Loyal Golden Retriever Dog Accompanies His Owner Who Has Alzheimer's

Illustration of a golden retriever dog. A golden retriever dog named Skye faithfully accompanies its owner after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Illustration photo: Pexels.

JAKARTA - Aho's family saw their golden retriever, Skye, take on a new role after Donna Aho was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The 10-year-old dog became more sensitive, accompanied her on walks, and reacted when Donna had a night of shaking.

People in its report, quoted Monday, July 13, said the story was told by Aho's family to WDTV 5. Skye has had a strong bond with the family who live in North Dakota, USA, since he was a child.

"He ran in, knocked over a bowl of water and turned it upside down, then jumped right into my lap. At that moment I fell in love," said Donna's husband, Michael Aho, recalling his first meeting with Skye.

After Donna was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the family began to see Skye more sensitive to her condition. The dog became more attentive whenever Michael left the house.

"This dog knows, if I leave the house for any reason, he'll take care of my wife, Donna," Michael told WDTV 5.

Michael became more convinced after an incident in the middle of the night. At that time, Donna experienced tremors which were said to be related to her illness.

Michael was sleeping when Skye approached Donna's bed and barked so much that she woke up.

"He approached the side of Donna's bed and then barked. He woke Donna up," said Michael.

Skye also became Donna's walking companion. Michael admitted that he was worried that his wife would walk too far and get lost.

"I love walking, and Skye does too," Donna said. "My husband is afraid I'll walk too far and get lost. That never happens because Skye knows."

Aho's family adopted Skye about a decade ago through Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest, a nonprofit that rescues golden retrievers.

The organization's volunteer, Gretchen Austin, said Skye was previously rescued from a commercial breeding facility.

"Skye was rescued from a life in a commercial breeding facility. For the past 10 years, she has lived a very good life. We are very happy and proud to see her grow into such a good dog," Austin told WDTV 5.