The community across Perth and Kinross is sharing heartfelt tributes following the passing of Craggan, the golden retriever whose gentle presence brought immense comfort and joy to children and families at CHAS Rachel House in Kinross. At the age of 13, Craggan’s eight years of dedicated service as a therapy dog left an indelible mark on countless lives within the hospice walls and beyond.
Craggan, described affectionately as “the goodest boy” by those who knew him, possessed an extraordinary temperament. His owner, Leigh Smith, often remarked that if Craggan were human, he’d embody the spirit of a true ‘hippy’ – an exceptionally laid-back and patient soul. This inherent calmness allowed him to thrive in his crucial role, tolerating everything from gentle pats to playful tugs on his ears and tail, or even children simply resting on him. This unwavering composure was fundamental to his ability to provide solace in the most challenging of circumstances. A Journey of Unconditional Love and Support
Craggan’s journey as a therapy animal began long before his time at Rachel House. Initially, he volunteered with Leigh at Raith Manor care home in Kirkcaldy, where his sweet nature quickly endeared him to residents and staff. It was a serendipitous conversation with another CHAS volunteer in their picturesque Perthshire village of Glenfarg that led Craggan to Rachel House. This marked a profound shift, initiating an eight-year tenure where his unconditional love became a cornerstone of care for seriously ill children and their families.
Within the comforting environment of Rachel House, Craggan became an integral part of the daily routine. He would gracefully move through the lounges, his golden fur a comforting sight, or stand patiently by bedsides, offering his silky head for gentle strokes. For many children, some hailing from nearby Perth or other parts of the region, Craggan provided a vital sense of normalcy. He helped numerous young patients overcome their fears of dogs, transforming apprehension into moments of tender connection and even laughter. His presence was particularly cherished by siblings, who often missed the familiarity and companionship of their own pets while at the hospice. Intuitive Comfort in Darkest Hours
Leigh recalls countless poignant moments that underscored Craggan’s unique ability to connect with those in distress. “Sometimes we were there for children’s last days,” she shared, highlighting the immense emotional weight of their visits. She vividly remembers one instance where Craggan sat as close as possible to a grieving father, who then turned to her, asking, “Does Craggan get special training to know when people are sad?” Leigh’s simple, profound answer – that Craggan “just knew” – encapsulated his extraordinary empathy. He offered a silent, non-judgmental presence, a warm, soft form to lean against, providing comfort when words were inadequate or impossible. This innate understanding made him an invaluable source of solace for families navigating unimaginable grief.
Craggan’s retirement late last year was marked by a moving farewell ceremony at Rachel House. He was showered with affection and gifts, including a hamper brimming with well-deserved treats and toys. Play assistant Becky Williamson prepared a special presentation, a heartfelt compilation of his most cherished interactions with children and families over the years. Another play assistant, Lisa Hunter, penned a touching poem titled ‘The Goodest Boy,’ a beautiful tribute to his gentle spirit and the profound, positive impact he had on everyone. Becky Williamson expressed the hospice’s deep gratitude, stating, “We are so thankful to Craggan for his long service and send our heartfelt condolences to his adoring owners, Leigh and Gordon. He was such a special boy who will be so missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
His spirit of community and care extended beyond the hospice. Craggan even left his mark, quite literally, by contributing his pawprint to one of the distinctive cow sculptures that formed part of last summer’s Hairy Highland Coo Trail, a beloved local art and fundraising initiative benefiting CHAS.
Craggan’s enduring legacy serves as a powerful testament to the transformative bond between humans and animals. His work, facilitated by the Canine Concern Scotland Trust, underscores the vital role that therapy pets and dedicated volunteers play in providing comfort and fostering well-being. This heartwarming story may inspire other dog owners throughout Perthshire and the wider region to explore how their own beloved companions might offer similar support to those in need, continuing Craggan’s incredible work through the Trust.
Craggan, described affectionately as “the goodest boy” by those who knew him, possessed an extraordinary temperament. His owner, Leigh Smith, often remarked that if Craggan were human, he’d embody the spirit of a true ‘hippy’ – an exceptionally laid-back and patient soul. This inherent calmness allowed him to thrive in his crucial role, tolerating everything from gentle pats to playful tugs on his ears and tail, or even children simply resting on him. This unwavering composure was fundamental to his ability to provide solace in the most challenging of circumstances. A Journey of Unconditional Love and Support
Craggan’s journey as a therapy animal began long before his time at Rachel House. Initially, he volunteered with Leigh at Raith Manor care home in Kirkcaldy, where his sweet nature quickly endeared him to residents and staff. It was a serendipitous conversation with another CHAS volunteer in their picturesque Perthshire village of Glenfarg that led Craggan to Rachel House. This marked a profound shift, initiating an eight-year tenure where his unconditional love became a cornerstone of care for seriously ill children and their families.
Within the comforting environment of Rachel House, Craggan became an integral part of the daily routine. He would gracefully move through the lounges, his golden fur a comforting sight, or stand patiently by bedsides, offering his silky head for gentle strokes. For many children, some hailing from nearby Perth or other parts of the region, Craggan provided a vital sense of normalcy. He helped numerous young patients overcome their fears of dogs, transforming apprehension into moments of tender connection and even laughter. His presence was particularly cherished by siblings, who often missed the familiarity and companionship of their own pets while at the hospice. Intuitive Comfort in Darkest Hours
Leigh recalls countless poignant moments that underscored Craggan’s unique ability to connect with those in distress. “Sometimes we were there for children’s last days,” she shared, highlighting the immense emotional weight of their visits. She vividly remembers one instance where Craggan sat as close as possible to a grieving father, who then turned to her, asking, “Does Craggan get special training to know when people are sad?” Leigh’s simple, profound answer – that Craggan “just knew” – encapsulated his extraordinary empathy. He offered a silent, non-judgmental presence, a warm, soft form to lean against, providing comfort when words were inadequate or impossible. This innate understanding made him an invaluable source of solace for families navigating unimaginable grief.
Craggan’s retirement late last year was marked by a moving farewell ceremony at Rachel House. He was showered with affection and gifts, including a hamper brimming with well-deserved treats and toys. Play assistant Becky Williamson prepared a special presentation, a heartfelt compilation of his most cherished interactions with children and families over the years. Another play assistant, Lisa Hunter, penned a touching poem titled ‘The Goodest Boy,’ a beautiful tribute to his gentle spirit and the profound, positive impact he had on everyone. Becky Williamson expressed the hospice’s deep gratitude, stating, “We are so thankful to Craggan for his long service and send our heartfelt condolences to his adoring owners, Leigh and Gordon. He was such a special boy who will be so missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
His spirit of community and care extended beyond the hospice. Craggan even left his mark, quite literally, by contributing his pawprint to one of the distinctive cow sculptures that formed part of last summer’s Hairy Highland Coo Trail, a beloved local art and fundraising initiative benefiting CHAS.
Craggan’s enduring legacy serves as a powerful testament to the transformative bond between humans and animals. His work, facilitated by the Canine Concern Scotland Trust, underscores the vital role that therapy pets and dedicated volunteers play in providing comfort and fostering well-being. This heartwarming story may inspire other dog owners throughout Perthshire and the wider region to explore how their own beloved companions might offer similar support to those in need, continuing Craggan’s incredible work through the Trust.