Every Wednesday, a soft golden blur bounds through the doors of RMHC Toronto — it’s Ceili, the golden doodle, here to do what she does best: bring joy, comfort, and a few slobbery kisses to families facing some of the toughest times in their lives. 

Her human, Elizabeth Atack, walks beside her with a smile that says everything you need to know about why they’re here. A long-time volunteer with RMHC Toronto, Elizabeth first served on the front desk. It was there she met the late George Cohon, Founder of McDonald’s Canada and RMHC Toronto, who regularly brought his two therapy dogs, Annie and Chloe, to visit. 

“It was such a lovely sight,” Elizabeth recalls. “Watching the way those dogs connected with families, how much comfort they brought — it stayed with me.” 

So she did something extraordinary: she and Ceili became a certified therapy dog team and joined the PAWS (Pets At Work) program, which has been bringing canine companions to the House since 2004. After a pause during the pandemic, the program is back, and so are Elizabeth and Ceili — picking up right where they left off. 

While Ceili may not speak, her presence says it all. Her gentle demeanor, wagging tail, and unspoken understanding create a bridge between pain and comfort. Many families at the House are far from home, missing their own pets during moments when the familiar is what they crave most. Ceili steps in and fills that void — if only for a little while. 

“A dog’s love is unconditional,” says Elizabeth. “Many of the families staying at RMHC Toronto have had to leave their homes — and their beloved pets — behind so they can be close to the hospital. In the middle of such a stressful time, that absence is deeply felt. Hopefully, Ceili can help fill that void, even just a little, with the comfort and joy only a dog can give.” 

Their weekly visits aren’t just meaningful for the families — they’re uplifting for Elizabeth too. “Every week is different, and every week is heartwarming for Ceili and me. I leave every shift feeling energized. The families and staff are so positive and grateful. RMHC Toronto is a wonderful place to give your time.” 

According to research, therapy dogs like Ceili can help reduce stress, anxiety, and sadness — and when you see a child’s face light up at the sight of her, you don’t need science to confirm what you already know: this connection is real. It’s healing. It matters. 

And it’s all thanks to volunteers like Elizabeth and their four-legged companions who remind us that love — in all its forms — is the greatest comfort we can offer.