Darby Stephenson

Age: 11 years

Breed: Golden Retriever

Status: Angel

Received Wings: October 2023

Dear Friends,

It is with very sad hearts that my husband and I report the passing yesterday of our dear, sweet, loyal and fun-loving pup, Darby.  As you may recall, he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma of his right front leg nearly a year ago.  At the time, it was predicted his lifespan would be 2-3 months but through a chemo-like treatment at Blue Pearl Specialty Veterinarian Hospital in Tampa, his time was prolonged to our wonderful surprise.  Though his activities were abbreviated, he still kept his special spirit until the end.  He and I both truly missed our wonderful therapy team where special memories were made.  And for that, we thank each of you.

Toni and Garry

To say 10-year-old Darby is a dedicated people pooch is an understatement. Never was this more evident than on a visit to an independent living center in The Villages where they approached a man sitting alone with a sad, faraway look on his face. Darby responded by sitting on the man’s feet and leaning against his legs. Once over his surprise, the man smiled broadly and started petting Darby, saying, “He’s sitting on my feet!” To which Toni replied, “That’s how he shows his affection, Leaning on you is his version of a hug.” Another wide, beaming smile and more pets created one truly memorable experience for three.

Toni and Darby walk twice a day, morning and evening. In the evening, they walk with three other dogs and their moms, and this canine quartet is so well known in the neighborhood that some of the neighbors come out to give them treats, which, of course, the dogs love. It’s such an established ritual that if one of the dogs is absent for one reason or another, Darby will stand in their driveway with a quizzical look as if saying, “Hey, I’m here. Where are you?”

He’s so sweetly social that whenever one of his doggy friends comes in the door on a leash with his/her mom, he takes their leash in his mouth, ushers them grandly into the house with a proud grin on his face, and leads them directly to the treat jar!

Darby has a GREAT love for children. During his walks, if he hears them speaking or sees them playing, he immediately pulls Toni toward them with his long tail and whole body wagging in excitement! Because of this, Toni relishes the prospect of going into schools to work with and help children, whatever the age, whatever the challenge, because she knows how positively an empathetic dog like Darby can impact their lives.

Training/Certifications:
Basic Manners
Canine Good Citizen
Hearts of Gold Therapy team

Watch our Hearts of Gold Therapy Teams in action:  Hearts of Gold YouTube channel

To learn more about how your dog can be part of the Hearts of Gold Therapy Team go to our Volunteer section of this webpage.