace to those grieving the loss of loved ones.

"Bella has a remarkable ability to sense when someone needs her. Just by sitting next to them, she helps people feel more at ease during some of the hardest moments of their lives," says Kaylee Wilson, the general manager of the funeral home. Initially brought into the Wilson family as a pet, Bella's incredibly gentle disposition soon marked her as a perfect candidate for therapy work. After undergoing AKC Canine Good Citizen training and additional courses through the Humane Society, Bella became a certified therapy dog.

Bella's daily routine at Blount and Curry involves interacting with around 600 families each year who come for funeral services, as well as being a part of the approximately 1,200 burials at the cemetery. She often receives specific requests to attend visitations, where her presence provides a quiet reassurance to those gathered.

Wilson recalls a particular instance where Bella's calming presence was instrumental. "There was a woman who felt overwhelmed by the crowd at a service and had to step outside. Bella went right over to sit by her side, offering the comfort she needed without needing to be asked," she said. Bella’s intuitive nature allows her to provide support in a way that’s respectful and unobtrusive, making her an invaluable asset during services.

Beyond helping those in mourning, Bella also contributes significantly to the wellbeing of the funeral home staff. Working in such an environment can be emotionally demanding, and Bella offers a joyful diversion. "Employees often seek her out for a quick pet or a treat during tough days. She’s a bright spot for everyone here," Wilson notes. Bella is also known to keep spirits high during staff meetings and throughout daily operations, helping to foster a supportive workplace environment.

The inclusion of a therapy dog like Bella in a funeral home setting represents a broader shift towards more personalized and compassionate service in the industry. Traditionally slow to change, the funeral service sector is increasingly embracing practices that focus on celebrating life and providing genuine comfort to families during their time of loss. Bella’s role at the funeral home underscores this evolving approach, demonstrating the positive impact that therapy animals can have in such sensitive environments.

Bella not only assists during funeral services but also enhances the atmosphere of the cemetery itself. She accompanies Wilson on tasks and greets families visiting gravesites, providing a familiar, friendly presence that many find reassuring. "She likes to watch the cemetery’s daily activities from a safe distance, keeping everyone company in her own way," Wilson adds.

The success of Bella at Blount and Curry at Garden of Memories is prompting a reconsideration of traditional practices within the funeral industry, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating therapy animals into various service settings. Bella’s work shows how the presence of a calm, caring animal can help bridge the gap between professional services and the human need for empathy and connection, bringing a sense of peace and normalcy to places that are often filled with sorrow and grief.